Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

I open my burning eyes. Tears blur my vision as I try to forget the images from my latest nightmare. My boys…my poor boys…“I will bring you both back”, I promise…for over the 100th time. Shaking off my thoughts, I get ready for the day mentally ticking off my checklist for my trip to Japan. The first truly big nuisance since Dick Roman, this Kira, was killing off criminals left and right.

It was not my typical case but something about Kira’s requirements of killing was supernatural. He needed a name and face to kill. With just those, he could kill anyone from anywhere. Which human could do that? And even if they could, the means had to be supernatural. Perhaps they made a demon deal, or Kira used a cursed object. Not only that, there was perhaps someone else with Kira’s power who only needed a face to kill. 3 Japanese police officers dropped dead during a TV broadcast- names unknown.

The world’s security agencies were stumped. The number 1 detective in the world, L, was working on it but even he hadn’t been able to put a stop to Kira's killings till now. I could only assume it was because of the supernatural factor. Which made it my responsibility. What the hell those Japanese hunters were doing I didn’t know- and I couldn’t find out because not many hunters trusted my little Team Free Will after the whole opening of the Devil’s Gate, starting the Apocalypse and releasing the Leviathans into the world. Couldn’t blame them tbh.

It did make this whole investigation pretty hard though. If only Sam was here…This was my problem. I had become so tangled up with the Winchesters that it was impossible for me to not think about them for more than 10 minutes. I was on my own now. Alone. A lone wolf. And I was about to feel like absolute shit once I landed in Japan and my social awkwardness came out to play in a foreign country whose language I wasn't familiar with. Fingers crossed.

—One plane ride later—

First stop, Wakoucha at the airport cafe. Overpriced but worth every yen. After a couple of sips, I got my bearings and hauled ass to the hotel the FBI director set me up at. Presidential suite, of course. Exorcising a demon outta his brother would go a long way.

A ping on my laptop draws my attention. A video call from the guy himself. Answering it, I say, “Hey, I just got to—” when he makes a shushing gesture. I pipe down, curious to see what he’s on about. He holds up a piece of paper for me to read. Surprisingly, I can read it perfectly. Which means someone must have taken the pain to write it inverted. There’s no doubt what it is. At my nod, he promptly sets fire to the paper with a lighter, gives me a thumbs up and ends the call.

Well, then. No time to waste.

I change into the charming suit that makes me look like a cinnamon roll, idiots never see it coming when I gank them. All geared up I go to my FBI-issued car (I miss Baby) and head up to meet the famous L and the officially “disbanded” taskforce.

—Time Skip—

The building is quite ordinary from the outside. The same old grey skyscraper with the corporate soul-sucking vibe. Somewhere inside there is a group of people with whom I will be catching a killer with supernatural powers. L’s right-hand man was informed of my arrival and he was waiting for me right as I step in the doors. He’s completely covered from head to toe so that I cannot even get one glimpse of his skin. The only thing I can say is he’s tall. The dude’s just standing there until I clear my throat and speak, “Verification?”. Nodding, he starts-“Jefferson” and I finish-“Starship”.

Codes confirmed, he wordlessly leads me down the lobby. The security inside is no joke. When the detectors beep, he gestures to me to upturn my pockets. Knowing there’s no way out of this, I take out the couple of guns and knives I had on me. He even confiscates my mobile phone. The holy water’s filled in a disposable plastic bottle so I can easily take it past the checkpoint. No way I could’ve broken in here on my own. I can’t help but feel like a dumb kid who doesn’t know the hell she’s doing. Before, with Sam and Dean, it was just natural to feel confident and self-assured. I try to channel some of that right now and attempt to make conversation. “Call me Anne (Pick your fake name). Pleased to meet you. How’s the case coming along sir? Any new leads since we last talked?” To my credit, my voice only wavers for 5 seconds max. The guy gives me a side glance but doesn’t respond. Not to be discouraged any more than I already am, I barrel on. “So I’ve been following this case like everybody and I already have a couple of theories- I can’t share them yet- but I’d like to ask you something about L. I’ve heard he’s a bit…moody and I don’t want to butt heads with him on the investigation or make him feel like I’m taking over. Any words of advice on how to make this smooth sailing?”

Silence. Fine then. I’ve already given too much power to him. Now it’s time to be all tough and laconic myself. We take the elevator and stop several floors up. My heart is fluttering as a tall dude leads me to a set of doors and just throws them open. Every head snaps my way. Well, shit.

I flashback to 1st grade when I changed schools. The teacher was mean and made me stand in front of the class and introduce myself. I hated her then and I hate the tall dude now. I turn to glare at him to find out he’s already left. Turning to face my audience, I wave and give a sheepish smile. I know I just look like a dork. God, what’s wrong with me? When did I suddenly become a schoolgirl? These guys will never take me seriously now. Damn it.

I jump when a voice pulls me out of my self-criticism, “Who are you? How did you get in?” It’s a guy about Bo…60 years old pointing a gun at me. Nearly everyone is except a couple of boys. I start to answer but another voice cuts me off. A warm, gravelly, soothing voice. “She’s our newest member.” It takes me a moment to realize the speaker is this cute little weirdo sitting in a big chair in front of a gigantic screen. Seriously, just wow. A moment of appreciation is required here. This guy is soooooo cute. I drink in his features- his big bambi eyes, his chaotic raven hair that I long to feel, his perfect mouth as he pops in a marshmall- “We have to tolerate her for now as the FBI has forced her upon us”, the said mouth pipes up. And just like that my fantasies take a sharp turn and I see my fist connecting with his teeth and his perfect mouth bloody.

Feeling sufficiently insulted, I snark back, “Shut the hell up, asshole. Like I’m thrilled to be forced to work with a bunch of incompetent jackasses who haven’t been able to catch a pathetic killer in months. The headquarters had to send in a babysitter to mind the greatly overrated L. Make sure you give me the case report before you choke to death stuffing your cakehole and do Kira’s work for him.”

His eyes narrow and I ain’t backing down. Let’s show him who’s boss.

Chapter Text

“So you’re joining our team today? Glad to have you here. I’m Matsui!”, someone speaks puppy-like from my left side. I can’t see who as my eyes are still fixed on the douchebag in front of me. Others notice this as the boy to the left of the weirdo shakes him causing him to break eye contact and hand me the win.

I smirk charmingly at the boy and purr, “Thanks for that.” He goes wide-eyed for a moment before averting his gaze and mumbling something like, “No problem”. The boy and this weirdo are joined by handcuffs, what’s this? Glancing around the room, I see their team has a total of 5 members, excluding the tall dude from earlier- the weirdo, the goofball, the wide-eyed maiden, one old dude (from the police I guess), and a stoic dude that reminds me of Cas. I squint, wondering if he really isn’t an angel. Nope, there's no recognition in his eyes and let's be real, no angel would be indifferent to me after the mayhem I've caused with the Winchesters.

The old guy walks up to me and brings his hand out to shake. “I’m Asahi, a member of L’s team to catch Kira. The young man behind me is Moji, that’s my son Light and you already know L and Matsui. And you are?”

“I go by the name Anne. The higher-ups have sent me to take charge of the Kira investigation alongside L. I’m hoping you all cooperate and make this easier for everyone.”

The goofball starts to cheer to catch Kira when L interrupts him in a bored monotone, “Control yourself, Matsui. She will not be leading the investigation with me. However, to appease the FBI, she may observe the case without hindering my work.”

Flashing a saccharine-sweet smile, I stride over to his chair and rest my hands on its arms. He’s sitting with his legs pulled up to his chest so I feel like I’m cornering a small child. Steeling myself, I stare him down once again and whisper, “Listen up buttercup. I’m here and I’m leading this case with you. Tough. You have been working on it for almost a year and have only found out that Kira is in Kanto, Japan. You’ve got 12 FBI agents, 3 civilians, and 3 Japanese police officers dead- not counting the shit-ton of criminals that is. People are pissed, and they want results. Now I’m not saying you’re incompetent; your track record proves otherwise. But this is a big case and you’re stuck here. So stop being prideful and accept that you need the damn help.”

The room is so quiet when I stop speaking that I’m sure they must’ve heard every word I said. As I’m waiting for a sign that I’ve gotten through L’s thick skull, I see something in his expression change. Instead of being cold, his eyes turn liquid. Warm. I feel as if I'm a kid again, wrapped in a blanket, drinking hot chocolate after playing in the rain for too long. My head starts to swim and all I want is to climb in a bed and curl up to sleep. The longing is so intense that I’m startled when something is pushed against my lips.

My eyes must have fluttered close because when I open them, Baby Bird is prodding at my mouth trying to force-feed me a marshmallow. I figure it’s a peace offering and open my mouth to eat the treat. He finally chirps, “Okay, you can...help. But Kira is dangerous and the team’s safety is important. You’re new here so do not make any moves without consulting me for a few days till you get familiar with the case. I cannot deal with another Matsui.” Matsui’s offended “Hey!” rings out confirming that everyone is eavesdropping.

“Seems fair. But I want to know everything about the case. No secrets.”

“No secrets”, he hesitatingly agrees.

Glad that this has been dealt with, my energy dips even further and I want to sit down except there’s nowhere to sit. Sensing my problem, the teenager, Light, offers me his chair and I shoot him a grateful look.

Time to address the team. “So guys, we’re a team now. I know you have been giving your best but this Kira is too smart. Having a fresh perspective may help move things along. I’m on your side and working together, we will catch this guy.”

