Matt *playing Bioshock*: Goddammit Big Daddy, you just HAVE to be right here right now Don'tcha?
Raven: Matt! *hugged him* We've been looking for you everywhere!
Lamé: That's right, Gameboy. Don't go running off from your girlfriend.
Matt: What? I know where my girlfriend is, she went to the kitchen. Probably getting an apple or something.
Lamé: Did you got barmy from the game, mate? Your girlfriend is hugging you right now.
Matt: Wha? *looks at Raven* Holy shit! Who the hell are you! *looks back at screen* Goddammit I died!
Lamé: I told you Rave! His game is sucking his memory of you! Get a new boyfriend!
Matt: Again Wha? I've never seen either one of you my entire life!
Lamé: He forgot about us! What about Mello?! Do you know who Mello is?!
Matt: Yeah I know him, melodramatic blonde with a short temper and loves chocolate too much. Wait...how do you know Mel?
Raven: He's your best friend. I am your girlfriend. Why wouldn't-wait… YOU'RE NOT MATT!
Lamé: WHERE ARE YOUR GLASSES?! WHAT ARE THOSE ON YOUR FACE?!
Matt: I am Matt and these are goggles. So I don't burn my eyes out on this screen. I've been asking who you two are, and I have yet to get an answer!
Lamé: You don't wear goggles, you wear glasses! Big, ugly black glasses!
Ravenn: You… you seemed older too
Matt: I've never worn glasses, and I'm 19…
Lamé: You're not 19. You're the nerdy third kid in the Wammy house. You're the same age as me: 13. Why would you be 19?
Matt: I was third, when I lived here...well fourth actually...long story
Lamé: No you're not fourth! You're third! Near. Mello. You. Lots of people. Raven. Again, many ankle biters. Then me.
Ebony: *walking in* No, It's me Near, Mel, Matt, and other peo- who are you guys?
Matt: I was wondering the same thing. See there you two, that's my girlfriend.
Eb: I feel like I missed something
Lamé: No! *points at Ebony* You can't be first! Near is first! He's the smartest in the House! And who are you?! You're not Matt's girlfriend! Raven is!... Gameboy, you are two-timing!
Eb: *tilts head* No, that's impossible...for the past 4 years Matt and I have spent...78% of our time together...the 22% is spent either in the bathroom, or him sleeping.
Lamé: No. 99% of time Matt spent gaming. 0.5 he spent with Raven. The other the spent keeping Grumpy in check. And you can't be in Wammy. I KNOW everyone at Wammy. You're not anyone I know.
Eb: .5% eh….Matt you're a terrible boyfriend apparently…
Matt: Eh?
Eb: You heard me! Spend more time being a pedo! Go shoo! *shoos away*
Raven: What just happened? Why is Matt going? Wait up, Matt! I have to talk to you about Mello!
Matt: Whaa? I am not leaving, I was here first! Get away from me kid!
Eb: *chuckles* alright, I think I have this figured out..
Lamé: Well? Say it then… Ebo..Ebony? Is that your name?
Eb: That it is… Well you see, I am from the future where giant monsters shoot lasers out their butts and transport us to a random alternate universe. We ended up here
Lamé: *wide eyes* What?! Oh Lord! Grumpy's movie is coming true! Oh wait that's about ghosts. You guys are ALIENS!
Eb: Totally. Watari found us and gave us a home a long time ago.
Lamé: *Eyes sparkle* This is so cool! I've got to go get Near! He'd love this! Wait-did you say Watari?! As in the Wammy geezer?!So you know L?!
Matt: Yeah..Well Eb *Eb gives Matt "the look"* knows him
Lamé: Have you met him? Is he handsome? Is he nice? I bet he is! Does he like children? How many cases has he solved? Who does he want to be his successor? Will he come anytime soon? TellmeTellmeTellmeTellmeTellmeTellme!
Eb: *kneels down and puts her hands on C's shoulders* L...L is...one awesome guy. A little odd, but no more than anyone else here.
Lamé: He is?! That's so brilliant! I wonder if he's like Near? I'd love it if he is- oh! Who's there behind your back? The brunette? Someone you know?
Eb: Huh? *turns around* Ohh!~ Hi Writer! Writer! HI! *waves*
Pie: Hi Eb!
Lamé: Writer? Are you the new W? Is that your alias? Welcome to Wammy Writer!
Pie: No, I'm Pie, and I'm not a Wammy's Kid. I wrote Eb's story….
Lamé: Heh… So you're a historian then, Writer-I mean Pie...Writer Pie? *looking confused*
Pie: *shakes head and smiles* No I am just a writer, I write stories.
Lamé: That means you're a hist-
TDS: TWINNIE! You're here! And you brought Ebony! *running up with arms wide in slow motion*
Pie: TWINNIE! I did! *Runs toward you in slow motion*
Eb: ...does this seem like a bad romance movie to anyone else?
Raven: …. yes….
