Cosmok13: Welcome back, everyone, to episode 24 of Life Note. Sorry about not updating, I've been working hard on a lot of other stories and some art projects, so my schedule for uploading has been very complicated. But, I certainly hope you all enjoyed the previous chapter. For all of you Death Note fans who have read "Another Note; The Los Angeles BB murder case," I have a feeling you loved the last chapter and will love the next few chapters. With that said, let us dive right into the next episode.
Summary: L agrees to meet with the kidnapper to try and save Laura.
Chapter 25: Episode 24: B
Black eyes stared out into the early morning light. L was on top of the roof of the building he lived in, staring as the sun was rising from the ground, trying to shine in the sky. He hadn't slept ever since he had gotten that message about Laura's kidnapping. He had so much on his mind that he couldn't even comprehend an ideal scenario for the situation at hand. All he could really do at this point was to follow through on the demands. Hence why he was here in the first place, waiting to find the one who would give him what he needed to get Laura back.
The morning wind blew his jet black hair behind him. His hands in his pockets and he looked out on the city. He wondered what so many of his companions were doing right now. What Lamore, Light, and Mako were up to. What the people of the city were going to do today. He also wondered how far B was going to take this kidnapping ordeal and how much he had already planned ahead. And what will become of Laura even after L saves her? No, what mattered was that L had to save Laura! She needed him now more than ever! If he left her alone any longer with that beast, she would surely be eaten alive.
"If you are there, Sessho, then please show yourself," L said to the air around him. He was sure the Shinigami was watching him. Being the guardian of Laura, the God of Death had to make sure he was doing his half of the bargain.
The Shinigami knight descended to the roof with his black leather wings flapping and landing him on the floor. Sessho was behind L, who was staring at his back. His eyes transfixed on the human's backside, and showing little to no amusement or joy whatsoever. "I'm glad you showed up. I'm sure you understand why I needed you here."
"You have failed your job," Sessho coldly stated.
"It's true that I let Laura get in danger, and I take full responsibility for my lack in doing my job properly. I do not blame you for hating me. I let Laura down." L turned around to finally face the Shinigami. "But… I'm going to get her back if it's the last thing I do. I can't do that, though, without the Death Note. I need you to give me the Death Note that originally belonged to Laura." L reached out his hand and waited for the object to drop in his palm.
However, Sessho wasn't too convinced, as he crossed his arms and raised his brow. "What makes you think I would just hand it over to you like that?" he questioned.
"You do not need a Death Note anymore with your Death Weapon. I understand that you wanted to keep it to try and preserve your memory of Laura as a Shinigami, but if I am going to free Laura, I need to trade for her with a Death Note. Besides… we both know that Death Note should have belonged to me all those years ago anyways," L added.
Sessho stared at L for a moment longer. All the things he said were true. If Laura did have a chance of survival, then the Death Note had to be sacrificed to the one who was holding her captive. "You do realize who this man is, correct? You obviously know much about him."
"Yes, we have had our communications back then. I'm fully aware of the crimes he committed and what he is capable of."
"And yet you still want to give him such a weapon?" Sessho questioned.
"Unfortunately, there is nothing I can do except agree to his demands. If I don't, he'll take it out on Laura. I know what the Death Note can do, and having it in the hands of such a man is just the apocalypse alone. But I will do anything to save Laura from his grasp. And I am more than prepared to deal with the consequences of my actions," L assured Sessho.
The Shinigami was still somewhat questioning what this human was doing. Or rather what he planned on doing. Still, he was willing to do whatever it took to get Laura back. And he could understand. "... Alright… If this will help Laura, then I will go along with it." Sessho reached into his light red scarf and pulled out the black Notebook. He held it for L to get a good look at it. His form shook as he looked at the same Notebook that caused so much trouble so long ago. That took so many lives, innocent and criminal. The one that Kira used to try and become God of the New World. And the very same pages of paper that killed him. But, even if B did get this Notebook, he couldn't use it to kill L. Nor could he use it to kill Laura, Lamore, Light, or Mako. But there were other people that could be in potential danger. "Understand a few things, Lawliet…" Sessho began as he was now closer to the former detective, still holding the Death Note. "Once I drop this on the ground and you pick it up, then you will own this Notebook. Unless you give it up or lend it to someone. I will not tell you how to use this Notebook, especially when you already have a good idea of what your plans are. But know that this Notebook holds powers beyond that of what you humans can comprehend. Even Light Yagami, who was once Kira, didn't understand the full extent of what this Notebook can do and what it means in this realm and mine. But, this man who you will give it to, must understand fairly well of what this Notebook can do. And one can guess what he will do with such a weapon. Yet you still want to give it to such a man?"
"It is either that, or he keeps Laura. He is giving me no choice…" L stated.
Sessho lifted his eyebrows. "Very well…" Sessho held the Notebook high, then dropped it on the ground. Slowly, L picked up the Notebook and looked at the cover. It was just a black cover, nothing special on it. L looked at the back, and nothing either. He opened the Notebook and flipped through some of the pages. When he got to the very first page on the back of the front cover, he saw there was some white writing. Even stranger, it was actually a form of Japanese, but an ancient one. Still, he was able to translate.
Family… Mother, Father, and Brother…
L was somewhat confused by the words and their meaning. However, he didn't have time to decipher the strange text and what it could have meant to Laura back then. He looked back up at Sessho and nodded. "Thank you for giving me Laura's Notebook. I know that when I give this up, it will not end well. But once I know that Laura is safe, I'll figure out a way to get it back from B so he won't do much damage."
"Lawliet, the reason I am allowing you to have this Notebook is so Laura can be saved. But, I want you to keep your promise that you will rescue Laura from that man." Sessho grabbed the handle of his sword and slide it from his sheath. He then pointed it towards L so the point was near his nose. "And if you do not keep your promise and she dies, then I will keep my promise and kill you."
L stared at the Shinigami, ignoring the weapon pointing at his face. He knew that Sessho would state this to him. He was in charge of looking after Laura and Lamore, and Sessho was in charge of killing off L or Light if they failed their job. The sword was drawn away from him as he kept his eyes transfixed on Sessho. "I understand. And if anything happens, I will pay for it. Nothing else matters to me than protecting Laura." He eyed the Death Note again, and held it tightly between his fingers. "I owe it to her."
Sessho nodded as he understood. "Take care of her," he stated as he lifted off into the sky. L watched him leave. He would be sure to do what he had to do.