As everyone is nodding, an old guy from before comes in with a trolley loaded with refreshments. Manners be damned, I jump up for tea- Indian Chai, score- and a couple of grilled sandwiches. As I settle down and start eating at a speed rivaling Dean’s, I meet Light’s amused glance. I gulp down some Chai and explain myself, “I haven’t had anything except some Wakoucha since I boarded the flight here. I’m a hungry, hungry hippo right now.” He just laughs good-naturedly and says, “Eat all you want. Watari is a really good cook.” Hearing his name, said Watari comes up to me, smiling. Something about how he walks is familiar and then it clicks. “You’re the mean guy who brought me here!” He shoots me an apologetic look and starts, “I’m sorry, Miss Anne. I had to know L’s decision regarding you before revealing myself or anything about the case. I hope you understand it was a necessary precaution.” “Well, all is forgiven if you keep making me your Chai.” The old man looks relieved and goes away chuckling, “Certainly, certainly.”

I turn back to Light and find him staring at me again. At my raised eyebrow, he points to me eating my 3rd sandwich. “You just don’t see girls here eat earnestly like that. Makes you quite the sight.” Well, I must be quite the sight. I’m certain I’ve got some mayo on my face. He’s smiling so he’s not making fun of me but I still slow down enough to eat like a civilized person. I see the rest of the guys whispering in a corner and shooting me concerned looks. No worry, I’ll win them over soon. “So what’s with the handcuffs?”, I finally ask. Light just shakes his head, “L will explain it soon.”

Speaking of L, I find him working diligently on the cake now and sending it such an adoring gaze that I almost crack a get-a-room joke. Dean and he could probably write ballads about the perfect pie. Having finished my sandwich, I clean my hands, grab a water bottle and drag my chair over to him.

“Howdy, partner! Can you get me up to speed now?”

Chapter Text

L doesn’t take his eyes off his cake till it’s all gone. Only then does he look up and open multiple files on the screen.

“Last October, I started the Kira investigation. Multiple criminals worldwide had been dying of mysterious heart attacks. The ICPO was at its wit’s end because it had no clue where to start. I dug in a little deeper and found that the first criminal to die of a heart attack was a person named Kurou Otoharada who was holding some hosta-”

“Yes, yes, sweetiepops. I saw your pissing contest. Viral everywhere. If that’s all, let’s move on.”

Sweetiepops looks annoyed at the interruption but continues. “I worked with the NPA as it was confirmed that Kira was in Kanto, Japan. We looked at the pattern of the deaths and found that they at night and on the weekends- an ideal time for a student. Just as we deduced that, the killings started happening every hour as if Kira was privy to our investigation and taunting us. There was a leak in the NPA so I called in 12 FBI agents in secret to Japan to investigate the NPA and their families.

On 14th December, they came in. On 19th December, Kira started experiments. Controlling the prisoner’s actions before they died.”

I cut in, “Hold on, controlling their actions how?”

“Raise your hand before you speak. Kira made one go to the bathroom, the other draw something and some others send messages to me. (Seeing me raise my hand, L’s voice turns exasperated. “Shh, I have the pictures, you can see them later. They seem nonsense to me but you can give them a look if you desire.”) On the 27th, all 12 FBI agents died of heart attacks. Before dying, they all had gotten the full list of all 12 FBI agents in Japan at random times. They also died at random times so there’s no way of finding out which FBI agent Kira used to kill all of them.

However, while looking at the footage of some of the agents' deaths that happened in public, one stood out from the rest. Raye Penber. He died after he got off a train and it seemed like- let me play the footage now and you can see for yourself.”

A video starts on the screen and as I turn to look at it, L turns to look at me. Like full-on staring with his thumb in his mouth. “Whatchoo doing, L?” 

“It’s not L, it’s Ryuzaki, for safety reasons. I want to assess your reaction to watching the video. Don’t mind me.”

“Riiiight.” Shaking my head, I pay attention to the screen. This Penber guy gets on the train, gets off around an hour and a half later and just hits the floor clutching his heart. But wait…is that…shock? His features are not too clear but I think they’re frozen in horror, disbelief. He’s looking at something- or someone- in the train, before it takes off and he drops dead. That’s something, but not all of it. “Hit rewind, Ryuzaki…that’s it, play now.” Where’d the envelope go?

“Any idea what was in the envelope? Or did he just conveniently forget it on the train?” I ask the room.

Asahi sits up straighter. “We noticed it but know nothing about it.”

“I’ll bet you anything that the names of your agents were in it. And Kira was on that train too. Someone Penber knew, and thought to be innocent, which explains the look of shock mingled with horror. Who was Penber investigating before the…experiments started?”

Asahi visibly pales. His voice trembles when he asks, “So you also think that someone Raye was investigating is Kira?”

“ Also , chief? So you’ve already worked this angle, huh? Tell me who’s our top star.”

“It’s me. Raye was investigating Deputy Director Kitamura’s and my family”, Light confesses, looking uncomfortable.

“But my son is cleared from suspicion, isn’t that right, Ryuzaki?”

“Yes, he was. But I think I best continue my explanation to help Miss Anne understand this better.

Upon noticing my suspicion that someone in NPA was causing the leak, several refused to work with me and only Asahi, Moji, Aihira, Matsui and Ukita stayed. Be quiet, Ukita-san is the one who passed away in front of Sakura TV, I’ll get to that. Anyway, they wanted deeper trust between us so I called them to my hotel and revealed my face to them. After we investigated the deaths of the 12 FBI agents, I came to the same conclusion as you and decided to install cameras and wiretaps in Yagami and Kitamura households. (My eyes widen in realization, prompting L to respond, “Yes, yes, he was Detective Superintendent Yagami, he resigned now, don’t use his real name.”) Everything was normal, but Light-kun was too normal. He was certainly intelligent enough to do the murders. I immediately became suspicious of him but even when he was studying right before my eyes, the deaths continued happening. After a few days of this, I had to remove the surveillance. 

Of course, the killings never stopped. So I decided to enter the same college as Light-kun and revealed myself as L to him. If he killed me now, the whole task force would know he was Kira. I conducted some tests and played a tennis match to determine if he was Kira but he avoided detection in all of them. Unfortunately, Asahi-san had a heart attack at the same time so I had to halt my investigation.

We also discovered Raye Penber’s fiance, Naomi Misora, an ex-FBI agent, had suddenly disappeared. I worked with her on a case before and know she wasn’t the suicidal type. Which means she was investigating Kira on her own and Kira had killed her. 

Few days later, Sakura TV played the tape from Kira. I’m assuming you saw that?”

“The whole fiasco right to the end of the whole patriotic police blockade.”

“Ukita-san had rushed there to stop the broadcast and was killed immediately. Same happened to the other two police officers. Lucky for us, Asahi-san broke in using an armored truck to protect his identity, recovered all the tapes and stopped the broadcast. We sent the tapes for forensics in hopes to find Kira’s DNA or some clue. We listened to the tapes afterward and the gist was this- police agree to comply with Kira and all the policemen including myself appear on TV as insurance. If we didn’t comply or failed to broadcast the names of criminals on TV regularly, he would kill the Director of NPA unless the real L revealed his identity on TV. 

Based on those tapes, I surmised that this Kira was not the original Kira. The original Kira only killed the criminals or those actively hunting him like the FBI agents. Those newscasters were of no threat to him. Furthermore, Ukita and those two police officers died immediately even though their names were secret which meant this Kira only needed a face to kill. Also, a direct threat was not Kira’s style- he wanted a peaceful world with adoring people, and this move would make them hate him. So I contacted Light-”

I jump and push L behind me as a screech filled the air. Taking a defensive stance, my eyes fell on the door to see a blur of glittery pink and yellow barreling right at me.

“OHMYGOD!!! We’re going to be best friends foreverrrrrrrrr!!!!!!!!!”

Chapter Text

There were no banshees, only a hyper girl whose voice was so sugary and shrill that I would’ve preferred a banshee over her.

“I just found out that there’s a girl here. You are so pretty, we can totally braid each other's hair and paint nail polish and watch romcoms and talk about boys.” She dragged Light by the arm and continued without taking a breath, “This is my boyfriend, isn’t he cute? He’s so handsome. We’re totally in love.” To me, Light looked totally in pain. Didn’t mention that though. “Do you have a boyfriend? You can totally tell me about him and we can go on double dates. Oooh, we can go shopping. YAY!!! You would look great in pink, it’s totally your-”

L finally emerged from behind me and told Light to take the nuisance away. Exact words. 

The chatterbox went into screech mode again. “You are being mean Ryuzaki! She is my new friend, isn’t that right?” At which point, she skipped to me and linked our arms together. 

Light laughed nervously and pulled her away from me. “Anne, this is Misa. She’s staying here.”

“Of course I am. I cannot stay away from the Light of my life.”

I only manage an awkward smile and congratulate her for snatching a boyfriend. She beams happily at me as if I’ve just ordained their wedding. The rest of the team is huddled together looking really embarrassed and one hundred percent done. All of them keep glancing at L as if silently praying to him to get rid of her. Which he does.

“Misa, Miss Anne is here to join the task force and we’re in the middle of a briefing. Perhaps you should go now and meet her later after this is done when she can give you her full attention?”

My scowl has no effect on L except making him smirk. Cocky bastard.

Misa does a happy little dance when I nod and leaves the room skipping. Everyone except Matsui makes sounds like deflated balloons.

L continues the briefing. “As I was saying, I brought Light in and asked him to watch the tapes as well. If he were Kira, he would say nothing and I would have to appear on TV to save the Director of NPA. But he told me he suspected a second Kira too at which point I asked him to pose as Kira and send a message to the second Kira. It worked. The second Kira backed off and send another tape in response saying they adored Kira and would do anything he said. There was some other nonsense thrown in as well as a diary entry listing various dates and places. Obviously, the second Kira had placed some clue to let the real Kira know the date and location of the meeting. 