Lamé: Like one of those weird movies Roger said was nice and civilized. More odd people just keep popping up like potatoes. I want to go back now. Where's the exit?
Raven: We are not going until this whole Matt business is cleared up. I'm still lost as to why Matt suddenly grows up and doesn't remember me.
Matt: I didn't know you to begin with!
Eb: Shh….you guys are ruining their moment.
Lamé: You're messed up in the head, Gameboy. Grumpy should have taken a better care of you. You guys are friends and roommates but you are just the opposite of him.
Eb: Hmm? Oh right Matt issue. Let's see. Let's call this Matt, "Matt 1." So, what happened wa-
Raven: There is only one Matt to begin with, Fräulein.
Eb: THE EBONY IS SPEAKING WORDS OF RIGHTNESS SHHHH!
Raven: I will not "shh". I want explanation. Why is Matt talking about you as his girlfriend? I'm his girlfriend. He asked me out.
Eb: Well if you let me talk I will tell you why Matt 1 is talking about our relationship.
Lamé: Wait wait wait. First. Let just get out names straight first. I'm going bonkers with all these people first *points at Matt* Who are you exactly?
Matt: I am Matt…
Ebony: *sighs* if you let me explain it'll make less sense...and then more sense. I am 67% sure I am right about this…
Lamé: You talk like Near. Well, not really like him. Sounds like him maybe. Do you know him?
Eb:...I know a version of him…I only use percentages when I am figuring stuff out.
Lamé: A version? *wide eyes* you mean Near is a clone? NO! I will not let you aliens take him away! Stay away from Near! You're just as bad as Linda!
Matt: This isn't working out well...
Eb: Ya think? Writer! I am crashing and burning! HELP MEE!
TDS: YOU ALL SHUT UP AND LET ME SAY THINGS! I AM THE BOSS HERE! TWINNIE! GET THEM IN LINE FOR ME PLEASE!
Pie: Eb Shuddup
Eb: *Opens mouth but changes her mind and Salutes* Aye-Aye
TDS: You! *points at Lamé* Your name is Lamé, you-
Lamé: How do you know my name? I've never met you.
TDS: Twinnie! The tape please!
Pie *hands tape*
TDS *taped Lamé's mouth*: Alright. Anyone up for questions? No? Good. So, first and foremost, hello Ebony! You are looking as dazzling as ever. *smiles* you Matt… I got nothing to say to you… Raven, wait a minute. *Stomped off to get the other Matt* Here's your 13-year-old nerdy Matt. The jerk has been using up all the battery I bought on his Nintendo. Get him out of my sight. And twinnie, would you be so kind to do the honor of announcing the purpose of this gathering please?
Pie: I shall
Eb: I was going to say that...only funnier, and I wasn't sure if Mini-Matt was there….sorry.
Pie: Anyways. I've been helping TDS on this -being a beta and then later a co-writer -and this is the fruits of our labor! Ta-da!
TDS: YES PEOPLE! THIS IS…. drum roll please! Lies of the Light, knights of the night! And I hereby claiming Lamé my possession as well as my part in the plot! *rips tape off C's mouth*
Lamé: *rubs her cheeks while staring in shock* … she owns me…
TDS: yup! I own her!
Raven *pointed at Pie* and she owns me
Mini-Matt: not me *grinned*
Raven: I own you, Matt.
Mini-Matt: no. Final Fantasy does.
TDS: SHUT IT! Again, I own Lamé
Lamé: …. she owns me….
Pie: Eb is mine. Hence why she calls me "writer"
Eb: Yup!
TDS: Oh! And "Matt"s belong to two dudes in Japan
Mini-Matt and Big-Matt: yup. Along with Near, and L and Mello and Rester and Light and-
TDS: I said shut it! I'm not done yet! Oh wait. I am. *grinned* Anything else you want to add twinnie?
Pie: Nope, Thanks for staying with this incredibly long intro…
TDS: that was adding sth. LOL. Oh! I forgot! Pierulz doesn't belong to me either. She's too far away…. WHY?! Oh whhhyyyyy? *cries*
Pie: *pats back* There, there…
TDS: *sniff* s-so w-without further ado…. introducing the first chapter of Lies of the Light, knights of the night! Let's count down guys!
ALL: 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1! ENJOY!
GOLDEN KNIGHT: ENCOUNTER
Darkness…..
It is one of those things that frighten people regardless of gender, age and belief. Whether it's a tiny little boy or a muscular grown man, darkness could still manage to put any unfortunate victim in a state of paranoia with its endless void and invisible boundary. No one knows what would come out from the dark. It ranges from a childhood monster to the most hideous creature from outside the Earth, or in some cases, simply human. For instance, thieves, robbers, serial killers, they all hide in the dark, waiting for a chance to snatch the life out of their next victim.
Insecure.
Scared.
Paranoid.
People are afraid of the dark. And for a certain of some, miserably so.