Matsu knocked on the door leading towards L's room. He was told to come see him early that morning and not to tell anyone about this. Matsu didn't question it too much. He assumed that it was-hopefully-something about Laura. But if so, then why was L only telling him this? Either way, he had a feeling he would get some answers if he showed up. And if not, he would demand answers. He had been left alone in the dark for too long about everything. After he had knocked, he waited for a response.
"It's open. You may come in." L responded on the other side. Matsu reached for the door handle, turned the knob, and entered. There, he saw L standing in the center of the room. He scratched his leg with his left foot, hands in his pockets. Matsu stared at him for a while as L looked back at him with his faceless expression. "Thank you for coming at such an early hour, Matsu."
"This is about Laura, isn't it?" Matsu questioned. "I'll only stay here if you give me the answers I need."
L kept his eyes on the man. If he was going to go through with this, he needed Matsu to help him. And at this point, he had to admit what he could. As long as he didn't talk too much about the case, and give him what he needed to know, it should be fine. "Yes…" L admitted. Matsu closed the door behind him and looked back at L. The former detective continued. "Unfortunately, she is being held captive at the moment."
"What!?" Matsu gasped. "Is she okay!?"
"Her kidnapper sent me a message requesting for a trade for her. He has done some physical damage to her, but at the moment, she is alive."
Matsu sighed in relief. "Well, that's good at least." He looked back up at L. "So, what is it that we're trading her for?"
"I'm afraid I cannot tell you that much. But I will tell you that it is a dangerous weapon. The same one that Kira used all those years ago." Matsu gasped again by what L was saying. Before he could put in his own sense, L went on. "I will not tell you how I got this weapon, and I do admit that the idea of handing it over to such a man is a hazard waiting to happen to so many people. But if we do not comply to his request, he will kill Laura. He is tying our hands at the moment." Matsu's eyes widened and he gulped down his guilt in his throat.
"I understand. We have no choice in the matter. Thanks for sharing this with me."
"The real reason I'm telling you this is because I require your assistance." Matsu seemed confused again. So he let L go on. "I am to meet with Laura's kidnapper tonight to exchange her for the weapon I hold. However, I am unable to get there by myself. Which is why I need you to guide me there."
"Oh I get it! You want me and the others to come with you so we can stage an ambush and rescue Laura!" Matsu seemed really energetic and hopeful for that one moment. Undforuntantly, L had to rain on his parade.
"I'm afraid you are wrong." Matsu blinked and was confused again. "This man that we are dealing with is very twisted. He will not hesitate to kill Laura if something goes wrong. In other words, if we were to do something against his back, he will most likely kill the hostage. We have to cooperate with him or else we could all be in jeopardy."
"But… if we aren't planning anything, then why do you need me to come with you?"
"I need someone to be there with me in case things go wrong. If I am unable to help out Laura, then someone should be there just in case. You will not come with me for the exchange, but you will be a backup in case things go wrong. I am only able to trust you with this because you and Laura have been close for so long and you are the only one who will act without thinking. In that case, it could be a good thing because you will know based on your instinct when to show up and follow along."
"So, I'm your distraction in case something goes wrong?" Matsu asked.
"It is more like you will be there to help out if the situation escalates at an alarming rate. You have a gun, right?" L asked.
"Yeah, I got my license a few years back, so I'm able to carry one around. I don't usually take it with me on cases because bullets don't affect spirits much…" Matsu sort of laughed at the last line.
"I want you to take it with you tonight," L told him. "Just in case." Matsu became serious and understood the order. He nodded. "We will leave when nighttime falls. We have to be there at 12:01 sharp. For every minute we are late, he will hurt the hostage." Matsu was concerned for a moment at the words, but nodded again in sternness. "One more thing, you must not tell anyone about this exchange. If they do, it will cause a panic and they may go off and do something dangerous and stupid."
"Oh… I got it… I swear I won't tell anyone. Only if it means to help Laura."
"Thank you. You're the only one I can truly trust with this assignment at the moment." And it was true. L only had Matsu to rely on at this point. If he told Light, he would overreact and would try to strategize which may get Laura killed. Lamore would end up going in there on her own and probably get herself and Laura killed. Net would most likely only watch everything go down and just get everyone informed anyway. He couldn't call the Task Force or the SPK. They both would take action and that was the last thing he needed. Matsu was the only one who could help because he would follow orders if it meant saving Laura's life. And he would know when to get involved if things went wrong. Yes, he would be a good partner on this trade. "You may leave now, Matsu. I'll call you when it is time to leave."
"Understood," Matsu nodded. And with that, he opened the door and walked out of the room. Leaving L alone. At this point, all he could do was wait until nightfall. He only hoped that Laura would be safe until then.
The last morning class Lamore had for the day was over. She gathered her things from her desk and walked out of the classroom. She had a break between her last morning class and her first evening class. She'd figured she would take this break by getting some lunch and hanging out with her friends. Something to take her mind off of everything that has happened these last couple of days. Between Laura going missing and the relationship status between her and her friends, she was trying to be a normal girl in the hopes that it will help her focus on more uplifting matters instead of worrying about the things she was unable to control. She just had to believe that Laura was going to be okay and show up soon. Just because she wasn't in the classes today, didn't mean she wouldn't show up tomorrow. She'll be back, she always comes back.
Lamore was walking down the hallway thinking of heading back to her grandparents home to cook something for lunch. That was until a familiar voice stopped her. "Lamore-chan!" Lamore swung her head around and watched as her friend approached her with a smile on her face. "Good morning! Lamore-chan!"
"What do you mean, good morning?" Lamore laughed as she turned her whole body around placing her hands on her hips and a smile on her face. "The morning classes are already over."
"Hehe… you know I've always been bad when it came to telling time," Yuki laughed with her. Lamore and her walked down the halls together. As they began, Lamore couldn't help but be reminded of their greeting. She thought back to that day on November 1st, 2018 when they had a similar conversation like this one. Lamore rummaged through her pockets and took out her cell phone and looked at the date. November 11th, 2019. That day… exactly one year and ten days ago… that was the day when her life changed. Some parts were for the better, but there had been some downfalls as well. She couldn't believe how long ago it was, and yet it was still fresh in her mind as she remembered the crisp air of the graveyard as she listened to the silence, except for the fluttering of pages. It made her wonder, what would have happened to her now if she never would have gotten the Life Note that day? Where would she be now? And where would any of her friends be right now? "Lamore! Earth to Lamore-chan!" Yuki poked her in the arm.
Lamore turned her head and looked at her friend with a confused and dazed look. "Huh?"
"I asked if you wanted to come with me and get some lunch? Since we don't have any classes until later on, we could hang out for a bit," Yuki suggested.