We agreed to send members of the task force undercover and scout the place for anyone suspicious. One of the places listed was Aoyoma on the 22nd. Matsui and Light went there and reported everything to be okay. However, on the 23rd, we received a tape from the second Kira saying that they’d found the real Kira. My suspicions about Light increased. We broadcasted a tape in response advising the second Kira to stay away from the real Kira as he was highly dangerous. The next day, the second Kira sent a thank you tape to the police for their concern.

This response was so uncharacteristic of the second Kira and I was sure the real and second Kira had made contact. This meant the real Kira could use the powers of the second Kira and I was most likely to be killed. If that happened, I informed the task force to believe that Light is Kira. 

The forensics results came back and the DNA matched that of Misa Amane, a model and Light’s girlfriend. Yes, that girl. I went to Light’s college where Miss Amane was arrested. To keep the public from panicking, we used the cover of illegal drug possession. She was kept here under surveillance during which time she barely spoke a word. A few days later, she started pleading with us to kill her. She screamed and thrashed. Then, something strange happened.”

Throughout his monologue, I had gradually started leaning forwards but hearing this, my back went straight and my ears perked up, like a hound on a trail. 

“Miss Amane’s whole demeanor changed and she started calling me a pervert, a stalker. She assumed she had been taken by a crazy fan and had no recollection of Kira. When asked about Light, instead of staying silent like before, she openly admitted that he was her boyfriend. We were baffled by this behavior. 

Light-kun came in then and offered to go under surveillance as he suspected himself to be acting as Kira subconsciously. Asahi-san could not bear his son undergoing this and went into solitary himself. We monitored all three of them. For 2 weeks, the Kira killings stopped. The whole team was certain that Light was certainly Kira when they started again. 2 weeks’ worth of criminals were killed in one day. It appeared Kira was just on vacation. Right after that, in complete opposite to his previous request to be confined, Light begged to be free saying he was not Kira. His behavior had changed just as suddenly as Misa Amane's.

After 50 days of their confinement, I bowed to the team’s pressure and prepared a final trap to prove Misa Amane and Light were Kiras. I had Asahi-san take both of them in a car to a secluded spot saying they were convicted of being Kira and he was going to shoot Light and then himself. If Misa Amane was the second Kira, she only needed a face to kill and with her devotion to Light, she would kill Asahi on the spot. Kira is also ruthless and would not hesitate to kill his own father. But nothing happened even when Asahi fired a blank. 

I had to clear them both of suspicion but I joined Light and myself via handcuffs so I could keep an eye on him. Since then, Light-kun has joined the investigation with much enthusiasm to catch Kira as he wants to clear his name and get revenge for all the trouble his father has endured. We moved to this building which has cameras and wiretaps in every room. Miss Amane is staying here under surveillance still. 

Recently, Kira bribed some politicians who forced the police to abandon the Kira investigation. All members resigned from the police to continue with the investigation except Aihira who has a young family to think of. Light had been looking at some numbers and found that the Yotsuba group has seen exponential growth in fortune and their competitors a decline. Several of their rivals have died as well, of causes other than heart attacks. The police haven’t caught up on this but it is Kira, which means he can kill with means other than a heart attack. That also explains where he got the money to pay the bribes.

I think that this is a new Kira. The old Kira only killed criminals. This one kills criminals to maintain cover and kills his rivals or kills his ally, Yotsuba’s, rivals for profit. The old Kira hasn’t stopped this which can only mean he’s inactive for some reason. We are now investigating Yotsuba to determine the identity of the new Kira and the method of killing.

That’s it.”

Chapter Text

It’s pin-drop silence in the room while I think about everything L’s told me. I feel his eyes on me again, probably assessing my reaction. The guy seems pretty sure that Light is Kira. And a lot of evidence has also pointed to it but Light always got off the hook at the last minute. Is he Kira? The guy looks human. He touched the silverware earlier so not a shape-shifter or a werewolf. Did the guy make a demon deal then? Get the power to rid the world of criminals? But how did he lose it if someone else has the same power now? Did he get scared and give it up? Nah, the guy should be smart enough to realize that wouldn’t save him from hellhounds. So what was it? Where is the power coming from?  And what about Misa? The girl’s certainly crazy enough to do anything. But would she do this? And why? Add it to the to-do.

Anne’s Kira To-do

• Learn basic Japanese
• Go to Moon’s bar
• Research Light
• Find the motive for Misa being Kira
• Find how the Kira power works
• Find the source of the power

“Are you taking questions now, your supreme bossiness?”

At L’s nod, I start. “Do you have a strong intuition, evidence notwithstanding, that Light and Misa are- or were- the Kiras?”

After a pause, there’s another nod. “Yes, I do.”

“Has at any point during the investigation something strange happened? Except your suspects suddenly going from silent soldiers to chatty Cathys? Anything strange or unusual.”

“Yes, one thing. A person has been killing criminals worldwide by knowing just their names and faces, sometimes faces only. That’s very unusual.”

“Ha ha. Real comedian, you.

In the last year, have any of you guys felt strange? Like someone’s watching you, you get cold suddenly somewhere, or you smell something strange- like sulfur or ozone, or lights flickers on and off?”

Everyone looks confused and they all shake their heads “no” in unison. So no ghosts or demonic possession.

“What about someone with black, or red, or yellow- or any sort of unusual eyes?”

Matsui looks bewildered. “What? How is any of that relevant?”

“Well, there is a serial killer that roams around with weird eye contacts to look unique. You seen someone?”

“Um, interesting. But no.”

Huh, nothing here. Looks like I’ll be starting from zero. Hopefully, local hunters will have something useful to share.

“Alright Ryuzaki, I want access to all files including photos and footage on my laptop so I can comb through everything. I’ll bring it over from my car downstairs.”

“No, you can’t have these files on your personal device. I’d prefer it if you view them on my screen. If it’s really important, I’ll give you a secure laptop which cannot leave this building. You will not be able to use the internet on it or make any transfers.”

“Fine, I’ll just use my personal laptop for surfing the web. Now that you know I’m on your side, can you call Watari and tell him to return my stuff?”

“You mean your guns and knives?”

“I mean my guns and knives and my phone. Self-defense is important for those of us who do real work in the field, you know?”

L opens his mouth to make a retort when Light jumps up, “I’ll call Watari now.”

The guy seems alright; he must be a really good actor to be Kira and put on this show.

“So the head office said I’d be living with you guys? I hope there’s a fancy ass room with a king-sized bed and a joined giant bath booked for me.”

“We can put you on Misa-Misa’s floor, she’d really like that”, offers Matsui.

Ryuzaki is quick to agree angelically just as I shout, “No, that’s fine!”

I hastily add, “Misa is great, but I want her and Light to have privacy. I insist.”

Matsui blushes at the implication, “O-oh, that’s thoughtful.”

Watari walks in with a bag and I see all my stuff inside. I quickly unlock my phone and there it is. As usual, my shoulders drop with relief. L’s noticed my reaction and is looking curiously at my phone. I shove it in my pocket and ask Watari to show me my room before there are any questions.

I pause at the door to shout, “Get the laptop ready latest by tomorrow morning, Ryuzaki. Won’t tolerate any delays”, and leave without hearing his reply.

—-----------------------------------------------------

The room Watari showed me was less of a room and more of a big 1 BHK. After giving me a map of the building and permission to call him whenever I needed anything, he left me alone. Unable to resist the call of the bed, I collapsed on top of it. There were so many things to work on here and no one to help. Working with partners was how I operated for years and operating solo made me feel… handicapped. Kira was no joke and finding him while protecting the team was going to burn me out. It was not like I had a savior waiting in the wings. No, he was probably enjoying lazy days with his newfound love. I admit he deserves peace, he’s had a hard life. Still, it hurt that I wasn’t reason enough to stay. 

Not wanting to continue that line of thought, I go out to bring stuff from my car. Watari’s already added me to the system so I can come and go as I please. It’s strange, the whole building gives an eerie feel. So big and empty. Can’t help but compare it to abandoned asylums haunted by spirits except this place is brand new. Looks like Japan’s Big Brother is rich too.

Getting in the car, I take it to the building’s garage. Majority of the weapons will stay in the car while I take some upstairs. I’ll have to be smart about placing them because L will be guaranteed to monitor me for a few days. Grabbing my duffles, I head back upstairs in the elevator wanting nothing more than food and sleep. Everything else can wait until tomorrow.

The elevator stops before my floor and a pale hand pulls me out. Before I twist it, the offender registers and I’m being dragged toward the briefing room. I’m in for it now.

“There you are, Anne. I’ve convinced everyone to have dinner in the briefing room now and we’re all just waiting for you. I’d rather it just be 2 of us but Matsui seemed to want to know you too so I thought if you don’t have a boyfriend, you can probably date him but he’s always so nervous so I organized this group dinner for his benefit. You’ll fall in love with him, just you see.”

My last thought before she opens the doors is a desperate wish.

Please let her be Kira so I can kill her.

Chapter Text

A table has been brought in and everyone is assembled in chairs around them. There are 2 serving trays emitting steam and delicious aromas. Mouth watering, I shake off Misa and head towards the food. To my disappointment, I recognize none of it except rice with fish which I can’t eat.

Watari greets me, “What shall I serve for you, Miss? I imagine you must be quite hungry.” 

I puff up my cheeks and shrug, “I’m vegetarian, is there anything in here I can eat?”