Yet oddly enough, no one agrees to confront this fear. Were anyone to be asked, they would, to an extent, deny the existence of their irrational sense of uneasiness when put in the dark. But one thing remains is that no matter how many times they deny it, how hard they discard it, and how desperately they want to run from it, the fear is still there lingering in the air, reminding these uncertain hearts that they are, in the end, never safe from the hands of darkness.
Especially here, in this wonderful orphanage, darkness appears even in the mist of morning.
Wammy's House – the orphanage established by Quilsh Wammy, founded to serve one purpose and one purpose only: producing geniuses or more correctly ingenious detectives.
It is not only the darkness from the residents' pasts that spread through these walls but also from their desire, need and craving of being acknowledged and accepted as the best, and to be chosen as the one to receive the title of the greatest mind ever lived.
And I, Lamé, have witnessed, breathed, and lived this darkness of the Wammy House - The heinous darkness of the heart. Liquidfied. Frozen. Dripping on every wall and banging on each door. And these geniuses, freely, let themselves be drawn to it, and sometimes worst, even drown their peers in it.
The moon is already high in the night sky, reluctantly sharing its stage with thousands of stars. I sat myself firmly on the bed; eyes looking for no particular celestial image.
It was quiet.
The silence of midnight.
I found if funny, if not odd, that when I speak of darkness, I would always receive the same answer; darkness equals night. People are afraid of the night, not the dark. They welcome the dark while I welcome the night.
Night time, to me, poses no threat. There is always Mother Nature's gentle light, and if we listen close enough, a sound of an owl or a steady breath of children dreaming could be heard. And it is only in the dead of night that I truly find peace. No shouting. No running. No laughing. Absolute serenity. It is the only time when I can leave my attic room and travel along the halls of Wammy's. It is the only time that I can feel free.
Tonight, however, holds even more meanings than mere freedom and tranquility. Tonight marks the day he would come back. 12 more hours. 12 more hours and he would return.
Silently, I put on my "guard clothes", holster and gun readying myself for another security trip. One can never be sure if Wammy's might be unknowingly under attack. This place is the house of the greatest minds after all. There will always be a possibility, even though it was small, that terrorists, robbers or some naughty thieves want their chance to take a peek at the haven of future law and justice forces.
Closing the door behind me, I strode down the wooden staircase, avoid making it squeak as much as humanly possible. Tomorrow is a big day so everybody would need the utmost of their rest. I would need the utmost of my rest.
After a second round of going aimlessly but thoroughly around the quiet orphanage, my feet carried me to the kitchen. I love the place with all my heart. Roger knows about me and would always leave some form of late night (or early morning considering my active hours) snack. It was sometimes a box of cookies sometimes a plate of cold pizza or sometimes just simply a glass of milk. He's a good man and a good caretaker. He might be a little rough on the outside but sweet on the inside. Must has been hurt in the past that loving old gramps. And the constant tease and pranks from those he has to look after doesn't do much to lift the poor guy's heart.
Opening the fridge, I smiled to myself. A bowl of fruit. God bless Roger!
Greedily, I took the grapes out and start chewing down without a second thought. My stomach had already protested dinner. I had been sick these days so the thought of eating actual food must wait until my sensitive stomach recovers. Hence the fruit Roger left me. I told you he was a good man!
Striding around the kitchen, I marveled at the wonder of today's breakfast. I could see chicken soup served hot on the table in six more hours, bread and orange juice ready to be eaten and drank. But that's not all, candies and chocolates in that black drawer – Ms. Jane's secret drawer –Vegetables and corns in that red one. Oh what a wonder this kitchen is! Occasionally, if I was lucky enough, I could even meet some kids coming down for a "late night snack". They would share their food with me of course out of politeness or as bribery, I could never know. That, however, never lessened my liking for this place.
Today, and especially today, the kitchen preserves my special gift for him: Freshly baked cookies and strawberry shortcakes. This leads to another reason why I love the kitchen so much. The staff never, and I mean NEVER, lets a single kid get in. They always lock the door with a combination that only I would know or more realistically, only Roger would know and would let me on in (I don't see the point actually since I meet kids here from time to time but hey, who am I to say?).
Tip toeing through the utilities, I grabbed the carefully wrapped and decorated bags of cookies before locking the door and excused myself to a certain room right beneath mine. This room is always locked, and sadly enough, it's a lock that I don't have the key to. But you know what they say: If you can't find the key, break the lock!
Or in my case, pick it.
It took long and hard to make it through the old reliable security to the room. It took work but it was worth it. I crept into the room without a noise and open the window to let the air in. The room was big but too damp and dusty for people to live in. It dreads me to think that this was the room where he would reside for the next 2, or if I'm lucky, 3 weeks.
Moonlight drifts past as I swept the room and dusted off the shelf, an empty shelf. Looking around, I frowned slightly, there was nothing in the room except for a bed, a table and a shelf which didn't even have any books to fill in it. The state of this room was most depressing.