"O-oh! Yeah!" Lamore nodded with a smile as she tucked her phone away in her pockets. Gaining some enthusiasm. "Sorry, I had to check something. I'm free!"
"Great! Don't worry, I'll buy for the both of us." Yuki smiled. "Courtesy of the Takahashi couple. Thanks again for watching Rem the other night."
"Don't worry about it. She was a little angel and she was fun to hang around. She's very smart for her age," Lamore noted.
"I still can't believe that you didn't keep the money for yourself. You were the one that really watched her."
"But it was you who originally took the job and I didn't want the money anyways. It's only fair you get the profits," Lamore assured.
"I just feel bad for troubling you with babysitting when it was my job to begin with," Yuki admitted.
"It wasn't a bother. You told me ahead of time, so at least I was prepared. Though, next time you babysit, make sure it's not on an important date such as the anniversary of your brother's health," Lamore stated as both a joke and some wisdom.
"That's why I wanted to invite you to lunch. To show my appreciation of your work and to thank you. And don't say I don't have to, because I really want us to just hang out."
"Yeah, I'll accept," Lamore agreed. She figured that this lunch with Yuki would help her take her mind off of things even more. And it has been awhile since the two of them really had hung out as friends. Being Tenshi and worrying about Lamore's comrades really ate up a lot of her social life. Even though she kept up with a good facade, it was still exhausting going from one life to another. Yuki kept talking for a bit longer, but Lamore didn't hear what she was saying. Lost in her own world and thoughts for a while, she walked with her friend. "I don't know why, but I feel that things are just too calm around here lately. Even though we learned about Laura's past and that she declined Near's proposal, there's just something else that I feel isn't right. I wonder… am I just being paranoid? Or is something really going to happen soon?"
Lamore looked over her shoulder and saw the door to Light's class wide open. She saw him gathering a few papers and looking at a few things. He certainly was preoccupied with his job. Even more than he usually was. "Lamore? Are you evening listening?" Yuki asked her friend in a huff. The brunette turned around and saw her friend. "I was asking you which restaurant you wanted to go to."
"O-oh! Sorry. How about we just go to Makudonarudo? ( AN: Japanese McDonald's, or rather how you say McDonalds in Japanese.) I don't mind some carbs in my system today," Lamore giggled.
"Well, you're skinny anyways. You really should put on a few pounds. You make the rest of us feel insecure," Yuki stated.
"I'm 120 pounds. That's the average weight for many females, you know," Lamore stated. She looked back over at Light in the room and saw he was still doing his work. She turned back to Yuki real quick and plastered a smile on her face. "Hey, I need to talk with Mr. Hideki about something real quick. Can you wait for me outside?"
"Uh… sure." Yuki seemed hesitant to really answer at first, but decided to go along with it as she headed down the hall.
Lamore felt guilty for letting her friend go without her. However, there was something that she needed to talk about with Light. She walked into the classroom and announced herself. "Mr. Hideki?" Light turned around to see Lamore standing at the doorway. Her soft brown eyes looking at him as a small smile was plastered on her face. "S-sorry to bother you."
"Uh… no, it's fine. Is something wrong?" Light asked as he finished up stacking the papers.
"O-oh… n-not really." Lamore flushed as she looked down at the ground. "I was just… making sure you were holding up okay. You and Ryuzaki…" Why was she so nervous all of a sudden? Was it because she was asking about Laura and she was kind of embarrassed with how Light would say to just drop the matter entirely.
"Actually…" Light began. "I haven't seen Ryuzaki all day. He hasn't come in this morning, we ended up getting a substitute for his class."
Lamore looked back at him with a stare of curiosity and concern. "Wait… now Ryuzaki is gone? Did you try calling him?!"
"Yeah, I called him this morning, but he didn't pick up," Light answered. Lamore was just confused and worried at this point. First Laura ended up disappearing after she declined Near's offer to be part of his team. And now, L was missing too. Lamore really hoped that this was just a mere coincidence… but nothing was a coincidence anymore. She feared for the worse when it came to her friends. But then again… as Lamore thought about it… what if after the talk with L… he went off to go and find Laura on his own? He was unpredictable and it seemed something he would do. Perhaps he felt guilty about not being there for Laura and he wanted to make it up to her. But if he really was looking for Laura, would he be alright? He was smart, but what if he would face an opponent? He did know some defense moves, though. He seemed more than capable of defending himself. And perhaps if the two did meet up again, this would give them a chance to really connect. And maybe they would tell something about each other that they do not know just yet. Now that Lamore thought about it… the two of them should just be alone together and talk about their feelings… Perhaps it will clear the air between them a bit. "Lamore?" The female looked up at Light and shook her head.
"No… it's nothing, really." She tried to play it off as if she wasn't thinking of anything in the last few moments. "I'm sure Ryuzaki is fine out there. He's a grown man and can take care of himself. And who knows, maybe he even found Laura and the two of them are pouring their hearts out to one another," she smiled and laughed at the last line. Light just stared at her for a moment in utter disbelief. Lamore could sense the uneasiness from him, so she tried to change the subject. "Anyways, me and Yuki are going out to lunch today and I don't want to keep her waiting. I'll see you later…" Lamore turned her body around and headed back for the door.
"Lamore…" Light stopped her as she was in the doorway. "Are you… sure you're alright?" Lamore just stood there… holding onto the door frame as she did not lift her eyes from the floor nor did she turn her head to look at him. She put on her best fake accent and answered.
"Yes… I should let it be like you said." She didn't give him time to respond as she hurried out of the classroom and left Light alone at his desk. He lowered his gaze and sighed.
"What's wrong with me?" he asked himself. "I know Lamore is upset about just dropping this deal about Laura, but I can't shake the feeling that I, myself, should be just as worried. Now L isn't here and it just seems too calm around here. Is there really something going on that we don't know about?" Light placed the remaining papers away and looked out the window as he saw many clouds gathering in the sky. That was never a good omen. "L… if there is something happening that you know about, you better know what you are doing. And come out of it alive…"
The night sky was obscured by the dark clouds that had gathered earlier that day. A car drove through the streets towards the destination where everything was about to happen. L was in the back seat as Matsu drove. With every mile they came closer to their destination, L became more unsure about how things were going to go down. He knew that B was probably planning something that would give him the advantage of the exchange. And even if L were to give the Death Note to him, there's no way he would be willing to let the two just walk away like that. The former detective will have to be prepared and ready to fight him if it came down to that. The only question he had to ask himself: could he be able to defend Laura as well? And would the kidnapper go as far as to even assassinate Laura? He threatened it a bunch of times last night, so he wouldn't put it past him if he would go that far. He should know by now that this man would do anything to win, no matter how much blood he got on his hands. He was a mad man… a murderer… a kidnapper… and worse… He was once someone who lived under the same roof as L and Laura.