“Oh, we did not know that. I’m sorry. Well, you can have some tea and cake. There are also grilled rice balls with soy sauce. The rest of it contains meat, I’m afraid. I could make some ramen if you’d like. Won’t take 10 minutes.”

“Ramen sounds good. Just point me to the kitchen and I’ll make it myself. You can get started on dinner here.”

“That’s kind of you but it’s no trouble. This dinner is for you after all. Please start eating and I’ll bring your ramen shortly.”

Nodding, I get a cup of tea and a couple of those rice balls. Everyone has already started eating. L has got his own trolley loaded with sweets and it’s half-empty by now. Misa has made herself very comfortable on Light’s lap while the dude looks as uncomfortable as Dean in shorts. She’s chatting away at him at lightspeed. Wanting to avoid that area, I move to the other side of the table to find the only empty seat beside Matsui. If I take that one, Misa will never shut up about it. Lord…I need booze. Now. Except there’s not a drop in sight. Is this some kind of freak alcohol-free zone? Sure, Light and Misa are underage and L doesn’t look like he’d handle liquor well but what about the grown-ups? Surely they drank. Chief seems a little holier-than-thou to ask and since I’m avoiding Matsui for now, that leaves Moji. Finishing my plate, I head over to him.

“Hi Moji, enjoying dinner?” 

He looks startled at my appearance but recovers quickly, “Sure, Miss Anne. Are you?”

“I’d enjoy it a lot more if I had something to wash it down with,” I whisper.

“There’s always more tea.”

“Come on, man. I’m talking about the strong stuff. Where’d you keep that stash?”

Moji looks scandalized. “We don’t drink here. Everything is non-alcoholic.”

“Well, I cannot be non-alcoholic. I’ll get my own stuff if you don’t have any.”

Ignoring his offended gasp, I head over to my duffle bag and get my wallet filled with Yen. There’s nothing more I want to do than eat and sleep but my dinner is only riceballs and ramen. Shopping for lots of junk food, and alcohol too, will go a long way to keep my sanity. Seeing me heading out, Misa calls after me, “You can’t leave! You haven’t even talked to me or eaten anything!”

“I’m just doing a quick beer run 'cause you guys don’t have any. Be back in 20.”

“Oh, okay. But hurry. I’ll save some cake for you before Ryuzaki eats it all.”

Hearing the threat to his cake, L calmly proclaims, “Watari will bring more from the kitchen for her. This is mine. Hands off, Misa.”

Listening to their fading bickering sounds with Light trying to keep the peace, I feel my lips curl up. They are just children. One is the world’s greatest detective and the two could be serial killers with no memories of it. Introducing them to the world of monsters could be the last straw on the camel’s back. Especially L. The guy relies on logic and facts- knowing that something is beyond his control can crack his brain. Great, I’m already worried about the little weirdo. Blame his stupid eyes and stupid hair and stupid lips. Slippery slope. Screw beer, we’re going with wine tonight.

—---------------------------------------------------------------

The room seems livelier when I get back. I hand the bags to Watari after taking out a bag of chips and a bottle of wine for myself. “Please help yourself and others to whatever you like. Unload the rest in the kitchen. Also, can I have a glass for my drink?” He nods and points towards a steaming bowl of spicy-looking ramen which I make a beeline for saying, “Thanks, Watari!” His answering chuckle fades away as it’s just me and the food now. After slurping down almost half the bowl in minutes, cause it’s freaking delicious, the conversation around me registers. 

Misa is calling L a pervert because he won’t uncuff Light even for their date. Why does L want to be the third wheel with those two if they’re Kiras is beyond…no wait. I understand. Maybe he’s hoping they’ll play 20 criminals on their dates. Hehe. I’m hilarious, I think. Flashes of dumb jokes, late nights, and stupid, deep-belly laughter pass through my mind. Gut-wrenching pain follows, guilt right on the heels. Swallowing becomes difficult so I drain the entire wine glass in one go.

“I have nothing against alcohol but if you’re an alcoholic , you must leave the team.”

Fixing L with my best glare, I snap, “Says the addict. Go to sugar-rehab yourself before giving me ultimatums.”

“I’m not addicted to sugar. I can stop anytime I want. I don’t because sugar helps me think.”

“I’m not addicted to alcohol. I can stop anytime I want. I don’t because alcohol helps me tolerate you.”

“You barely know me.”

“ You barely know me and you’ve already labeled me an alcoholic.”

“You drained the glass in one go.”

“I had difficulty swallowing.”

“Ah, my apologies. So you’re not an alcoholic. Just someone who doesn’t know how to eat. No problem. Shall I instruct Watari to cut up your food into small pieces for you? He can spoon-feed you, too.”

I want to scream and tear my hair out. I want to scream and tear his hair out. 

Except there’s no scorn in L’s eyes, just concern. Looking at him, I realize his words are genuine and well-meaning. There’s no doubt he’s socially awkward. Must have trouble with many things. And now he’s taking my words at face value and trying to help me. To my horror, my eyes start stinging. Figuring hugs wouldn’t be well received just yet , I settle for a genuine, bright smile. L looks alarmed and I tone it down so I don’t resemble the Joker.

“Thank you, L- Ryuzaki. But it was just a one-time thing. My mind was elsewhere so…don’t worry about me.”

“Hm. Be careful so you don’t choke to death stuffing your cakehole and do Kira’s work for him.”

There’s that barely-there smile again with a twinkle in Bambi eyes.

Pitter-patter goes my ticker. 

---------------------------------------------------------------------

Despite the dinner being in my honor, nobody pays much attention to me except L. Throughout the meal, we keep looking at each other, not even trying to hide it. There are so many questions I want to ask him but none of them are related to the case. I want to know where he grew up and what his favorite sweet is and does he watch movies or not. Though he is a smart-ass, his voice is better than any ASMR I’ve tried. It’d be impossible for me to get tired of listening to him when he’s not being a little shit obviously. 

At some point, the food and wine are all gone and I’m just sitting looking at him. He’s doing the same so I don’t feel terribly self-conscious. His tilted head makes him look even more adorable. I should be taking the time to know more about the team but I’m beat right now. In preparation for coming here, a lot of security had to be reviewed and installed back home. My absence was dangerous but the Kira case needs solving. I almost didn’t want to come but staying under the radar was hard when I was in the States. Hopefully, they’d just figure I’d gone deep underground with my precious cargo, prepared to strike. Although I was confident everything would be fine, it was impossible not to worry. On top of that, the 14 hours flight to Tokyo was barely manageable thanks to my claustrophobia. I got a couple of hours of shut-eye but felt terribly nauseous after waking up. Since then, I've been running on fumes.

Right now, slightly tipsy with my belly full and the most hypnotising eyes staring at me, my eyes start to droop. I know from experience that falling asleep in a chair would make me very sore so I summon all my willpower to get up. To my surprise, the room is empty save Light, Misa, L and me. Misa has fallen asleep in Light’s lap and he’s about to doze off too. L could not be more awake if he were an owl, considering the amount of sugar he’d consumed. Giving him a sleepy wave, and mumbling a “G’night”, I head to my room.

—--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The morning after my mouth tastes like butt, multiple someones are hammering my head and my body aches everywhere. Peeling my eyes open is a challenge but when I get them to focus, I see a glass of water, an aspirin with some dry toast and orange juice as a personal treat. I immediately chug down the pill with water and even though the food looks appetizing, brushing my teeth comes first. Groaning, I piteously make my way to the bathroom and make it back to bed in record time, mouth fresh now. The toast feels perfect right now even though I can only nibble, not bite. Orange juice is skipped because I feel nauseous and don’t want any fluids in me. Head still pounding and body still hurting, I sink back into the bed, Morpheus already pulling me under.

—--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next time I wake up, I feel heavy. Good heavy you feel when you’ve had deep, uninterrupted sleep in a long time. Basking in the sensation a bit longer, I start planning my day. Shower first, supernatural second. Today will be spent comfortably indoors reviewing all Kira case data. Taking a long shower, complete with hair wash and exfoliating, I feel like a new, cheerful person. The building that felt eerie yesterday now looks full of possibilities (It also helps the EMF in my hand picks up no readings).

Everyone, save Misa (thank God), is already in the briefing room when I arrive. A couple of new sofas have been placed near the table from last night. Some greetings are directed my way and I hand out smiles and nods. L and Light are stationed in front of the screen. “Hello bo-”, the words feel wrong, these are not my boys. 

I clear my throat, “Hey guys, any new updates?” 

“Here you are. Had a good rest, Anne? Ryuzaki and I have been at this all morning but nothing new from Yotsuba or elsewhere”, replies Light.

A cup of tea is thrust toward me by a tired-looking L. The guy has apparently pulled an all-nighter. Not that he can’t pull off the raccoon look but sleep is important. As we’re not close enough that I can order him to bed, my displeasure shows through my pursed lips. The tea tastes surprisingly normal as I expected L to have put a bajillion sugar cubes in it. On second thought, it’s exactly as I take it. My heart lifts as I wonder if he pays me special attention.

The raccoon in question speaks up, “Here is your laptop with all the data in it. If you try to take it out of the building, it will self-destruct.”

“Thanks for the show of trust honey, really warms my heart.”

Settling down on the sofa, I get comfortable.

It’s research time.

Chapter Text

Boredom. That’s the only word for it. The files are very detailed and I’ve decided to go in chronological order. At least my usual cases had a good old juicy murder or suicide story. These are just facts and hypotheses with a bunch of jargon. To cover everything, I’ve decided to go chronologically which means the initial stuff is mind-numbing as hell. Once I get to only the current task force’s investigation, it should get better.