Finally done with the overall cleaning, I place the bags of cookies on the table arranging them to look presentable. He likes sweets, or so I've heard. It wouldn't hurt to try and make him some as it was one of my salvaged habits to bake anyway. Pleased with the way the food is arranged, I turned myself to the door and proceed back to my room.
- LIES OF THE LIGHT, KNIGHTS OF THE NIGHT -
C.S Lewis.
Charles Dickens.
Conan Doyle.
Kafka.
And my favorite: Edgar Allen Poe.
I ran though the names of authors before putting each book on the empty shelf. Uncertain of his choice of reading material, I prayed to God that he'd like at least one of those books from my collection as I made another trip to get the special strawberry mattress set that Roger grudgingly purchased for me on Christmas due to my desperate begging. It didn't seem like a good idea to put strawberry patterned sheet and blanket on a grown man's bed but the other sets were either dirtied or too small, and I certainly don't want him to sleep on an unmade bed.
Heaving heavily, I adjusted my gun before grabbing the whole mattress set down the stairs. Quietly leaping through the hall, I approached the room ahead. I paused, my eyes narrowing as the sounds of someone else's presence echoed through the halls.
'Thief!' – My mind screamed but I held my breath and gently put the sheet and blanket down.
Slowly, I reached for the gun secured on my side by the holster and closed the distance between me and the big shadow in the room. The thief's back was turned to me, thank God! So I place the barrel right on his/her head and whispered a warning:
- Shhhh…. – I coaxed quietly – The kids are asleep. We don't want to be rude and wake them now do we?
The thief nodded hesitantly so I continued:
- You've got a lot of nerve trying to steal from this place, especially this room. Now, hands where I can see 'em! And don't trying anything funny. You twitch, I shoot.
- Please – the thief said calmly, voice low, indicating that it was a "he" I was speaking to – I assure you. I am by no means a thief.
- Oh? – I chuckled mockingly – Why are you here at this unholy hour then? And keep this in mind, you little wanker that if I don't like your answer then I'll blow your- wait! – I exclaimed quietly – Are those cookies you're eating?! You broke in here just for cookies?
- They were on the table – The thief answered
- They're not for you – I said, lowering my voice to the "you're dead meat" tone.
- In that case, my deepest apologies.
Alright. It must have been a mistake but I just heard a thief said he was sorry for stealing right? A thief just said sorry right?! Has this world gone mad?
What an odd night this is turning out to be!
- T-That's alright…..I think? – I stuttered, unsure of my respond – Now go before everyone wakes up and I'll have to shoot you. Never come ba-
- I find your statement to be at fault – the thief interrupted. How rude of him! – If you shoot me, wouldn't the gun sound wake everyone up too?
Smirking triumphantly, I tighten my hands on the trigger, ready to shoot at any movement. This guy got guts. Well sadly for him, mine is bigger than his!
- Ever heard of the silencer, mate? Just one shot and no one will know you ever existed after I'm done with your body.
Letting my eyes dart across the room, I search for the man's possible accomplice whom I ultimately forgot in the first place. What kind of guard am I?! Can't even handle a thief right. To my surprise, I only found a travel bag laying right next to my feet. Silly little me, missing that big detail. Clearing my throat, I asked the thief again:
- What's in the bag?
No answer.
- What is in the bag, maggot? Or do you want to see your brain pouring out the next second?
- Clothes – the thief answered, annoyance present in his voice – But I do not think it is any of your concern. And if I may ask, who are you?
Without removing the gun or answering the man, I knelt down to open the bag. He was telling the truth. Bloody hell! What kind of thief carries a bag of clothes just to break into an empty room and help himself to some cookies?
Was he traveling?
Did he need money?
But this room had absolutely nothing. Why break in here?
Unless…..
- Blast it! – I squeaked as realization dawn on me – I am so sorry, love! Are you a 'new recruit'?! Roger must have let you in. Good lord! I'm so sorry!
Hurriedly, I put my gun away, helping the man stand up.
- Are you hungry then? – I asked dusting off his baggy white shirt – In that case, I'll show you the kitchen. Y-You shouldn't have eaten those sweets. T-They're for L.
- For L? – 'New recruit' mumbled in slight surprise.
- Yeah! I made them for him. But don't worry! – I assured, dragging him from the room to the staircase – I always make extra. If you want, I can get you some.
Keeping the quick walking pace but remained quiet, I let a grin cracked on my face as the new recruit once again nodded in agreement.
- Thank you. I would like some of those "extra" – He said, seemingly press on the last word.
- Okie dokie! – I laughed heartily – On with the show then! Don't tell anyone about me alright? I'm Lamé by the way, and welcome to Wammy's, honey! Now, got a name under all that shaggy hair of yours, mate?
- LIES OF THE LIGHT, KNIGHTS OF THE NIGHT -
- So, Leon – I started picking up yet another chocolate cookie from the tray – How old are you? You seem 19, 20 at most to me but your actions say otherwise.