The former detective looked out the window at the clouded sky as he thought deeply, "I'll be handing over the Death Note to a psychotic murderer. In exchange for Laura's life." Though he knew the cause and effect reaction this could bring, he had to do something or Laura would be lost forever. He hated the very idea of having someone such as B use such a deadly weapon on his own accord. And yet, he was still going through with the plan. "In all of my years as L, never had I ever done something such as this. It is clear that B is going to be using both his mental and physical abilities," L noted mentally. "But, I took you down once, B, and I'll do it again," he promised. Though, back then, he had Naomi Misora to be his proxy out in the field. This time he was doing this on his own, which was a disadvantage for L. A minor setback, that he will have to get by.
The car stopped a block away from the location where the exchange would take place. L looked at the dashboard and saw that it was 11:53 PM. Just a few more minutes, and it would be the exact same time for L to be at the destination. He looked up at the driver seat where Matsu was staring at him. "Is this close enough?" he asked. L looked outside and saw that it was only a block away from the destination, but with the alley they were in, it would be hard for anyone to spot the car.
"This will do," he said to Matsu.
"So, you're really going to go through with this? No tricks or anything?" Matsu asked.
"If we attempt something, then B will likely kill the hostage," L stated. "I've had my experience with the man before; he will do the unpredicted if it meant his advantage."
"But if what you say is true, then that means you could be walking into a trap," Matsu pointed out.
"There is a high percentage of that being true, but all he wants is the item I have. If I play along and give him what he wants, then he will most likely be satisfied and let us walk away." Though he was lying to Matsu at this point, he needed him to not be so worried in case his emotions would hinder the mission and get them all killed. And no matter how small the chance, it still was a possibility. "Besides, all that matters is saving Laura. If I can at least get her away from him, that will be all that is needed to do."
"But… what about you?" Matsu asked. "Will you be okay in there with him by yourself?"
"Matsu…" L was very serious at this point, which meant Matsu had to listen carefully. "If Laura dies, then I will die as well. If I die, she will just live. Listen to me. Once everything has taken place, I'll send Laura on her way outside. Take her back to headquarters and treat her if she has any wounds. Do not wait for me. No matter how much she wants to turn around, to come back for me, keep going and do not look back. Understood?"
Matsu stared at L as he told him the plan. He was really willing to risk his life to save Laura. Just like he had saved her all those years ago… Laura was right… he was a good person who cared about her. He slowly nodded. "I understand."
"Thank you." L reached out to his side and opened the car door. Before he began to climb out, he turned back and looked at Matsu. "If neither one of us is out of that place within a half an hour, then you may take any action you feel is necessary, so long as it is on your own." Again, Matsu nodded with more enthusiasm this time. L then left the car, Death Note on his back hidden by his white shirt. He began to walk the street heading towards the warehouse where B and Laura were waiting. This was it, no turning back now. If he didn't go through with it, then Laura would end up paying with her life. And at least if he did this, he would get some intel into what B would be planning. And perhaps even get some answers to his questions. He stood in front of the door of the warehouse where the trade would go down. He decided to be somewhat polite and knock on the door, just to make sure this was the place. After a moment, he heard a response.
"Thank you for coming on such short notice, oh great L." A voice speaker sounded somewhere that he could not pinpoint where. He just kept staring at the front entrance, knowing that B was watching.
"I brought what you want. Let me in so we can get this over with," L demanded.
"No need to be so impatient… The door is open. Come right in." He sounded like a host inviting his guest in for a treat or something. It made L sick to his stomach that this psychotic man seemed to be enjoying this more than he should. Still, he followed the orders and opened the heavy double doors. When he walked in, the large room was black for a moment. Then, lights came on above the ceiling. He looked up to see normal light bulbs hanging from the beams, but as L got a closer looks at the illumination devices… he could have sworn he could see a small hint of red inside the center. Was it just his eyes playing tricks on him or was this something that B had planned? The room was still dark in some areas. The only thing he could really see was the platform of the second floor of the warehouse. And there, at the top, was the man behind this ordeal.
*The human who gains the Seimeigami Eyes will also gain 3.6 times their current vision.
*Humans with Seimeigami eyes cannot see the past, present, and future bubbles of themselves, nor can they see the bubbles of those who possess Life Notes as well.
There on the second floor was the man who had abducted Laura. "Long time no see, L." His smirked spread across his face, revealing pearly teeth. L scowled at him from below the floor as he looked at the man above him. It was sickening to see how much these two looked alike. The black messy hair, the faded blue jeans, the white t-shirt… many could see them as twins. But as L got a closer look at him, he noticed a few changes to his past successor. His hair was more combed through, not as wild as L's. His shirt had shorter sleeves, up to his elbows. And he actually wore sneakers. At least he was showing some individuality for a change.
"I wish I could say the same to you, B."
The man above frowned as he raised a brow at L. "Is this how you treat your successors? You can't even call me by my real name?"
"Why should I?" L questioned. "I'm not here to chat, I'm only here for one thing."
"Stop being in such a rush. Laura is perfectly safe. If I would have killed her, you wouldn't have given me the Death Note. Since we are seeing each other face to face for the very first time in such a long while, we can use this opportunity to catch up on so many things. All I ask is for us to have a few minutes to chat with one another. If you can give me that, then we can get on with the exchange. What do you say?"
"Do you really find this amusing?" L demanded an answer.
"Anything can be fun if you know how to approach the situation," B mocked, a smile back on his face.
"I do have some questions for you. For starters, how is it that you are alive again?" L questioned. "Last I checked, you were killed off by Kira."
"Well, it is true that I was dead for quite a while… but tell me… did you honestly think I would be so below you… that I would let someone as childish like Kira kill me? He used the power of paper and a pen to get rid of anyone in his way. He never even felt the sensation of blood on his hands, the taste of death, and the smell of decay. No…" B casually walked back and forth on his floor as he never took his eyes off of L. "I could never be killed by someone like him. Especially with the power he had. Now that was cheating. Oh. I assure you, I did die… but not by his hands. I ended up killing myself…"
"You gave yourself a heart attack?" L gasped at the idea. "B-but how?"
"Well, I couldn't have done it by myself. Let's just say, I had some assistance. Of course, I won't tell you who. But I'm sure you'll meet them soon enough."
