Ghost!L x Female! Investigator! Deaf! Psychic! Reader x Near
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Crazy, delusional, exceptional, alluring, fantastic. These are words that the public uses to describe rising star (Y/N) (L/N). Many detectives and citizens believe she is a fraud, or just insightful. Some guess that authorities gave her a position as a glamorous mascot. An equally stunning rival to any new Kira. This is a little true –minus the hoax part.
She isn't in this career for fame.
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From a young age (Y/N) obtained psychic abilities. She can see and hear the dead. Truly extraordinary since she is deaf and can't even hear her own voice. Charmed by solving mysteries (Y/N) later on became a detective. The woman keeps her ethereal power a secret. Passionately, (Y/N) focuses gaining justice for the deceased. Though, her talent couldn't remain unnoticed by several colleagues.
Now having many years of experience, the recently appointed Chief of Police makes (Y/N) the new face of the task force.
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Her ranking falls just below the esoteric Near. Hundreds request interviews. How does her power work? Are there any limitations? Why does she work alone? All requests are denied. How would (Y/N) continue brining justice if everybody knows about her power? This frustrates greedy gossipers; they are certain she is a scam. (Y/N) doesn't care about what others think of her. None of it matters.
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"I have a brilliant mentor." Is what (Y/N) signs when cornered by nosy interviewers. This is not a lie. The legendary L is guiding her from the afterlife. He provides hints but never solves anything for her.
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Years ago L approached while she was working on a case. Instantly L became attached. Is it pure luck that brought them together? Or, did L stay because he's a restless soul longing to solve complex cases again? Is this why he's haunting the psychic? Either way, (Y/N) is grateful L sticks around.
'I never had many companions and ironically my only one is a ghost.'
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In a hotel room (Y/N) paces impatiently.
L asks, "What's wrong?" He can already guess but the detective wants to comfort her.
"Near called for me personally. He wants me to join his team."
"Because the revival of heart attack cases?"
"Exactly. A new Kira with a Death Note I'm certain. But," (Y/N) sighed. "I'm so nervous. I'm not used to working with anyone –except you that is."
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"Near is a brilliant detective. Trust him. Without Mello he is incomplete. You'll be a good balance for his cautiousness."
Snorting, (Y/N) smiled. "Are you serious? He's ten times smarter than me." Grabbing a few candies she pops them into her mouth. "A literal genius –just like you!"
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L rubbed his neck bashfully. "Who do you think the new Kira is?"
"I don't know." The woman shuffles to the kitchen to make dinner. "If it isn't a move to throw the police off track, then perhaps a follower of Light Yagami's Kira?"
"Yes. I was thinking the same thing. The motives are too similar."
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"Hmm…Near is taller but his hobbies haven't changed over the past two years." L observes as the elevator door opens.
"Shh! I need to concentrate!" (Y/N) sends her friend a quick glare. Studious detective or not, ghosts always manage to distract her. Breaking the woman's focus much like a loud train horn above the hush of a quiet road.
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Concealed by a stack of dice, cards, and toys is Near. Sitting at the center of the labyrinth his eyes are glued to a mechanical cast puzzle. He hardly notices her existence.
"Um, Near? (Y/N) is-"
"Yes Matsuda. Commander Rester has already informed me of miss (L/N)'s arrival."
Pale ivory eyes latch onto vibrant (e/c) hues.
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Twirling a white lock of hair, Near narrows his eyes in interest. "Welcome to the SPK. I'm quite fascinated to learn about your ability. It appears to be very accurate. Would you mind if I ask a few questions?"
"Not at all!"
"Very well. Please answer as honestly as you can."
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The SPK members stare at the psychic incredulously. (Y/N) had every detail. She described L and his tactics, Light Yagami and his partner Misa Amane, what Ryuk looked like and the power of Shinigami eyes; she even had knowledge about Watari. It's as if (Y/N) had witnessed everything from the beginning. Near remains expressionless but inwardly impressed.
No ordinary psychic could know all that.
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"You don't seem shocked." (Y/N) chuckles in amusement.
"Shinigami exist. Creatures' humans believed to be only myths. It wouldn't be impossible to assume ghosts can too."
The woman shrugged, agreeing. "So, what should I do first?"
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For weeks (Y/N) follows Near's instructions –adding helpful input from time to time. He admires how she offers to put herself at risk just to further the investigation. (Y/N) suggests bold tactics to draw Kira out from hiding. The woman's kindness extends beyond that. He wonders if these small actions make his heart flutter.
Spending cash to buy him games –(Y/N) doesn't have much money.
Helping him reach objects placed on a tall shelf.
Playing games together so Near can focus on the case even though she loses most of the time.
Being naturally buoyant. Everyone in SPK is always so morbid (besides Matsuda). Though (Y/N) is hardworking when need be.
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Like his predecessor Near is unclear on how to show affection. For (Y/N) he wants to try. How could he get his message across? 'Showing love is difficult when your rival is a ghost.' A twinge of jealousy flourishes because (Y/N) is enamored by L.
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For days SPK members travel to places where heart attack victims died, just for a slim chance to get information. They find nothing. Discouraged, (Y/N) paces restlessly.