- My actions? – "New recruit" or Leon, as he told me, asked – What do my actions suggest?
- I don't know – I answered shrugging slightly – You're odd. You're too old to be a Wammy kid, in my opinion, but also too young to be one, too. If you know what I mean.
Leon seemed to be thinking hard at my words, his eyes kept their gaze (more like stare) on me. I shifted nervously under his gaze. Don't get me wrong, I like Leon, he kept quiet and he liked my sweets, but his eyes are one heck of a nasty pair. I could have sworn they were as cold as Near's eyes. No, scratch that. They're colder. Leon's eyes are calculating and void. If I had a say, Leon would make a great candidate for L's successors.
- I am 23 – Leon spoke up snapping me out of trance.
- 23? Wow, that's…err… you're older than I thought. If I remember right then you're closed to L's age! That's so nice!
- You seemed eager to meet this L person.
- 'Course I am! L is amazing! – I laughed biting into yet another cookie – I'm really grateful to him! I want to repay him for what he did for me.
- Elaborate please – Leon said, more likely as an order than a request.
I hesitated. Should I tell him? I just met the guy. What if he tells the others? But Leon is a nice guy from what I could tell, and I don't want to lie to him. Shaking my head slightly, I smiled at Leon.
- Sorry, mate. I like you and all but this is some stuff that I can't simply tell you about. You'll just have to be satisfied with the fact that L gave me a home okay? Most of the kids here don't have one and this place give them a chance to be loved again. You'll get it when you stay here long enough.
- Is that so? - Leon mused as if unhappy with the answer I gave but thankfully didn't press on. I know it's weird for me to say this, especially when it involves an older man, but this guy, right now, look just like a kicked puppy with his sad eyes and shaggy black hair and hunching posture.
I have spent enough time in the orphanage to know and understand that each and everyone in this place including those coming this spring are freaks, 100% wacko. And the smarter they are, the weirder they seem (Heck even I'm a freak and I'm the stupidest kid in this house! Actually, I gave up trying to be normal a long time ago. If you can't beat them, join them right?). That is not to mention antisocial-wait, no. These kids are not antisocial. They're socially retarded. For example, there's Matt with his video games and 24/7 routine of staying cooped up inside his room. There's Mello with his shouting and hitting people. What happened to him anyway? He was a nice kid when he first came. A gentleman I dare say. And those two are among the most intellectual kids in the house. Thus Leon's quirks, sadly due to my experience, were no longer surprising or confusing.
- Who brought you here then, Leon?
- Watari.
- Watari? Oh, you mean Wammy? Must have been a rough ride then. That gramps sure is unpleasant.
This seemed to get a reaction out of Leon. His head snapped back at me and his eyes twitched slightly at my statement.
- Do explain – he said
- Well… let see. Okay, so L is the world greatest detective right? – I asked and continued as Leon nodded – So…oh this go way back to the time he is still in Wammy's. Let start from the beginning then. Quilsh Wammy is a super genius inventor or something of the sort. He used his money to build a bunch of orphanages around the world – keeping myself talk, I used some jam in the jar next to my leg and drew out somewhat of a mind map. Leon seemed to be uncomfortable with this, though. I wonder why? – L is the first kid he brought into the Wammy's House. Then came Alternative. Then came Backup. Then a few bunch of other kids. Then me. L moved out a long time before I was brought in so I never know his face. But I spent loads of time watching Backup since they say he looks most like L. I can't remember how he looks though. It's a problem with my head. But my room is also next to Alternative's room so I heard Backup and Alternative talked a lot. They seemed to have so much fun.
I stopped, lingering my jam coated finger on the letter B feeling sad at thinking of the past. B was the only one who would ask for my real name when I was brought here. He was the only one who cared. Letting out a sigh, I clenched my fist realizing how much I missed those two A and B. I've always regret being unable to answer B's question.
- Please continue – Leon urged.
- Alternative was chosen to be L's successor even though L wasn't dead yet. I told him to pass it down to Backup because I wanted to spend more time with him and because Backup was so hung up on the event. Do you know what he told me, Leon? 'The title of L will taint everything. I couldn't possibly put that burden on B. I love him a lot, especially his smile. I want him to keep smiling like that'. It was only later on that I wholly get what he meant. That boy…such a kind one he was and yet stupid at the same time.
I slumped my shoulders, stretched my arms and legs before lying on the floor of the rooftop. The sun was sneaking its way out now and I, for one, don't want to miss that.
- Alternative loves sunshine – I laughed bitterly pointing at the upcoming sun - heck he loves everything. Then Wammy came along with cases and puzzles, crimes and murders. He went out less and finally stopped going out altogether. One day, he hung himself. Just like that. No explanation. Old gramps Ruvie said it was the stress. In truth, I don't give a damn. Blasted kid should have quit when he still got a chance.