"So… he really wasn't killed by Light after all," L thought to himself. "He must have watched the news while he was imprisoned and planned his death." L knew that B wanted nothing more than to surpass him in any way possible. And if he were to be killed by Kira, it would just be a mockery to him. It would be just like B to want to kill himself before Kira can get to him. Especially since he did try to kill himself during his murder spree. "Then explain to me how you are alive now."
"Oh, come on, don't tell me you are so dense… you should know by now how people are being brought back these days. By a certain character named… Tenshi." L gasped at that nickname. "Or… what was it you called her? Lamore Nosaka?" L took a step back, dumbfounded. How the hell did B figure out who Tenshi and Lamore were? Laura wouldn't have told him that information. Did he gather that stuff on his own? How long had he been alive, and how much did he actually know?! "I know everything about that girl as well as Light Yagami, who was Kira. After I was revived, I did a bit of research about everything relating to those two from a reliable source. So I know what I'm up against." L snarled at the smugness B was showing. "Oh, don't worry, L. I'm not gonna kill those two. At least, not with the Notebook. I'll also spare you and Laura with the paper as well. You have my word on that. Unlike Kira, I want to do the job with my own hands."
"Why would Lamore bring you to life? Surely if she knew what you have done-"
"Who are you to judge a person based on what they did in the past?" B raised a brow. "And who's to say she knew what I did? Nowadays, anyone can go online and type false information. All my assistant had to do was get my photo and name placed on a social media where anyone can locate it, say that I had a heart attack and I was a victim of a terrible fire with many scars as proof. That way, Tenshi would not only bring me back, but heal my scars as well. A few days later, I was resurrected. It's funny how anyone will believe anything they post or say these days," B laughed.
"Did your assistant knew all along that Tenshi would come into existence?" L questioned.
B looked at him with a nonchalant expression and shrugged. "To be honest, I'm not sure they thought about it at the time when they were killing me. But I couldn't care less if they did. All I wanted was to die before Kira could get to me. And that is what happened. Not only did I beat Kira to the kill, but I also ended up making you lose one of your mistakes for you to learn from. In the end, death was a win-win for me. It was what I was aiming for when I was in LA."
"You really must be insane if you do not fear death."
"Oh, great detective of the century… when you have lived to see death all around you your whole life, you can't help but want it for yourself."
"What's that supposed to mean?" L questioned.
"Don't tell me you haven't figured it out already," B mocked. He began to walk down the stairs to the floor that L resided. "There is something that Laura and I happen to share; not just past successors under your title. How else do you think I was able to pick out my victims so easily?" He jumped the last step and let his head bow to the ground. With a smirk on his face, he lifted his head and let L see his eyes. Those black eyes were now a ruby color. "These lights I've installed have a special chemical in the bulbs. They allow you to see the true eyes of a Shinigami."
L stared at his former successor as he stood only a few feet away from him. Those red eyes that belonged to a monster… a demon… a half Shinigami? "Of course… You mentioned you had that power when we interrogated you," L mumbled as he thought back to those first few days when B was held captive.
"You didn't believe me, though, I can't say I blame you. But by now, you should know about the Shinigami eyes as well as the power they hold."
"Yes, that I do know of," L admitted.
"Then you also know that Laura has the same eyes as me, correct? It must be embarrassing, to know that the one you held so closely to ended up seeing your real name and your lifespan this whole time. Isn't that right? Lawliet?"
Again, he was taken aback by the murderer's words. He knew his real name?! There was no way any amount of research could tell him that. He must be telling the truth about the eyes he has! Still, he regained his composure and looked back at the man before him. "I do not care about Laura's eyes. But I do care about her life. So… now that we are done with the chat, I want to get this exchange over with."
"My, my… we certainly are impatient, aren't we? But you gave me small talk so I'll give you what you came for." B walked over to the wall and flipped a switch and more of the lights turned on. L saw what was underneath the stairs. There was a glass box that covered almost half the warehouse. L looked and gasped as he saw that Laura was lying on the floor of the box. She was still wearing her undergarments, and her eyes were halfway open and dull like she was barely there. Aside from a collar on her neck attached to a chain that locked her to the floor, she was freed of any restraints. The marks were still there, and though they weren't bandaged, they scabbed over well and didn't seem to look infected. So B probably treated them somewhat.
"Laura!" L called out her name. The woman twitched her fingers and looked out through the glass to see a figure standing there, looking concerned.
"… L…" she breathed.
L was in such a shock, he didn't know what to think! She was in worse condition than he last saw her in. All the more reason to get her out of here quickly. Once he got her away from B, he would be sure to give her medical attention. Hopefully it wouldn't be anything too fatal.
"I must admit, out of all of my victims, she was the most fun to have tortured," B laughed as he made his way towards the glass. "After all, my last victims that I drugged didn't survive. Not to mention they couldn't handle the force I used against them, even when they were dead." L glared at him with pure hatred. B slipped through the glass door and headed towards Laura. He unhooked the chain and held it in one of his hands. He used his other hand to grab a fistful of Laura's hair and pull her to her knees. He then held onto her hair and placed her by his side. "Yet she was able to handle all that pressure. I suppose her Shinigami blood must make it so she doesn't give up easily. Or, perhaps it is also due to the fact that she was trained by you. It's a shame you didn't make her your heir, Lawliet. She probably would have won against Kira at a faster rate than your two successors." B began to pet Laura's head as if she were a dog to him.
L clenched his fingers in his palm as hard as he could. He was surprised that blood hadn't started trickling out of his skin. How dare that son of a bitch touch Laura in such a way! Especially after everything he had put her through in the past and now! L wanted nothing more than to strangle B for what he had done to her. What he was making her out to be: a pet for his own fantasies. "Relax, L, I take good care of the things I'm fond of. And I'm very fond of Laura. Which is why I am allowing this trade to take place. Now then, bring me the Death Note," he commanded.
The former detective had no choice but to comply as he reached behind his back and pulled out the black Notebook that was secured by his clothes. He held it with his thumb and index finger and presented it to B. The man in the glass box smirked at the presences of the Death Note. "That seems like a Death Note… but seeing and believing are two different things." L should have known. B probably wanted to make sure it was the real thing. "You see the slot in the glass, correct?" B gestured towards the small slot where it seemed you could fit a small rectangular object in it. There was even a stand for it to be laid on on the other side. "Slide the Notebook halfway in and I'll see for myself if it's the real thing."
L had no choice but to obey as he advanced towards the glass and open the Death Note, inserting it halfway into the slot where B watched with fascination as the pieces of paper were now on his side. B walked towards the slot while dragging Laura along. "Hmm… Now then… before we can actually trade, I must make sure its powers are real."