Aha, the pictures of Kira’s puppets, let’s see what they’ve got. A pentagram in a circle? Was the poor dude hoping for protection? If yes, then what from? If he knew who, or what Kira was, then why didn’t he say so? I take a screenshot to look at it later.

The next 3 photos are just a bunch of text- poetry, badly written. Why would Kira make his victims write poetry in their last seconds? There’s definitely a hidden message in there.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1gbSV_lnV8X41nRkETMW_nT_C_Bnf2qBx?usp=drive_link (A/N: check out the 3 photos in this link)

A fearful ode to Kira, not likely. Hmm…first letter of every word? …Nope, doesn’t set. Let’s reverse. Nada. First letter of every line? Nuh-uh. Reverse again. Bingo!

Ldoyouknow

I pick up the next 2 photos and decipher them quickly.

L do you know shinigami only eat apples  (A/N: The photos says reapers cause they're from manga but I'm following the show and it says shinigami there- so please bear with me)

Shinigami? What’s this? Sounds like my thing.

A simple search on my personal laptop (with internet access, suck it L) paints one picture- Japanese Spirits of Death.

https://historycooperative.org/japanese-god-of-death-shinigami/ (You can read this article upto Making the Shinigami Angry)

The lore says that Shinigami only take people who are already close to death, but not all of these criminals can be close to death at the same time suddenly. Did someone grow a pair and get a Shinigami on a leash? How? By giving them apples? That also doesn’t explain the heart attacks. Shinigami make people commit suicide so what’s with this new MO? And where do the names and faces fit in? If a Shinigami wanted to kill someone, they just got to possess the person. Kira is not a Shinigami then, but someone who is using a Shinigami in some way at least. This is dangerous. As a rule, reapers or gods or spirits of death are invisible to everyone save those who die- or those who bind them. No EMF or cameras will catch anything. Should I summon Death? He could have jurisdiction over Shinigami too since he’s the literal anthropomorphic representation of death. If he finds out one of his own is fucking around or bound, he could deal with this on his own. But wouldn’t he know already? And he hasn’t done anything which means he’s not interested or whatever’s happening is not wrong- atleast not according to him. Calling him is risky as I have no backup and if he feels I’m wasting his time, he could very well arrange my death. Perhaps later, as a last option with a delicious pizza offering.

Anyway, I shouldn’t rule out the possibility that this could just be to throw L for a loop. He has disregarded this as nonsense but still. Let’s file this for later.

The envelope. Penber dying. If Light is Kira, he has a Shinigami chained up somewhere. The footage from the households is next. I first check the Yagami tapes, and it is just as L said. Light is too straight and narrow. It seems practiced, and intentional. He is not as relaxed as a teenager should be at home but seems to be putting on a play. Another thing, he’s talking to himself while doing homework. Now whatever they show you on movies and TVs, nobody talks to themselves out loud about their day or what they’re doing. I’ve watched more houses and even more people than you can count. Just doesn’t happen, nope. The fact that Light is doing it means he wants somebody to listen. The messages would mean nothing to the police watching the cams, which means it’s for someone else. Someone invisible to us. Shinigami again? Congrats Light, you’re top suspect once again, though it’s apparent by the handcuffs that he never made it off L’s list. I watch all of his footage but there’s nothing except this gut instinct that Light is not right .

To be on the safe side, I watch the Kitamura tapes carefully too. They’re normal in the way normal people are- cleared immediately. The Sakura TV incident is next and on comes the tape L made me watch. After that, there are 2 tapes- yes and no. This must be for the police’s decision to join or stand against Kira. There’s truly nothing useful in them, what a waste. 

The response of Second Kira to Light’s tape was interesting. Verify each other’s identity by showing each other their Shinigami? Kira doesn’t have eyes? Hm…there is a Shinigami after all. I need to dig deeper but before that, I listen to all Second Kira tapes for any other clues. There’s nothing in the tapes but the diary entry from last year has that word, Shinigami, again. At a match- it could be possible to blend in with so many people but could they be so stupid as to be so obvious? Hang on, the Second Kira sent a message on the 23rd saying they’d found Kira. This means the entries before it, probably the one of the 22nd, is the correct one. 

Met with friend in Aoyama and exhanged notes.

What does this mean? What’s the clue that only Light could understand that made him volunteer to go to Aoyama? It sure as hell isn’t a coincidence. If Misa is the Second Kira, she must have set sights on Light at some point. The CCTV footage didn’t show Misa anywhere so she was either invisible, in disguise, or was watching the cameras. This means she would’ve seen something about Light- something only meaningful to her or something invisible. Shinigami.

Maybe I’m getting tunnel vision but the possibility of this being right is too high. Shinigami has already been mentioned thrice, once by Kira and twice by the Second Kira in the tape and diary entry. L mentioned they’d been acting strange during the investigation, let’s check out that footage. L wasn’t joking around when he confined Misa. She’s strapped to her chair like she’s a deadly, vicious killer and not a dumb blonde. Is she a deadly, vicious killer? She’s surprisingly tight-lipped too. Normally it’s a challenge to shut her up. She’s protecting someone, her beloved Light maybe? She suddenly starts crying on the screen to kill her. 5 minutes after this, she passes out. When she comes to, it’s like she’s the dumb blonde again. Something happened when she passed out. Was the spirit of a Shinigami possessing her? And it left her when it realized the girl was useless now- begging for death. If so, why didn’t the Shinigami just kill her? It’s not like there’s any lost love.

Light’s confinement is the same way except he isn’t bound. He’s still all serious and silent though, despairing that he’s Kira. About 2 weeks later, he changes his tune saying he isn’t Kira. Begs to be let out. Why is he contradicting his earlier statements? Shinigami spirit left him too when it figured that Light would be useless under 24*7 surveillance? Question is- were Light and Misa aware they were possessed? Are they like Jeffrey? The guy wanted the demon in him, did these guys want the Shinigamis? Figuring I wouldn’t get anything more from the data, I put the laptop aside and start my own research on how the hell is Shinigami connected to Kira. 

Stretching my back, I meet eyes with Ryuzaki. God knows how long he has been staring at me. The intensity of his gaze makes me believe he wants to actually read my mind. The genius he is, he probably reads me more than I know. Not wanting to hide, I lock my laptop and boldly walk over to him. The best plan of action is honesty here- partial honesty, cause there’s no way in hell he wouldn’t admit to the psych ward if I said I wanted to investigate the Japanese Gods of Death.

“Can I have a word in private, Ryuzaki? Just you and me”, I whisper.

The staring continues for a moment until he uncuffs himself from Light, gets up to walk out of the room with a quick, “follow me”.

He takes us 2 floors up to an exact replica of the command center down there, only smaller. “This is Watari’s office, the only other room besides mine and the control center that isn’t under surveillance. Based on the tone of your request, I assume you don’t want the other team members to know of it.”

At my nod, he sits in his usual position on a chair. “Speak.”

“The following questions and requests might seem weird but consider them the most important. Now tell me, what is it about Light and Misa that makes you sure that they are- or were- doing the murders?”

“The clues-”

“Forget the clues for a damn minute. What does your gut tell you? Why do you feel that they’re murderers?”

After silence stretches for a while, L says in a quiet voice, “His eyes. They had an evil glint to them. His expression. Always perfect. Always what I would expect. It looked manufactured, not real. His intelligence. He could do those murders and get away with it. From the first time I laid my eyes on him, a part of me has always been sure that he is Kira. As for Misa, my interactions with her aren’t frequent. She was apprehended as soon as her DNA was found on those packages. Apart from her mind turning quickly that one time, there’s nothing weird I’ve noticed about her. There is one thing I neglected to mention about her though. Misa’s parents were killed by a burglar in her presence. The suspect walked free due to insufficient evidence. Kira killed them. She adores Kira for that. She also adores Light. Which means she could be the second Kira if Kira was Light.”

“Misa isn’t the chief concern here- but we will have to be careful with her. I’m going to say something, Ryuzaki, and you’re not going to like it. The worst thing you could’ve done is make Light a part of the task force and then keep Misa around. If Misa is the second Kira who can kill by just knowing the face, you’ll be instantly dead when her power gets back to her. And you’re only safe from Light as long as he doesn't know your name.”

“You’re sure that he is Kira then?”

I’m quick to deny it because I do not know for sure. Another thing I’ve learned in my world is half of the time, the unexpected guy is the killer. For all I know, it could be Matsui.

“Then why didn’t you say “if”? You said that I’m only safe from Light as long as he doesn’t know my name. You didn’t say “if he is Kira”.”

“Slip of tongue,” I’m quick to lie. Truth is, with L’s conviction, I have strong doubts about Light as well.

“Nevermind that Ryuzaki. Now focus. In a day or two, I’ll show up with some “ order from headquarters ” that will get civilians off the investigation. The control isn’t in your hands anymore; some unknown FBI department is taking over the reins.” 

“That way you can get rid of Light and Misa without making it seem that we are still suspicious of them,” L ponders.

“Bingo. You’re number 1 on Kira’s hitlist, Watari is probably number 2 based on how close you two are. If those 2 are Kiras, we have to make it seem as if you’re not a threat anymore.”

Truth is, I’m not sure this is what Sam and Dean would’ve done. But they’re not here and the decision falls to me, so I’m going to roll with this.

“Reasonable. But I do not want Light off the investigation. He is intelligent and on the chance that he is not Kira, his help will be crucial. And if he is Kira, I want to keep an eye on Misa and him.”