I sighed again, this time sitting back up, trying to copy Leon's sitting manner. Needless to say, I failed epically. So I settled myself with cross-legging and finishing my story.
- Not long after Alternative's funeral Backup changed. He…what's the word? Alienate? Yes! Alienated himself from all the kids. Eventually, he left Wammy's and killed three people. B likes art a lot, so even when he kills, he made it look artistic…err in his standards. Are you still with me, Leon?
- Yes – Leon nodded – Please carry on.
- Oh ok. Backup tried to kill himself too. But L and that FBI or CIA lady he worked with, I could have sworn she would make a good wife for him. The woman is hot and she's really smart and-
- That's irrelevant.
- Oh, right. Sorry – I chuckled sheepishly - I may be wrong but Leon you seem uncomfortable with the stuff I'm telling. Are you sure you want to hear the rest?
- Positive – he said sounding firm as the Banyan tree in a storm.
- Right then – Beaming at the guy, I continued - Where was I? Ah. Backup was caught and later on put into an asylum. Losing both his dream and his friend must have been real hard for him. And it all started because of Wammy. Two successors, one dead, one in jail. Broken and thrown away. What if L turned out like that one day? I mean I feel like Wammy is treating L as if he is an object too. He's trying to replace him. It's like one day the old man woke up and suddenly realized that 'Uh oh the greatest mind has his expire date.' Would L be thrown away too when that day come? What do you think, Leon?
I turned to the 23-year-old man with expectation (yes, I still can't believe that he's 23. So young, and so skinny too for a man of his age). He seemed to be thinking hard. His eyes were piercing into the pink-ish orange of the clouds above.
- I am not sure. This certainly worth a thought though.
- Really? – I gleamed – You're the first to say that! The kids I talk to brushed me off actually. They said I'm a Roger-pet. I'm not ok? Don't buy even a word they said. I just think that Roger is a better person than Quilsh. I mean Quilsh named the first successors Backup and Alternative. Who names kids like that?
I huffed already feeling annoyed of the thought of the man. I love A and B. They're the first brothers that I could remember, and they turned out like that thanks to him.
- I hate those names a lot so I called 'em A and B instead. I remember joking with them about their names too. A, B and what comes next? AB? O? But seriously though, I don't think Quilsh gave those two enough respect as people. They were so young and yet he treated them as if they were object and not human. I just don't get it you know. I mean-
My ramble did not live long. The annoying ringing of my cellphone cut through the air bringing me out of my talk.
- Aye? – I answered.
'Lamé? Come quickly, we have a problem.'
- Roger? What's wrong?
'It seemed that L had arrived.'
- That's great news!
'Yes. But he seemed to be missing.'
- Missing?! What do you mean missing?!
'He was supposed to be here a few hours ago. But we couldn't find him anywhere.'
- OK. I got it. I'll look for him too.
'Thank you, Lamé.'
- Alright. I'll see you later Roger.
I snapped the phone shut and quickly got to my feet.
- Sorry Leon – I said, frantically collecting the cookie wrapping - Looks like I have to go. L is missing. You can find you way down right?
- Wait, I think-
- I'll talk to you later ok? Go straight down the first floor and ask for Mr. Roger ok? He'll get you a room.
And off I ran, not caring how much my sensitive stomach hurts. I waited for 5 years to see him already. This time I won't miss him. Yes, I won't let anything stand in the way of my meeting with L.
- LIES OF THE LIGHT, KNIGHTS OF THE NIGHT –
L strode along the hall of Wammy House towards his room. The running and shouting has stopped after his encounter with Watari when he was getting down from the roof. Closing the door, he kicked off his shoes and jumped on the bed.
"The title of L will taint everything…"
The words of that strange kid echoed in his mind. What a peculiar child she was. L had thought so since he saw her wear this Japanese martial art uniform with black hakama, red gi with white cherry blossom adornment, possibly due to tradition. Lamé, as he had concluded from her speech pattern, is definitely part Asia, and most likely Japan. Yes, L could be at least 79% certain that this girl is Japanese (actually 82, considering the traditional red and white fox mask she was using). The children at Wammy's were multinational. This is one thing that L finds interesting. It increases the chances of choosing the best candidates to succeed him. He had heard that Japanese are among the brightest and most creative. Adding the focused and motivated with that and L would probably have one promising successor. From what he saw a few hours back, this Lamé definitely had potential. She was not perfect, but she could be turned into so if given enough time. L mused to himself about his choices. Lamé certainly was a good bet. She valued tradition but used modern weapon. 'Follow the rules and regulations, but break them if needed be. Yes, she is a good bet indeed' – L thought hard poking at the strawberry decorating his bed reminding himself to talk to Roger about Lamé's position and rank after he have a word, a serious word, with said man about letting children carry weapons inside the house. And on that note too, ask the manager as to why the girl wold him to not tell anyone about their encounter.
A gentle knock on the door raised his curiosity.