"You're going to kill someone," L stated.
"Oh, don't worry, it's no one that you know of," B assured as he took out a small box beneath the slot and opened it. Inside was an old flip phone. Judging from the model and the type, it seemed to be one where it couldn't be traced. B took out a picture and held it up to his eyes. He snickered as he looked at the man in the photo. "Ha, he only has a month left to live anyway. Probably on death row." B set the photo down which gave L time to look at it. It was a mugshot of a tall man with a sly mustache who was blad. An ugly fellow. If it was a mugshot, then this man must be a criminal.
B started to write the name in the Notebook while L began to ask questions to himself. "There is something wrong with this trade. Why would B want the Death Note? Could he really want to use this to eliminate me and the others? But he stated that he has no interest in using this weapon to kill any of us. Then again, can I believe his words? He may have no reason to kill the others, but what about me? And more importantly, what about that phone of his?" L watched as B flipped the phone open and pressed the buttons. "Could he possibly be texting someone? He did mention an accomplice a while ago. Is that who he is texting? Could this assistant be the one who really wants the Death Note? One thing is for sure, he is not working alone." L was certain about that.
A whole minute had passed when B looked back at the picture and his smirk appeared on his face once again. "Good… seems it's the real deal." B placed the picture back on the stand and texted with the phone again. L was confused at first by what he meant about the Notebook being real. How could he have known that that man was dead by looking at the picture? He then remembered what Laura had told him before.
"You can see a person's name and lifespan with a photo as well?" L asked young Laura.
"Uh-huh… but when they are dead, they don't have either," Laura replied.
"If B does have the eyes, and the same properties, he can really tell if a person is alive or dead just by the photograph."
After B flipped the phone back and placed it in his pocket, he looked back at L. "Alright, you brought me the genuine thing. So I'll give you Laura." B unhooked the chain connecting Laura's collar as he still held onto the strap. B held onto the Death Note with his other hand as he kicked open the glass door. He tossed Laura out of the box towards L. In her weakened state, she would have fallen to the floor if L had not caught her. He held onto her as he knelt to the floor and looked in her eyes.
"Laura, are you alright?" he asked her with concern.
Laura's eyes seemed to gain a bit more light in them as she looked at L, but they were just as sad. "I'm sorry…" she breathed.
L placed her head on his shoulder as he stroked the back of her hair. "There is nothing to apologize for. I'm gonna get you out of here," he promised. He used his free hand to hook under Laura's legs and his other hand around her waist, picking her up bridal style. She was lighter than he thought she would be for someone her age. Then again, after the past few days she's been through, he didn't blame her. Before L could start heading for the exit, B called out to him.
"Hold it, Lawliet, we aren't done yet!" L turned around to see B standing there with a sharp kitchen knife in his hand. L should have known. "Did you honestly think I would just hand over Laura to you that easily when you gave me the Death Note?"
"You said you wouldn't kill me," L pointed out.
"With the Death Note. Unlike Kira, I want to do the job myself."
"You want to kill me with your own hands, you mean."
"I wanted to surpass you in any way, and if killing you is what I must do, then I will!" His madman smirk was back on his face as his red eyes shone with a lust for blood. L glared at B, knowing that the only way to get out was to fight. He walked over to the nearest wall and set Laura down against it.
"Stay here," L ordered. He was about to turn and head back to B, but Laura reached out and grabbed his arm. He looked back at her with her eyes wavering with sadness. She shook her head, trying to get him to stop. L looked back at her and patted her head. "Don't worry, I promise I'll get you out of here safely. Just hold on a bit longer." L was able to shake her arms off of him easily due to how weak she was. He then walked back to B who just stared at him. Ready to attack.
"You shouldn't make promises you can't keep L," B remarked.
"Why do you think I made it?" L mocked him.
"Don't blame me if you end up bleeding to death while I take back Laura," B smirked as he lunged forward with the knife in hands towards L. The former detective was able to dodge it with only his sleeve getting cut. L ducked down and kicked B square in the jaw. The murderer backed up, but it didn't faze him too much. He rubbed his chin and looked back at L with a playful smirk.
"Not bad. I had no idea you could actually fight back," B commented.
"That was called Capoeira. Naomi Misora told me to learn about it," L said.
"Ah, yes, your pawn. I had forgotten about her. But she died, didn't she? Killed by Kira. Such a shame. She could arrest me, but when it came to Kira, she couldn't get to him," B laughed.
"I admit, it took a lot to capture Kira and to get rid of his powers. That is why I will do everything I can to stop you from using this power before you can do much damage."
"Is that another one of your promises you plan on keeping?" B mocked. Though, before L could actually answer, B rushed towards him with the knife again. L wasn't quick enough to dodge the damage as B cut his face with the weapon. Blood leaked from L's cheek as he stared at the madman who was enjoying every single moment of this. "You're making this too easy, Lawliet," B laughed.
"You are the one with the upper hand," L pointed out. "You said you wouldn't cheat, and yet you bring a knife to a fist fight."
"There is a difference between cheating and coming here prepared," B stated. "You should have known that I would try something like this, and yet you didn't even take precautions. You really have lost yourself this past year." B rushed up again towards L, ready to put another mark on his face. However, L grabbed his arm with his hand and looked at B in the eyes. A smirk on L's face now.
"I wouldn't say I've completely fallen yet." L used his knee to kick B in the stomach, making him loosen his grip on the knife. Using this opportunity, L used his free hand to pry the knife from B. Once he got that weapon away from B, he held onto it and watched as B held his stomach in place as he looked at L.
"Finally, starting to fight back! I was really doubting you there for a second, L," B laughed as he began to approach him. L pointed the knife right at the madman as the tip was only an inch away from his nose. B was taken aback by the sudden weapon on his face. But his surprise was replaced quickly with a look of amusement as he stared at L, holding the knife towards him with a stern and deadly expression. "My, killing someone up close on your own? And with a weapon, no less? That doesn't really seem like you, L. You really have changed."
L kept his grip on the knife as he didn't take his eyes off of B. "Stay where you are unless you want this to go through your very being," L warned.
"You say that, but can you honestly do it is the real question," B stated.