I let loose a disbelieving laugh. “Listen sugar cube, you do not know how much danger you’re in. I’ve almost identified Kira’s source of power and it is not something you can control. Not a criminal you can lock up or keep an eye on . This is beyond your reach. Not an insult or a doubt on your abilities, just the truth. I want to keep you guys safe. You and Watari will die in this investigation if we don’t cut off Light and Misa right now. They know about your every move and can counter it. If the Chief is leaking the information, even unknowingly, I’ll come up with a way to replace him too. The entire task force, if necessary.”

“What are you so afraid Kira will find out?”

“The investigation details, dumbass. What else?”

L’s stare grows even more piercing if possible, his head cocked to the side. Adorable. “No, that’s not it. You’ve been on edge the whole time you’ve been here. You appear sad too; sadder than a normal human. Something is bothering you. The whole time you’ve been convincing me, you’ve had a desperate energy about you. You also keep fidgeting. For anyone else, I would say they weren’t just cut out for this, but you are. Your hands, your stance is of a fighter. You will push away your discomfort by squaring your shoulders and tilting your chin up. You are brave, and experienced too. Then what is it about this investigation that has you on edge?”

The guy learns more than he lets on. For the first time, I realise that L is not just a cute little weirdo. L is the number 1 detective in the world and I need to stay on guard around him or he could very easily figure out what a vault of secrets I am. At the moment though, I want to answer his questions honestly. It’s been so long since somebody has taken the time to really see me. Neglect is getting to me. I’m also in need of some desperate human comfort. What would being hugged by L feel like…L would be such a great cuddle partner…who is still looking at me expectantly.

“You’re right, L. I’m not afraid of Kira finding anything out, except your and Watari’s real names. I am on edge because this is dangerous. And I have no one. My team- we were 5 people. Now it’s just me. This is the first time I’ve taken on something so big without them. I’m scared that I won’t be enough, that I’ll mess up. That’s why I was being pushy earlier because I want to make sure you’re safe in case things go south. The lead I’m working on- if Kira finds out…it wouldn’t be pretty. If there’s even a chance that Light and Misa are the Kiras, we need them off the investigation. I’m alone, and the danger this entails…I’m worried I won’t be enough to handle it.”

L’s eyes have predictably stayed on my face the whole time I’ve talked. Now that I’ve made the confession, sweat is breaking out on my back. The air feels hotter, draining me of my energy. I want to take my words back. The longer L stares, the bigger the urge to crawl into a hole and die. Stupid word vomit. I wanted to earn his respect and view me as an equal, now he’ll just see a scared, incompetent girl who doesn’t feel up for a challenge.

“It doesn’t seem like you will mess things up. Your level of concern shows you will take the utmost care with this investigation. I am…glad of this.”

I feel warm again but this warmth is very much welcome. To prevent word vomit again, I stay silent and just give L a grateful smile, seeing which he continues.

“I will agree to your plan of taking Light and Misa off the investigation- but they will remain under surveillance. You can say that all the previous suspects must remain under surveillance as a precautionary measure- orders from headquarters .”

“Okay, we can make that work.”

“That’s not all. This lead you’re investigating- I want to investigate it with you.”

Yeah, right.

“No way in hell, L. It isn’t your thing.”

“Then you don’t investigate it either. You said so yourself, you feel alone. You’re used to working with your team. We can work together on your lead. And don’t forget your promise from yesterday. You di agree you wouldn’t make any moves for the first few days without consulting me. Besides, I am the world’s number 1 detective. Who better than me to investigate with you?”

The logic is sound- and that’s one of the problems. How will L react to knowing that monsters are in fact real, that they defy his logic? That Shinigami are probably real too? Even if it isn’t a Shinigami, it’s 100% something supernatural. How would he be justice then?

“L, you don’t understand. My way of working is very different. Things are looking bad, and the world is actually worse than you think. The lead I have- if it’s actually right- we will have a big problem on our hands. And you may be the best detective in the world but you are not equipped to handle this.”

“If you refuse, I will Light and Misa with us. Your choice.”

Damn him. I can’t exactly take the guy to a bar of hunters and make inquiries about spirits of death. I can’t take him hunting, period. At least not until I know what I’m dealing with.

“How about a compromise? We take Light and Misa off the case, and I do a little research on my lead. If it’s the real deal, I’ll tell you immediately and we can work together on it. If it’s bullshit, no point in risking your life over it. Fair?”

Eyes narrowed, he thinks it over. Too bad if he doesn’t agree cause there’s no chance I’m budging on this one. With my luck, the minute we step out of the building, we’ll be attacked by vampires or something that’ll result in the demise of the world’s greatest detective. It isn’t like I haven’t already gotten a world famous individual killed. Not that he was a human. Just a shape-shifting, all-eating monster that God himself locked away after realizing he fucked up.

“Acceptable. But I will put a tracking device on you to keep me notified of your location at all times. If it is truly as dangerous as you say, you must be monitored”, L finally decides.

“Fine by me. But you can’t come in- no matter what- unless I explicitly ask you to. Clear?”

“Alright. Will you follow your lead after Light and Misa leave?”

“No, I’ll start right away. Staying discreet for 2 days isn’t a problem.”

“I’ll have Watari give you a tracking device as soon as he returns from his errand. Don’t leave until then, and certainly not without informing me.”

“Who says I’m leaving now? Phase 1: Research on my laptop. I’m getting the laptops and holing up in my room. Do NOT let Misa come in. Can’t-”

“-let her know what you’re working on. Fine. I’ll send Watari there. Let’s go back now.”

As L and I head back to the command center, my chest feels lighter than before. Even though he doesn’t know everything, he’s still on my side. I have a plan. Research on the web, research in the local library, meeting the local hunters, confirming the monster, how to kill it and then killing it. 

Easy-peasy, right?

Chapter Text

The warmth on my face feels too nice with the breeze coming in from the sea. With every passing moment, a thought leaves my mind- decimating my todo one task at a time. When the panic attacks came and there was no one and nothing to help me, distract me- I took it upon myself to silence my mind forcefully. Close my eyes and will my muscles unlock. Banish every thought as soon as it came. Lose awareness of the weight on my shoulders and the pain in my chest. Between my stubbornness to make this work and the tiredness in my body, it became…possible after a while. After the shitty month we’d been having, this detour feels surreal. There is a pit forming in my stomach because surely, something is about to go wrong. Peace is not easily found, not for people like us. How things can get worse than they currently are, I am not certain. But they will.

One thing in particular. Ruby.

The demon who’s convincing my friend to drink demon blood to enhance his psychic abilities to kill the mother of demons, Lilith, and rescue his brother from Hell where he was dragged by hellhounds a little over a month ago.

Definitely wrong. I’d been doing everything to stop that from happening but I wasn’t sure how long I could make him see sense. Sam loved Dean, and the fact that Dean had gone to hell because he made a demon deal to bring back Sam from the dead was definitely increasing the guilt factor. Wrong is wrong though, and drinking demon blood is a solid no-no. Even Dean would agree with that. Not that I thought much about what Dean would agree with, or about him in general. My sanity was hanging by a thread, and any prolonged thought on Dean would make me completely lose it. I want him here, beside me, drinking beer and chasing after skirts. And I will make that happen. But not by losing Sam in the process. 

A beer is placed in front of me. Silently accepting it, I bring it to my mouth. Now, there’s warmth beside me too. A very comforting warmth, one I’d recognize in my sleep, one that I never want to go away, one I crave too much. I’m not relaxed now. I’m using every ounce of strength I have to stay as I am and not lean into him. Those arms that have helped me for nights while I cried, those that look so strong, and inviting, are calling my name. But I resist. Comfort is something he doesn’t want now.  

He only wants Dean.

I want him. 

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The red liquid in a bottle isn’t wine. 

She finally convinced him.  

I drop the groceries, sprinting, knocking the bottle from his hands.

The walls are painted red.

My vision blurs as a sharp pain registers in my skull. “What the fuck, you bitch? That was my blood”, snarls Ruby as she presses me against the motel wall.

“Hands off, Ruby. Now.”

Good, atleast he cares this much.

Dropping me and whirling on him, she starts shouting. “I’m not your minion, Sam. I’ve been tailing you for months to convince you to use your powers for good and she is constantly against me. Get her in line. I won’t keep coming here to get insulted. You don’t need her. You come with me now and we can start with your training. Lilith isn’t going to kill herself.”

Sam’s expression is easier to read in his distress. He doesn’t want to leave me like this but he is set on getting revenge, getting Dean back. If he leaves now, my chances of getting him back are next to zero.

Getting onto my feet shakily, I make my way to Sam. The time for caution is gone. Stretching on tip-toes, I cup his face and bring it closer to mine. Sam’s shaky inhale gives me hope.

“Sam, look at me. Can you see what you mean to me? How much I care for you? Can you remember how much I care for Dean? I love him, and I want him back. But I also love you, and I don’t want to lose you. Please, Sam. This is demon blood. What if something happens to you? What if after drinking enough demon blood you turn into one too? It scares me, Sam. I’m so, so scared.”

My eyes close at this point, tears leaking out. I hold his face tighter, wanting to feel him after staying away for so long.

“Sam, please. We’ll start slow. We’ll develop your psychic abilities without the blood. It’s safer, right? And possible too. Please say yes, Sam. Stay with me. Dean is gone now, and until we get him back, we only have each other. Please be with me, Sam. Look at me. I need you, Sam. So much. Hold me, Sam. ”

He isn’t moving. My hands leave his face to find his hands. I place them on my waist and cup his neck. Stroke his chin. Touch his forehead to mine. “This isn’t bad, Sam, right? Please stay with me. I’m begging you.”

Cicadas are buzzing, curtains ruffling. Somewhere near, a dog barks. My heart gives a jolt.

Finally, he gives a jerky nod. Finally, I sob heaving in relief. Finally, the bitch leaves.