"Are you alright?" Near asks.
Sighing, she gifts him a dismal smile. "I uh, need some air."
Blinking, he pointed up. "There's a roof garden on the top floor." Near stares at (Y/N)'s retreating figure, worried. 'I wish I knew how to comfort her.'
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In a simple greenhouse the woman slumps dejectedly on a chair. Rubbing her eyes she refuses to cry. (Y/N) taps her chin, drawing nothing but blanks.
"What's wrong (Y/N)?" L's soothing voice floats past her ear.
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The man looks at her curiously and patiently waits for an answer.
"I feel so useless and dumb, L. I'm around geniuses and I can't contribute anything."
"That's not true."
(Y/N) laughed bitterly. "I'm only good at tracking and fieldwork. Without your guidance I'm nothing. Worthless."
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Standing, (Y/N) was about to walk back inside. A cold, icy draft brushes her skin. L's faint outline hugs her smaller frame, his chin resting on her shoulder. "You're not worthless. You've solved many cases before I came along. I see that you're a wonderful detective. I'm glad to be haunting you, (Y/N)."
A deep blush appears on the woman's face. "So am I."
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Breaking away (Y/N) views the garden. 'I think I'm in love with L.' A subtle frown chips her features. 'It's impossible for him to return my feelings, being a ghost.'
Turning, she sees Near walking up with two plates of (favorite pastry).
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The two sit at a table outside. Sunlight brings uplifting warmth. Near's voice wavers with shyness. "You looked upset so I-"
"Thank you Near. I appreciate it."
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L hovers close, staring hungrily at the sweets. That's one thing he misses. Also, he can't ignore a particular feeling spreading in his chest. Love? It is the first time such emotions struck him. Anguish arrives next.
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'I'm a ghost. She still has a whole life to experience.' He understands that (Y/N) loves him. 'If I was still alive things would be different between us.' But this is reality. So, L resolves to get Near and (Y/N) together.
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"Even with L's guidance we still can't find any clues about Kira."
Hesitantly Near reaches for (h/c) locks and bashfully yet fascinatedly twirls (Y/N)'s hair. "It's alright. Clues eventually will be revealed."
Blushing, she gently moves Near's hand away.
He freezes, alarmed. 'Is that not a comforting gesture exchanged between others?'
Plate empty, (Y/N) stands up. "You're right. Let's go back. We might find something."
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Shuffling through papers, (Y/N) studies data. "The heart attacks align to a schedule of an average student. They all die at the same time in a different city, ten at a time. I know the Death Note allows time and location manipulation but this doesn't add up. What's Kira trying to do?"
"That's right! It doesn't match!" Matsuda agrees.
"Perhaps Kira is distracting us, keeping us guessing." Near says. "Good observation, (Y/N)."
"Thank you."
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Just like Near predicted, more clues trickled in. Every day petty criminals die. Every week crowds of the most evil and heartless die violently all at one time. L and Near suggest there are two Kira, maybe even working together. Other SPK members disagree.
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"Miss (L/N). A letter is here for you. It's safe, I assure you." Rester hands it to her. Thanking him she opens the package. A pink page is decorated with sparkles and girly decorations.
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Perplexed, (Y/N) read it. "Akira Kagami wants me to be a guest at her next live concert."
"The famous pop singer?" Stephen asks. "She's a devoted Kira supporter."
"Apparently she really likes my detective work. The fan letter seems like a trap."
"Miss Kagami could have some information about Kira. Are you willing to go?"
(Y/N) nods. "Of course! Anything to capture Kira."
Near smiled. "Good. I have a plan."
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Just before she leaves, (Y/N) feels a tug on her arm.
"Please," a pink blush blooms on Near's face. "Be careful. If you need anything-"
"I'll press the button on my earrings." (Y/N) smiled sweetly.
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A soft weight brushes her lips. Heart beating furiously, (Y/N) hardly notices Near's grip stiffen on her sleeve. It's as if he's reluctant to let go. Pale eyes lock onto (Y/N)'s flushed face. "I don't care what happens as long as you return safely. I…" Near's frame quivers dreadfully. "If Kira kills you I don't know what I'd do."
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On a train, (Y/N) chose an isolated seat hidden in shadows. Nobody can eavesdrop this way. Passenger clamor and clinking of wheels gliding on tracks also provides excellent cover. Quiet, the woman plans her approach.
"Near is very affectionate towards you."
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"He's taken extra precautions to protect you –like bulletproof armor. I overheard he even offered to travel with you today." L adds.
"I thought that he's just trying to emulate your strategies. The others made him stay." (Y/N) responds. "We don't know if this Kira has Shinigami eyes."
"Why not give him a chance?"
"The only person I love is you, L."
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"I'm a ghost, (Y/N). I can never bring you warmth. You can't really interact with me in public. All I can do is support you in detective work."
Tears shimmer in (Y/N)'s eyes. Her signing becomes frantic and rigid, despondent. "The memories we make together are enough for me."
"You and I both know this isn't true. I want you to be happy."
Sadly she replies, "I understand."