- Sir? – Watari said from the other side.
- Come in, Watari – L answered, returning his thought to the unusual little girl. What she said truly did perk his interest.
Without knowing what was on the detective's mind, the old man smiled at his young 'master' before closing the door behind him.
- Oh my, it would seem that your room has been cleaned up beforehand! – said Watari partly bewildered.
- Yes, that girl cleaned it.
- A girl, sir? – Watari asked looking fascinated.
- Yes. She said her name was Lamé.
- Ah, I see – Watari chuckled – I take it that you talked to her.
- Correct – L nodded picking the cookie bag up and examined it with his thumb and index finger. Strawberry. He smirked just a tad – And I must say, it was quite an interesting encounter.
Watari smiled yet again as he put one of Edgar Allen Poe's book in its original place. 'Novels?' – L thought slightly surprised at the sight – 'and so many genres at that. Were those hers? This undoubtedly leaves quite a few leads.' The young detective faintly held out a book before him. 'Old and used. 70% chance that Lamé has read this more than once. Of course there is also the possibility that those books don't belong to her alone. They might have been read by the other kids'
- Would you like to rest, L? – The older man spoke gaining L's attention.
- That's ok Watari. Could you arrange a meeting with my successors? - L turned to him - And please get Ms. Lamé for me too. I heard she baked a cake for me.
- LIES OF THE LIGHT, KNIGHTS OF THE NIGHT -
To say I'm excited is an understatement. The other kids had found L just 15 minutes after Roger's phone call and now he asked for me. Me! And the fact that Wammy was the one who delivered the news did not spoil it one bit. Good lord! I knew all the good work I have done would pay off someday! Oh, what should I say when I meet him? Should I show him the cake? He'd like it right? God, why am I so nervous? I'm feeling so silly!
Running frantically across the room, I searched for my nicest outfit possible. Digging through a messy pile I called 'clothes' in the closet, I pulled out a light blue sweater with a deer on it, a pair of jeans shorts and long black stocking. Brushing my unruly tom-boy-cut black hair, and feeling good about my look reflected in the mirror, I jumped for the door.
Aaaand the universe just had to choose that moment to give me a stomachache. I clutched my left side whimpering slightly at the sudden jolt. Was it the fruits? No, it couldn't be. They're just fruits! What could be wrong with fruits?
Grumbling I dashed off to the kitchen for some ginger to calm the growling beast in my belly. Oh, I do hope this won't stop me from seeing L. I want to thank him. No wait, forget that. I will thank him, and this is one "Thank you so much!" that would leave him speechless! He can count on it!
- LIES OF THE LIGHT, KNIGHTS OF THE NIGHT -
L was still thinking to himself when a black clad silhouette bolted through the cafeteria's doors who were following closed behind was a red head boy with his eyes glued to the Gameboy in hands. Ah yes, Mello and Matt.
- Hello L! – said the blonde little boy with a hint of excitement.
- Good morning, Mello – L said calmly – Good morning, Matt.
- Yo – was the red head's succinct response.
And L went back to his thoughts as the two boys did their own things. He had talked to Roger about Lamè's and what he found was most unsatisfying. She lacked nearly every exam results and was put last in the monthly rank. L bit his thumb fervently recalling his talk to the old caretaker.
- Why do you allow her to keep weapon inside Wammy, Roger? I believe it is a violation to our regulations to do so? – L started.
- I-I understand, L – Roger stuttered - But this is what Lamé wants to contribute to the house. She wants to be its guard.
- And why may I ask that she choose this dangerous "guarding" activity rather than study and aim for the title of L? Surely she must know that her acts will be frown upon?
- Yes, she does – the old man sighed – However, she refuses to use her brain. I am afraid that her mind is set. Lamè wishes to practice weaponry and martial arts. She also wishes to stay that way until she leave the house.
- How long has this been going on? – L frowned thoughtfully. This is an unexpected trait to write on Lamé's list. And L, personally he doesn't enjoy surprises, especially when it's not him who causes it.
- Ever since A died – Roger said quietly.
'Ever since A died' - the detective ruminated about this new found fact - 'Yes, she did seem to have a strong connection with A and B. Their fates must have taken quite a toll on her. Hmm… It appears that I must re-evaluate this girl. Her vulnerability to losses could be her undoing. And there is also that white mask she wore when we first met. Was she trying to hide her identity? This can serve a good point in her position'
- Is there something on your mind, L?
The familiar voice distracted L. Mildly irritated at the distraction, the detective rose from his seat and put on his shoes to go and call for Watari. It was already tea time and a good cup of sugary Earl Grey would do his thinking mind some good. L could feel his mouth watered slightly at the thought of sugar. He nodded quickly at Near before moving towards the kitchen's direction.
- Hello, Near – he said deciding to pull out his phone and call Watari instead. There were no need for "exercising his body" as the old man put it. 'No battery' – he cursed mentally – 'I thought I reminded Watari to charge the phone'
Musing silently to himself, L realized quickly that this low battery phone was highly likely a trick from his caretaker to get him to "move around" (again, in said man's words).