That’s the first night we sleep in each other’s arms.

Morning comes, and we’re both still holding onto one another.

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The days after that are filled with hunting demons and Sam trying to kill them with his psychic abilities. Few he manages, rest we exorcise after interrogating about Lilith's whereabouts. Every demon that proves useless makes Sam resent me more. Those are the nights he sleeps in his bed turned away from me. We still don’t talk. Barely perfunctory words are spoken, nods given, grocery lists written. I’ve taken to calling Bobby every time I’m alone, which is often. Sam needs his space and every second he’s out of my sight, I imagine Ruby cornering him again and Sam accepting her help. Bobby shares my fear but there’s not much he can do as Sam refuses to see him or any other hunter. The cases we stumble on, he ignores. I note them and ask Bobby to get some hunter on it, wishing I was on it. The thrill of the hunt would make me feel better. It’d feel wrong, without Dean. But those brief moments where nothing matters except you and the kill- I want that oblivion. The only time I get it now is in Sam’s arms at nights his highness does deign to grace my bed. Settled between his arms and chest, the world feels liveable. Like I didn’t see my best friend ripped to shreds and dragged to hell in front of me. Like there’s still warmth in the world. Like I can relax and close my eyes. 

Sometimes, my growing feelings for him worry me. Because my feelings are mostly of love and worry while his eyes show nothing when he looks at me. It’s like he’s only doing this because I begged him to hold me. A duty he has to perform because someone who’s hurting asked him of it. These thoughts always make me feel guilty, and make me want to tell him to stop, lie that I don’t need it. But I never say this because what if my need is the only thing keeping him here and away from Ruby?

While trying to save Dean, I knew my biggest job would be to get him back once he got taken. I never thought it would be to save Sam from getting himself taken as well.

He shuts the TV off. In 3 steps, he’s on my bed. Lights are turned off, and I’m tugged down.

He’s spooning me today.

I allow myself a brief smile and pull his arm tighter around me.

Don’t let go, Sam .

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sipping my glass of sake, which was the only thing I could identify and pronounce in this bar, I glance around from my darkened corner at the other patrons of “Kariudo no Tsuki”, also called Hunter’s Moon. It must be popular cause I scored a ride on the app. A taxi would’ve been cheaper but my Japanese isn’t that good and I didn’t want to get lost. Currently, it’s 6 PM and people are starting to come in. I imagined it’d be like back home- mostly a hunter break stop but suits and lovebirds are also coming in. The interior looks rough but in a classy way. There is no one I can walk up to and just start talking. The hunter who gave me this address showed me a picture of a guy called Haru. He was short with a shorter mustache that reminded me of Hitler. Haru knew anything that happened here, but when I asked the bartender about him (thanks to Google translate), he just shot me a blank stare with “Haru no here”.

45 minutes later of people watching, my suspect walked in, headed straight to me and plopped down on the seat next to me after giving the bartender a meaningful look. There goes his 18%. He said nothing, just stared at me. People have been staring a lot here in Japan. Dean would stare back even longer, refusing to give in but I’m tired of this shit and want to get some work done. Plastering on my best smile, I start in English, “Mr. Haru, pleased to meet you. This is Anne. Could we please talk?”

Seeing his nod, I’m inwardly relieved. Thank God he atleast understands English. 

“You can guess what I do and why I’m here, correct?”

A nod.

“So can you please let me know your thoughts on how is Kira doing this murder? What have you found so far?”

Nothing this time. 

I feel a headache coming. 

“Mr. Haru, I understand you’re a hunter. I know you understand me. I need answers. There are mass murders happening and it’s our responsibility to stop them. Can you be of assistance?”

Nada. 

My fingers tighten on the now-empty glass. I look away and count to ten. What a dick.

When I turn to him again, he’s gesturing to a girl. She comes and stands next to him and then he gestures to me.

Looking at me, she flinches a bit and I rearrange my expression into something softer bringing a tentative smile on her face.

“I’m Umi. What can I do for you?”, her sweet voice fills my ears.

Thank fucking God.

“Are you a hunter?”

She’s taken aback at this blunt question and stammers out a response. “N-no, I’m still being trained. But I know things.”

“Good. Please tell me your theories about the Kira case. Now please.”

“Well, there isn’t anything to tell. He’s been sent by God.”

Huh?

“Could you repeat that sweetheart?”

Umi’s answer is full of admiration. “Kira is only killing criminals, and he has decreased the crime rate dramatically. People feel safer with him. We believe God has sent him to deliver his divine justice. ”

Psycho alert. 

“Kira is killing people, wielding a supernatural power we haven’t heard of before and you’re not concerned? What kind of hunters are you?”

Umi is quick to correct me. Me . “Not people, just criminals. And we haven’t heard of it before because that power belongs to God and we do not hunt God.”

God. of Death. Shinigami?

“So you know which God is doing it?”, wanting her to confirm my suspicions.

“That isn’t for us to know. But whoever it is has our thanks.” Her eyes have gone mad; she totally believes this crap.

Dropping my nice act, I scoff. “Are you fucking crazy? Kira murders . He is wrong. Anything, any God, helping him is wrong.”

For the first time, Haru speaks something. I don’t understand the work but his words are angry and eyes accusing. 

Umi speaks up, “Haru says we know what you’ve been doing. You are just like the monsters you kill in America. We are holy people- we kill evil and respect the divine.”

“And Kira is DIVINE???”

All hints of a smile are gone from her face when she speaks next. “Keep your voice down. We won’t help you catch Kira. We don’t even want to find Kira. Let him rid the world of evil and then we can kill monsters in peace like us hunters are meant to.”

Haru speaks again and the girl nods furiously.

“Seeing as you’re an American hunter, we have something of yours that we’re anxious to get rid of. Wait here.”

She disappears behind the back door. In the 15 minutes it takes her to get back, I realize I’m fucked. Being on a different continent, I have no idea how Japanese hunters work. I have no contacts. No one to turn to in case things get fucked up. I’ve told L that I’m working on a lead but this bar is a bust. Only thing I’ve left is the library now- and even then, killing a Shinigami would take weapons. Where and how to get them? L could take care of the police if there are bodies but I’d have to tell him why there are bodies. Including him in this supernatural angle could prove disastrous. Should I call Garth? Jody? Have someone come here to help me? 

When Umi returns, I realize I don’t need to call another hunter from home. 

Seems like they’re already here. 

The girl accompanying Umi is a 15-year-old teenager looking furious and relieved at the sight of me.

Krissy.

—----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Once Krissy finished her tale (with 3 burgers, 2 large fries and cokes), I marvel for the millionth time how we, who save the world, are constantly being fucked over. Her dad got her to investigate Kira, same as me but without the FBI’s help, and got eaten by a vampire. Krissy’s been stuck here since they came on a fake passport, she had no money, oh and yeah- that she’s a minor. She couldn’t contact anyone at home because who needs numbers when you have phones? But what happens when blood-crazy monsters trash your house and break all your shit? The hunters at the bar let her stay in exchange for doing some chores. I thank a God I don’t believe in or count on that it was not worse. 

“So I have some yen saved from what they paid me. But if you get me back home- I have an aunt- I’ll pay you back,” Krissy says once she’s done eating.

“I’m getting you back sweetie, and don’t worry about the money. Humanity still exists no matter what you’ve seen.”

Her fingers start tapping on the table. “No matter what, huh? I’ve seen my father ignore me and go crazy to prove his worth by catching this psycho. What kind of person does that?”

Well, atleast he didn’t force Krissy to hunt. “Look sweetheart, I don’t know why your father did what he did. This life, it changes something fundamental inside people. We stop being regular people and become someone else. Just remember the good moments with him and leave it at that. Nothing’s your fault, so no need to look for answers that aren’t coming. Okay?”

Her nod is quick and shaky. The girl doesn’t cry, I respect her. “Your aunt, she reliable?”

“Um, I don’t really know. Dad only talked about her sometimes but she’s lived at the same house for 20 years. I remember the way.”

Not good.

My plan is made- atleast for her. I call my contact at FBI and tell him to have a fake US passport brought over to me with Krissy's face and a fake name. Earliest she can leave will be the day after tomorrow, six in the morning. Haneda to O’Hare, then to Sioux Falls Regional Airport. Jody will be there to pick her up and handle the rest.

Taking her back to the headquarters is a definite no. I pick the nearest motel to the airport and get ourselves a room. While Krissy’s enjoying a long-awaited bath (evident by her off-tune humming), my mind is reeling- I have 0 leads on Kira with just a hunch about Shinigami, and now a kid to take care of for 2 days. Meanwhile, L is there with Light and Misa who could very well be the murderers. What a mess.

Pulling up Watari’s number, I inform him that some personal business has come up requiring me to stay out of the headquarters until the morning of the day after tomorrow. “Your request for leave will have to be approved by Ryuzaki; please stay on the line while I confirm this with him.” Staring at the phone in disbelief, I contemplate chucking it out along with the tracker he placed on my belt.

“I thought your commitment to catching Kira would have you here with us day and night. What is so important that you must stay away?”, comes the bored drawl of the detective.

“As I told Watari, it’s personal.”

“What of the lead?”

I pinch my eyes shit remembering that shit show. “Terrible. Waste of time.”

“I could’ve told you that before and saved you a trip to Hunter’s Moon. ”

I sit up straight from where I had been lounging on the bed. Hearing hunter in L’s voice is like I’ve been in a dream and then suddenly falling in a dead drop. 

God. Oh god.

“Anne? Anne?”

“Yes Ryuzaki?” I gasp.

“Are you alright?”

No. “Yes.”