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The train stops. (Y/N) blends into the crowd perfectly. Ascending a staircase she walks to a wide open plaza. A giant stage is being set up with sound equipment and lights. Two staff members see the pink letter and guide (Y/N) to a cramped trailer.
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Strong floral and candy perfume clouded the air. Rows of colorful outfits and wigs clutter the space. A young woman a couple years younger than (Y/N) sits and paints her flawless face. Kagami smiled. "You're here! Hello!"
(Y/N) is surprised the girl knows sign language.
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The celebrity shakes (Y/N)'s hand. Winking, she introduces herself. "I'm Akira Kagami! The most wonderful singer in Japan! I'm so glad you accepted my invitation. As a detective you must be really busy."
"Yes, a little. But how can I say no to such a kind person?"
Akira laughed. "You have good tastes."
"May I ask why I've been invited? The letter was vague."
"Sure! Follow me. I'll give you a tour and explain on the way."
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The tour is dull. However, Akira says something that sparks (Y/N)'s interest. "I want you to open my show. You see, I want a perfect world. You fight for justice, right?"
"I do my best to."
"Growing up you've been one of my idols! I even learned sign language because you inspired me."
"Really? I'm flattered!"
Kagami smiled. "It's my dream that smart, hardworking, and selflessly kind, talented people build a paradise in this world. Don't you agree?"
"I suppose so."
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The singer spins around and clasps (Y/N)'s hands in her own. Akira's eyes glint mischievously. "Can I ask you a question?"
(Y/N) nods and smiles disarmingly. The detective adorns an excited mask.
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"I'm wondering, do you support Kira?"
Acting shocked (Y/N) gasps.
"It's okay! You can tell me! It must be hard because you're working against Kira, right?"
"Yes. I think Kira is the only true justice humanity has."
Kagami grabs (Y/N)'s shoulders. "So do I! This is wonderful!"
A surreal figure floats into view.
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Startled, (Y/N) realizes it's a Shinigami. She barely manages to keep her composure.
"What's wrong (Y/N)?!" L's question gains no answer.
"After all, Kira and the police are trying to obtain the same goal. To protect innocents and make a peaceful world. Can I share a secret with you?"
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"Of course!" (Y/N) hugged Akira, hoping the pop singer didn't catch her hesitation. "Kira supporters must stick together and protect each other."
"I'm Kira."
Though expected, the gravity of the revelation makes (Y/N) shiver.
"I'm continuing Kira's ideals. I won't let their sacrifices go to waste."
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Fear flickers in (e/c) eyes. Nervously she fiddles with her earrings. The jewelry is recording every word. Akira must know a detective would have such devices, right? Or did Kagami already outthink this maneuver?
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"Why tell me?"
"I said that you're one of my idols, didn't I?" Magenta curtains move to reveal the clearing. Hundreds of people outside form an audience. Kagami's smile is eerie and unnervingly sweet. The pop singer points to the gathering.
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Half of them shout a list of the crimes they've committed before slicing open their own throats. Knives loudly clatter onto ground. Ribbons of blood collect into a large pool beneath people's feet. A wave of red crashes into the stage platform. Kagami admires the scene a moment before turning to (Y/N). "It isn't wrong to slaughter filthy, rotten, atrocious people." Akira signs. "Kira handles the scum and the police arrest petty criminals. It's perfect."
Kagami asks, "(Y/N) will you join me?"
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The offer astonishes the detective. "A-And if I don't?"
Akira looks genuinely hurt, as if (Y/N) rejected a love confession. "Please consider it."
"(Y/N), run away!" It's the first time she's ever heard L sound so terrified.
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Briefly (Y/N) stares at the crowd. Knives gleam in their grasps. Their faces young and old look hollow, desolate, and blank. 'Will I finally be with him if I surrender?'
"(Y/N) I know what you're thinking." L's voice shatters her blurry daze. "You still have so much to live for. To look forward to."
Three paths lay before her. Frustrated, she sways between the options.
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"Either way I won't kill you." Akira says. "I'll have you join me. I need strong, goodhearted allies."
Taking a deep breath doubts dissolve and everything becomes clear. Leaping from the stage, (Y/N) sprints away.
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Blades swoop past. A few slice through her clothes and leave scars. Sirens blare, echoing in the distance. The attackers fall, clutching their chest and thrashing in agony. Hiding in a thin pathway (Y/N) sees Akira escape. The dwindling crowd shelters Kagami as she disappears from sight.
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A bulletproof vehicle arrives at SPK headquarters. Halle and (Y/N) step out, the psychic limping. Near jumps into her arms. He doesn't care that blood is ruining his clothes.
"I made sure we weren't followed. (Y/N) also gave me the earrings. Let me heal her injuries."
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The man refuses to let go. "I'm so happy! You're alive! You're alive!"
"Yes. I'm fine." (Y/N) signs. "I have to get my injuries-"
"Promise me that…that you won't disappear."
Smiling, (Y/N) brushes Near's curly white hair. For the first time in a while the woman speaks aloud. "I promise Near. I'll never leave your side." Her soft voice sends the man's heart aflutter. L watches on, content for them both.
Blinking away tears Near grins brightly. "Let's catch Kira!"