- About your question – the detective said moving towards the door - Yes, I do have some businesses to think about.
L stopped mid-step. His head whipped back to the three boy presented in the room startling Mello a little.
- Have you by any chance came across a little girl in traditional Japanese clothes and white mask? – He asked looking straight at them.
The answer L received was most quizzical.
- Yes – said both Mello and Near with great emotion, or in Near's case a tad more than usual. And is that alert L sense in Near's answer?
- Please tell me about her – he pressed on feeling interested.
- She's the ghost – Mello replied after a good few minutes.
- A ghost? Please elaborate – L hummed quietly to himself. A ghost? How illogical.
- We called her "The ghost of Wammy house" – Mello said pursing his lips– She has been here for as long as we know it. We don't talk to her and we aren't sure who she is or where she came from but she always knows when someone is messed with and comes to their rescue. It's rare to come across her though.
- Is there a problem, L? – Near chimed in right at the hill of Mello's words.
- No – L answered distractedly – Interesting. Rarely seen you say?
The fact was interesting indeed. From what he heard, this little girl had the sense of justice and ability to see to it. Yet she refuses to utilize her thoughts and logic to execute this "sense of justice" of her. What if she does use her brain? How smart will she get? Maybe he should personally put her to a test.
The cafeteria doors flew open as a small figure dashed through it.
- Leon!
L jumped slightly at the name and the new voice. What was the saying again? Ah yes. Speak of the devil.
- Hello, Lamé – He nodded once again thinking to himself. She still had no idea. Should he reconsider his choice then? Her deducting skills implied to be extremely low.
- Did you see Roger, dear? Are you here for L too? I bet L wants to see the new kid huh? Look! I made cake! We can share them with L, if you want! – Lamé spoke. Incessantly must he add as she put her shortcake tray down on the table – Did you get a room? Do you like it here? Dinner can be a drag but please don't tell Ms. Jane that okay? I do NOT want to get into trouble with that woman. Speaking of which, you shouldn't too. Come! – She gestured and the jumped at him when he did get closer – I'll let you have a look at these cakes! How 'bout I tell you what I did today?
Unaware of the other three boys inside the room – one very amused, one very furious and one indifferent with a hint of shock – the girl keep up with her babbling. L's head was alarmingly starting to hurt. This girl can truly be a source of annoyance when she wants to with her non-stop talking. This could be a good method for interrogation however. L mentally noted the idea down though he himself would probably not going to use it for absolutely a while. He could hire Lamè's for the job, but most of his work is classified or highly dangerous (for him of course) and her mouth could bring about some unwanted problems. Not to mention her tendency to act too intimately towards total strangers, who in this case: L and other cases (were they to indeed occur): criminals.
- SHUT UP! – Finally unable to cope with the one-sided intimacy, Mello bellowed – Just shut up! Why the hell are you even here anyway?!
Turning her head, Lamè sent a look at the blonde both in a form of a glare and a gaze of confusion. Prying the little girl off, L walked towards the short cake and picked one up before promptly ate it in front of Lamé's widened eyes.
- Wait! – She called out – Those are for L! We have to wait for him to eat first!
Yes, he would be reconsidering her future position indeed.
- What are you talking about?! – Mello yelled at her – That is L!
Impossibly (in L's aspect) fast, Lamé's head snapped back at the detective and she ran forward him. For a moment he was quite frightened at the thought that she might take away those cakes as a result of her anger, so when she halted right in front of his face and stood there staring at him (probably trying to process the new fact. It would seem that she, though dense, is not stupid), the young man let out an inaudible sigh of relief.
- Y-You-You're L? – She spoke scrutinizing at his every facial feature.
- Yes – He answered calmly taking in another bite of cake.
- It can't be! You told me your name was Leon!
L mentally shook his head. Too naïve. This is one thing that the next L should never possess. He was starting to doubt her logical ability now. Quite obviously, Lamé had forgotten that they were living in a house packed with children and their aliases. Does this girl have any observation skill at all? Or was this another act of her "I'm not using my brain" plan? Should he continue with the test he was going to put her through? It would be a problem if she purposefully fail that test (that it if she knows how to. Were that to happen then L would probably rethink entirely about hers and at least Matt's ranking in this orphanage)
- I was using an aliases, Lamé. If I recall correctly so did you – said the detective.
- T-T-That's-Blewrgh!
L stood. Frozen and stiffened the strawberry shortcake still in hand. Then, he frowned. Deeply and openly as his three successors were gaping for words with their mouths ajar.
This girl.
This child.
This Lamé.
This in process-of-being-consider-successor had just done something that was entirely unexpected to L.
She had vomited on him.
TDS: Review guys!
Lamé: Get your keyboards on, mates!
Mini-Matt: show the girl some love, people.