“What happened at the bar?”, L prods.

“Nothing. My lead turned out to be a Kira supporter. They don’t know who Kira is but they certainly won’t be helping us.” I wonder if the defeat in my voice is apparent to him or not.

“Hm. Unsurprising. You should get back to the headquarters so you may actually prove useful.”

Picking at my cuticles, I’m planning my trip to the local library to show him how useful I am. “Shut up, Ryuzaki. I told you, I have a personal thing to take care of.”

“Are you planning to engage in intercourse with a stranger?”

What. What.

My voice is a squeak. “Ryu- what the hell dude?”

“Well, you were at a bar, your location is at a motel now and asking for leave for personal reasons when you possibly can’t have any in a foreign country you’ve been in for less than 48 hours with no contacts. It’s a highly probable guess that you met a stranger at a bar and now want to have sex with him.”

His whole explanation- wow. “No, Ryuzaki. I’m not at the motel to have sex. Something really important and unrelated to the case has come up. I wasn’t expecting it. Real coincidence. But I have to take care of this. And as for being useful, I’ll do my research from the local library tomorrow and be back at the headquarters the next morning.”

“If you do anything stupid, the taskforce will not rescue you. Do not screw up the investigation. Do not draw attention to yourself during your library trip.”

Duh. “There goes the plan of wearing my big bird costume tomorrow. I was really looking forward to it.”

The robot does not laugh. I decide to get some answers for a change.

“How are things at your end? Lovebirds acting usual?"

L enunciates like he’s talking to a 2 year old. “We cannot talk about that on the phone. It’s not secure.”

Rolling my eyes, I huff out a reply. “Like you haven’t got the most secure phones on the planet. Thanks for giving me one, btw. Definitely going to get up to all sorts of nefarious things on this one.”

A long-suffering sigh is my only answer.

I want more. I don’t want to hang up. I don’t want to face the surly, traumatized teenager about to get out of the bath. I don’t want to go back to planning my next move when I have nothing.

I want Sam and Dean. And Cas and Bobby. And my mom and dad. And a hug. And someone to make me feel warm. And to keep talking to L- the only person I’ve allowed myself to trust one percent.

The wall I’ve been staring at goes blurry. I want a hug, now. NOW.

I swallow- sharp, hot glass shards going down my throat.

The call is still on. No one speaks. I disconnect. 

I’ve let go.

Chapter Text

Shinigami have a lot of lore surrounding them. They’re the Japanese Gods of Death (more spirits than Gods), gone rogue, and guiding people to death. There is no mention anywhere of how to kill them. If this really is a Shinigami, I’ll just have to hope my demon knife or angel blade works on it. But first I’d have to find it. Based on what the second Kira said in the tape, they can see Shinigami and they probably stay close to them.

My thoughts start to swim and I push away the books and scrolls. The Japanese-to-English page is still open on my laptop when the news alert of Yotusba pops up.

“Stocks sky-rocket: The fortune and fame of Yotsuba”

What they conveniently leave out is that Yousuba’s rival, Watanabe, has lost their entire board in a hotel fire at the company retreat. Or their American rivals, Pascal Enterprise, losing their CEO to a drug overdose.

Fortunate indeed.

L had called one more time, wanting a status update. Things have been the same on their end and the taskforce is getting antsy about Yotsuba.

Pascal’s CEO's death couldn't have happened at a better timing. I’ve now concocted a story of how Americans are furious over their citizens' (criminal population included) deaths. FBI has launched a ghost division, and the task force was investigated. When found that 2 civilians, both previous Kira suspects, were working on the investigations, I’d been called in for a scolding.

I gotta follow strict orders of having the “cleared suspects” off the investigation but under orders of not leaving Kanto region.

Hopefully, this will be enough to get Light and Misa away from us without rousing suspicions or getting them to kill any FBI members. I’ve discussed this with L in advance and he assured me that Misa will be thrilled to leave and Asahi would want Light to leave as well.

A part of me is actually hoping that they will fight to stay, show reluctance to get away from the case. Which Kira should do. But if that is expected Kira behaviour, Kira shouldn’t do it. So if Light and Misa are Kiras, they shouldn’t do it. But they’ll do it anyway to prove they aren’t Kiras.

UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.

Now I understand why L couldn’t catch Light/Kira for so long. These mind games, without proof, will get us nowhere. I needed answers, and I needed them fast.

I couldn’t call Death. Not yet.

But what about someone else? Someone I knew from a long time ago. I could call her, talk to her about this.

Not yet though.
No one could know where I was.
The future, my world, depended on that.

—------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I deliver my pitch with some really great acting, if I do say so myself. I’m somber, pensive, apologetic, responsible and professional at appropriate times.

The reactions are what L predicted.
Light doesn’t want to go. Misa wants to go immediately. Asahi wants both of them to go.

“I want to make a formal application to join the task force. What does the FBI need?”

Light’s voice carries only one emotion: passion.

He really, really wants this.

I want to look at L, see what he makes of this but I keep my expression neutral. Then change to sympathetic.

“Light, it doesn’t- that’s not possible. You are a civilian with no training. Granted, you’re very smart and the son of a police officer, but that doesn’t grant you special privileges. L was wrong to include you in the first place, but everyone ignored it in favor of his genius. Now he hasn’t solved this so far so people are trying to take back control.”

Light’s expression is pained- like he understands but wants to argue anyway. Asahi is watching his son with such sorrow I actually feel sorry for that man; for his sake, I hope that Light’s innocent.

“My son, this is a blessing. You have invested much of your time and youth in this case. You should be in college, studying and enjoying with your friends. Building your future. I want you to do that. I know you’re determined to catch Kira, and I let you stay this long. But the investigation grows more complex with every day. It could be a long time before we catch him. I can’t bear to see you lose all that time. You must leave, Light.”

Thank God. I soften my features, let some moisture in my eyes. Matsui and Misa are beaming at Chief, overjoyed by his brilliant choice for his son.

Light’s shoulder slumps in the face of his father’s stare.

“You will call me if anything big happens or you need my help, right Ryuzaki?”

L merely nods and moves to uncuff himself again from Light.

“Your presence will be…missed.” With this, he walks away, dodging an attack from Misa, who yells at his back, “I’ll miss you too, Ryuzaki!”

Instead of taking my exit like L, I sit there with a polite smile on my face as goodbyes are said.

Finally, the couple comes to me. “Shame we couldn’t spend more time together, Anne! We would’ve been besties. Still, you can call me anytime and we’ll hang out- unless it’s my date night with Light.”

After this, there’s nothing more Light and I have to say so I just wave at them with a “See ya.”

Away they go. Now the real work begins.

—--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I find L in Watari’s control room again. It’s dark, apart from the computer’s light. L is solving a Rubik’s cube when I take a seat beside him.

“L?”

“Yes?”

“They’re gone. We can talk now.”

“Okay. Tell me about your lead- in detail.”

Few seconds pass. I have to word this very, very carefully.

“There are people, who work just like me. A lot of people around the globe. I met some of them, who work in Japan. I was hoping they’d have some sort of…research or theories on Kira. But they turned out to be Kira supporters. I called them crazy, they cursed back at me, I left.” I shrug my shoulders humorously, aiming for a no-biggie attitude.

The cube is solved now. “Was this FBI-sanctioned?”

“No, it wasn’t. FBI usually doesn’t care how work gets done so long it does.”

L scrambles the cube and starts again. “So what now? Has your research at the library got any results?”

It had resulted in me shedding tears over my incompetence.

I’d researched until the time I had to drop Krissy off at the airport. I’d scrambled my brains. Lore on Shinigami was nothing useful at all.

I clear my throat. “No results.”

“I see. What were you looking for?”

“Can’t tell you, not right now.”

L’s fingers are moving super fast now. “You’re hiding things from me.”

It’s not a question.

“You said no secrets when you first arrived. You are breaking your own rule?”

I don’t want to say anything. I just want to go to sleep. “L, it’s not like that.” To my horror, my voice breaks. My vision blurs.

L stares at me like I’m a suspect. Like he’s seen this act tons of times.

I’m not doing that. I’m just…

I start again. “L, there are things you can’t know. Not because I don’t want to tell you. Imagine how much easier it would be for me if I could tell you and get your help. But I can’t. Because it puts you in danger. If anything leaked, it would put me and someone far, far more innocent and important in danger. I can not tell you. At least not right now. Please understand.”

There’s a sparkle in L’s eyes when he asks, “So you are protecting someone?”

“Yes. They’re totally unrelated to this case if you’re wondering,” I’m quick to assure him.

“Why did you take this case then, if you already had such an important responsibility?” L’s head tilts; I mirror it.

“Because people were dying. You couldn’t solve it- no offense. And it’s my job, so I came.”

“You came, without a plan-”
“Hey!”
“And let go 2 potential Kiras-”
“For the best.”
“Don’t you know to keep your enemies closer?”

There’s glass slowly twisting in my chest. “I have L, and believe me I know that I may have made a big mistake. But I couldn't work like that. I wouldn’t have been able to work with Light and Misa here, not after knowing you still suspected and tested them.”

“Why?”

It’s instinctive- I snap at him. “God, just fucking stop with the questions? This isn’t an interrogation.”

L looks non-plussed. “I have made a big decision based on your lead and so far you’ve offered nothing of value. It is my right to ask questions and determine how useful you are.”

This fucking jerk. The audacity.

“I’m very fucking useful. I saved the world, repeatedly, you asshole. If not for my friends and me, you and everyone else on this planet would’ve died a long time ago. And I’m gonna save the world again, while you sit around judging everyone- your supreme holiness.”

God, I am a bitch. Forgive me.