A/N: With these drabbles, I am going to explore various attitudes/outlooks L and Light may have regarding their humanness, and to what extent/what manner do they indulge their nature (or resist it). This first piece reflects an attitude of jaded resignation, and a calculated indulgence of humanness.

Here's slight cynicism and black humor for ya. :)

Corrupt and Conquer

"Hypocrite."

The word itself was accusatory, but L's smile and tone betrayed amusement.

(Even praise, though a tired and jaded sort.)

"So Kira-kun honestly considers me more interesting than mass-murder and world dominance?"

"The bored have a very good eye for these kinds of things, L." The self-appointed god absently twirled his killing pen as he relaxed in his chair. "And given the amount of resources and energy requisite for world dominance versus maintaining a relationship with you, I think you are well aware of which yields more benefits with the least expense."

"I would think that the lack of expense would be under-stimulating to you."

"Expense was just the most convenient substitute for a dire lack of intellectual companionship, which you will readily provide me. "

'So certain, Kira-kun… I guess he figures etiquette is a waste of breath because he knows I won't decline.'

"…So your dream of reforming the world, becoming god, and exacting your justice?"

"A game is a game. Sometimes we grow tired of how we choose to distract ourselves."

Had he been talking to anyone other than L, he may have been rewarded with a look of disgust or horror at his flippant attitude. L simply gave him a smile of kinship, because his own values were no more commendable. He understood—justice was simply a pretty lacquer for self-interest.

Because really, connotations and human welfare aside, good will was merely another distraction.

"You're moving on, then."

"Aa."

"How do you plan to clean up your messes?"

"You can do that efficiently with your influence."

"Considering the circumstances, that's a highly unreasonable request."

"But you won't decline."

"Kira-kun knows me well."