As much as L wanted nothing more than to actually do it, and he would without hesitation, he couldn't. There were many reasons he couldn't do it. He didn't want to kill because he had never done it up close before. If he did kill B, he would just be giving him what he wanted. Not to mention he would be no better than Kira or B at that moment. He turned back to see Laura as she was leaning against the wall, standing up. Though, as her figure wobbled, she found it hard to stay up straight. L looked at her and realized that there was no real point in killing B. The only reason he came here was to get back Laura and give her medical attention. B should wait until L was sure Laura was well again and located in a safe location. As long as she was away from this monster, then L could find him again and fight him without any worries. "I'll give you one last chance to just walk away now," L warned B as he still held the tip of the knife towards the face. "You already have the Death Note, and you will have plenty of chances to try and kill me again. And I have more important matters to attend to other than you." L lowered the knife, but still held onto it as he walked back towards Laura.
B watched as the great L walked away from him like he wasn't important anymore. "How dare he!?" B gritted his teeth as he stood back up and glared at L with hatred.
Lawliet walked over to Laura as she leaned against the wall standing up. He placed his hands on her shoulders to steady her and look at her. "Don't worry, Laura, you're going to be alright," he promised her. Laura took a few deep breaths as she looked back up at L, her eyes gaining light in them again. But as L looked at them closer, he was somewhat shocked to see that her eyes had changed color. Instead of a coal black, they were now a ruby red, just like B's. Laura noticed that L was staring at her strangely and blinked a few times, not understanding why he was frozen in place. She wanted to ask him what was wrong, but before she could, she was interrupted.
"How dare you!?" B yelled. The two turned their heads to see B with those crazed eyes as his face was twisted in an upset manner for the first time that night. What was even scarier was the fact that this time he was holding a loaded gun pointing at L. "You dare make a fool out of me!?"
Laura's eyes went wide as she saw the action that was about to go down. She turned towards L and rushed over to him. "L, watch out!" Laura screamed as she pushed him out of the way as B pulled the trigger and a bullet flew through the room. L was shoved by Laura as he landed on the ground safely while Laura was knocked onto the ground and slide a few feet away from L. The former detective used his elbows to prop himself up. He knew that B would have used some weapons, but he never thought he would go so far as to actually use a gun! He really did want to do anything to kill off L.
L tried to get himself on his feet again, but a foot kicked him in his stomach and made him lay back down. Lawliet looked back up to see B staring at him with those psychotic eyes of his, a snarl on his face as the gun was pointing right in L's face. "You will pay attention to me! Dammit! Do you have any idea how much it hurt, Lawliet? I knew I could never be at your level, I was always the second best with A at the top. Do you remember him, L? Do you!? Your first attempt at a successor who ended up committing suicide because of the pressure you put on him! That was all we were to you: lab rats, huh? I knew I could never live up to you or A, so I had to do something different. I knew that I had to surpass you. Not as your equal, but as your opposite." The smirk appeared on his face once again.
"It took me a while to plan it all out, and I was worried that you wouldn't notice me. After all, you paid more attention to A than you ever did to me or anyone else."
"You know very well that isn't true!" L protested. That only gave him another kick to the stomach from B.
"You really shouldn't interrupt someone who is trying to get their point across," B pointed out. "I made my move in L.A. where I started killing. I had hoped to meet you in person when you took on my case, but you ended up sending a proxy instead! That was an insult to me and my art I worked so hard to master just for you. So, when I saw young Laura, or Lucillia Goldfield, I knew she was something special." B turned to see Laura who was on the ground far from them. "I took her and made her my first hostage. I knew she had to have been related to you in some way, so I had to get that information one way or another. But she proved to be very strong, so I gave up on her and left her to die. Then I was captured by your helper and sent to that prison that doubled as an insane asylum. I was locked away, with nothing to do but think about how close I had come to beating you, yet so far. You locked me away and forgot about me! But all that changed when you came to visit me, and I saw your face for the very first time as well as your name and lifespan. I was so ecstatic that you graced yourself with your presence before me. Then I told you about the girl that I was holding captive, and the look on your face was priceless." B crackled his laughter in the warehouse.
L wanted nothing more than to wipe that stupid smirk of B's off of his face. And he attempted to do so. He lunged forward to grab B's knees and attempt to throw him to the ground. For a moment, B lost his balance and fell while L pinned him to the ground, hands around B's arms, making sure he did not leave. B stared up as L bore a look of pure hatred. "How dare you!" L used his rage to speak for him. "It is one thing to come after me on your own, but killing innocent bystanders and tormenting Laura are things that I will never allow! All of her life, Laura has suffered. My whole life, I have also suffered. The last thing she needs, I need, and the world needs, is a monster such as yourself. And if I have to kill you just to make sure you don't even attempt your actions, I will have no choice but to execute that idea!"
"Really?" B smirked amused. "Can you honestly do what you say? If you ask me, you are all talk and no show."
"You are pure vermin, Backup," L spat in B's face.
The smirk on B's face was once again lost as he gritted his teeth. B used what little room his legs had to kick L in the groin area, causing L to loosen his grip. B took the opportunity and shoved L off of him, causing him to fall back down to the ground. Before L could stand up, B placed his foot on L's chest to make sure he stayed put. L looked up as B pointed the gun right in L's face, between his eyes. Ruby eyes narrowed at the former detective with a wicked snarl on his face, showing his teeth, especially his canines that were much sharper than the average human. "Don't. You. DARE. Call me by that name!" He gripped the gun tighter as he gritted his teeth harder. "I am no longer your Backup, I do not belong to you nor do I have any more ties to Wammy's House. I am my own being, free to do what I please."
"Killing me will not undo the damage you have done upon yourself," L pointed out as he gasped for air. The foot on his chest dug deeper as it hit a lung.
"No, it won't. But all I wanted was to surpass you. And now, I finally will. Once I kill you here and now, everything that I have done in the past will have been worth it. Know this, Lawliet. I am the monster that roams this world; I am a half-Shinigami. And so is Laura. She was brought into this fight the moment I captured her in L.A. I've always had my eyes on her ever since. And now, once you are gone, no one will stop me from taking her again." B held onto the trigger tightly as he smirked, seeing L stare up at his death. "Don't worry, your second death will be quick and painless," B laughed.
For a moment, all L could do was stare as the gun was pointing in his face and B was ready to pull the trigger. This was it, he was actually going to die here by the hands of one of his former successors. What was even worse, B had plans for Laura after L would be killed. He had failed to actually protect Laura. Even if he died, he could only hope that Light, Lamore, and the others would figure out this mess that was happening and rescue Laura and somehow defeat B. "So… this is where it all ends, huh?" L questioned himself as he was ready to accept his death. B's smirk grew from ear to ear as he had tightened on the trigger and was ready to fire. There was the sound of a shot from a gun, a bullet flying through the air, and the bullet hitting the flesh. For a long moment, L wondered if he was already dead. But if so, why wasn't he feeling any pain? He opened his eyes and looked to see the gun fell from B's hand with blood surrounding it. L saw that B was holding his hand that was covered in blood. The two turned back to see someone else at the entrance holding a pistol aimed at B.
"Don't move!" Matsu ordered B as he held the pistol. "I'll aim for your head next."
B glared at the man and turned back to L. "I thought we agreed that you would bring no one else!"
"Funny, you should have known that I would have lied," L pointed out with a small, victorious smile on his lips.
B released his footing on L and the former detective was able to get himself back up on his feet. "You may as well surrender now while you have the chance, B," L offered. B glared at L one last time as he turned to face the one holding the weapon now. He was at a disadvantage at this point. B had to think of something quickly in order to escape. As long as he could get out of here with the Death Note, then everything will be alright. The plan would still be in place and he still had a chance to still beat L and gain what he wanted. His eyes scanned the room, trying to find some way for him to escape, something he could use. His eyes soon landed on the forgotten character on the floor. His smirked reappeared on his face. That will do.
"Maybe instead of focusing on me, you should draw your attention to her." B nodded his head towards the far end of the wall. Both Matsu and L turned to see Laura still on the floor. L gasped as he realized that Laura was still here, and she was probably in pain.
Matsu saw Laura on the ground and rushed over to her. "Laura!" he called out.
That was B's que. The murderer ran from the scene as he headed back up the stairs to the second level of the warehouse. L saw B making a run for it and followed him. Though B was an entire yard away from L, the former detective did all he could to catch up to him. L was at the bottom of the steps as he saw B opening a window to the back of the warehouse. B hopped up on the ledge and sat on it as he stared down at L. "Such a pity we have to cut this short, just when it was getting good. I almost had you that time, but I was beaten. Don't worry, though. You'll see me again, L. And next time, I will kill you. But," B pulled out the black Notebook from his back and showed it to L, "I might as well thank you for the Death Note. So I might as well leave, knowing I have what I wanted. So, I'll see you later, Lawliet." B then threw himself out of the window as L watched him vanish. Chances are, there was probably some sort of cushion at the bottom for B to land on so he would be unharmed. He really had planned for everything. But L knew that even though he was gone, this would not be the last he would see of that monster. He would come back again, and with a Death Note, there's no telling what he will do.
"Ryuzaki!" Matsu called out. L turned around to see the man kneeling beside Laura as he stared at L in horror. L stepped back from the staircase and rushed over to the two. B was right about one thing, he should be making sure Laura was safe. For now, he would deal with Laura and worry about B later.
"What's wrong?" L asked.
"She's been hurt!" Matsu exclaimed.
L looked at Laura as she held the side of her stomach. L looked and saw red liquid oozing out of her hand. L's eyes widened as he scooted over closer to Laura and gently pulled her hand away. At first, she protested with a few whines, but L tried to calm her down. "Laura, show me what happened," L demanded as he pulled her hand away. He gasped as he saw that there was a punctured wound in Laura's side. Blood gushed out of it at an alarming rate. L was too stunned to even comprehend what was going on. Then he suddenly realized: "She must have gotten shot when she pushed me away when B attempted to shoot me the first time." He should have realized she would have taken some damage to that gunshot, and instead of attending to her, he was busy taking down B… who ended up getting away anyways.
"This isn't good," Matsu noted. "She's losing a lot of blood fast."
L noticed how much blood she was losing, and at this rate, it would result in death. He had to think quickly. L slipped off his shirt and wrapped it around Laura's wound. "Matsu, give me your belt," L ordered. Matsu was confused, but did as he was told if it was to help Laura. Giving it to L, the former detective wrapped the belt around the shirt and tightened it so it stayed in place. "It won't necessarily stop the bleeding, but it should at least slow it down until I get her some help." L lifted Laura's head and looked at her in her eyes. Despite them still being a crimson red, he tried to comfort her. "Laura, look at me. You're going to be alright, but you have to stay with me."
Laura kept breathing and panting as she held onto her side tightly. She nodded in a weird manner, but that was enough for L to understand. L turned back to face Matsu. "Where is the nearest hospital?" he asked.
"Uh…" Matsu tried to remember as quickly as possible. "I believe that the Tokyo Hospital should be near here. Five blocks to the east and then another five blocks north. The engine is still running, we could-"
"There's no time," L stated as he carefully picked up Laura bridal style once more in his bare chest. Matsu looked at him as the two stood up again. "I'll take Laura to the hospital, I want you to contact everyone and inform them about Laura's condition and only her condition. Tell them to meet us at the Tokyo Hospital. I'll call you all once I get there. And tell Lamore to bring a few pages of the Life Note, just in case."
"R-right," Matsu nodded. "But what about-" He didn't have time to finish his question as L ran from Matsu. "L! Wait!" Matsu called out. But he didn't. L rushed out of that warehouse as he tightly held onto Laura. He ran down the streets of Tokyo as the late night rain poured onto his and her being. He had to hurry. If he didn't give Laura the medical attention she needed now, she would die. And he wasn't about to let that happen. He kept running, never looking back. Despite the coldness of the rain, he had to endure it.
Laura looked up at him weakly. The loss of blood had affected her greatly, but she was still hanging on. She watched as L carried her through the night, heading towards the hospital. Determined to get her well again. She lend into his chest and realized that it was bare. "I can feel his heart beating… his skin is so warm despite the temperature and the weather out here," Laura thought as she realized that it was raining at night. A small smile crossed her lips as she looked up at her mentor. "This is just like the time you saved me in LA all those years ago." She envisioned herself in L's arms again as she was younger while he ran down the streets of LA in the freezing rain, getting her to the nearest hospital. "Some things never change. You come back for me despite the dangers. Thank you… L Lawliet." She closed her eyes as she laid her head against the chest of the one she deeply loved. At least if she died, she would die in his arms.
To Be Continued…
Cosmok13: Welp, with that, we end on another cliffhanger.
PirateTetra (Editor): Dude, you are a little devil, Cosmo.
Cosmok13: Thank you all so much for reading this new chapter and supporting my story still. Also, a few quick notes for all of you who are wondering: L and Light still do not have their names and lifespans above their heads when someone with the Shinigami eyes looks at them. The reason that B was able to know of L's name was because he saw him in person all those years ago, hence what he said in this chapter. And for any of you who are wondering about the relationship between L, Laura, and the Death Note, these questions will be answered in the next chapter. Anyways, hope you all liked this chapter and will stay tuned for Episode 25 of Life Note to see what fate awaits Laura. See you until then!