THE ONE AND UNIQUE GOD

[sugawara89]

Before Sugawara took action, television networks began covering the results of a recent court hearing. According to the news, one defendant was executed in court immediately after the verdict was announced. The second received a prison sentence and was sent to a prison facility. Some networks and newspapers provided photographs and names, allowing the information to be verified, and...it was all true?

However, the problem was the public's mixed reaction to Kira's willingness to compromise. Some interpreted his decision as the result of a large bribe from the government, while others began talking about a "Kira double," but the latter theory was still on par with the existence of aliens. After all, the disappearance of a famous figure from the media consistently provoked reactions along the lines of "he was killed/replaced/created by reptilians," so fans of this theory had already been ridiculed. On the other hand, Kira's fans also faced criticism. Some for ceasing to believe in him, others for starting to do so. Not that society was ready for anything. As before, it was a discontented lump, alternately losing and gaining momentum. But the phrase favored by liberals during every change of power—"the closer the empire's collapse, the crazier its laws"—would clearly soon be back in vogue.

Hm.

While Sugawara was skilled at manipulating the masses, he, like any politician, had no intention of doing so himself. He was already taking a huge risk, not so much by assembling a "team" against Kira, but by doing so online. One more small act of timidity and Kira-2, Kira-3, or, oh, no, Kira-1, would be knocking on his door.

Sugawara turned around as if the thought had any direct meaning.

He took a deep breath before opening the "Savior Kira" website. There, among the many discussions, was a new post by a user named Pixel:

"You know what this kind of behavior is called? It's the 'not me, not you' tactic. When someone agrees to do something, but, fearing public reaction, makes the decision 50/50. So one defendant is alive. To please those who want to see change. And one defendant is dead. To please those who like Kira's policies. BUT!!! This isn't like Kira. Have you ever seen Kira justify himself? Do you remember Kira agreeing to anything against his will?"

"I'll never believe Kira was forced," Sugawara wrote anonymously.

Pixel:

In my previous posts, I explain in detail who could benefit from this.

And Kira just took the money? Seriously? Sugawara paused. He occasionally glanced at the man's posts, but in a world where police are allowed to shoot to kill at the sight of masked citizens, expressing one's opinion on the events was problematic. So Pixel's comments were more like emotional news reports without any conclusion. What segment of the population was Sugawara planning to incite? He finished the message and sent it with his eyes closed. Could God do that?

Ugh. Ugh. Ugh. It was as if he'd patted a fly with his finger. But when Sugawara opened his eyes, Pixel's answer surprised him:

Never.

It's neutral enough, but... If they spread the rumors they want through Kira's fans, not his enemies, that would be wonderful.

Sugawara:

Then I don't understand.

Pixel:

Something definitely happened to Kira.

Sugawara:

Well, the criminal murders continue. I mean, the heart attacks are still there. So Kira's alive.

Pixel:

If this is still "our Kira."

Sugawara:

?

Pixel:

I don't believe what they said about his way of killing. I think it's some kind of hereditary power.

Sugawara:

"Hereditary"?

Pixel:

Ancient magic.

Oh.

Pixel:

Passed down from generation to generation. And what Kira's enemies are talking about is just a distraction.

Sugawara:

And?

Pixel:

"And" what?

Sugawara:

Are you saying Kira is now teaching his children to kill?

Pixel:

Why not?

"Why not"?! That's just nonsense.

Sugawara:

Kira wouldn't let his children make such mistakes.

Sugawara hated conspiracy theories.

Pixel:

You're right. If Kira isn't talking, then he's not here.

Sugawara:

So, Kira...?

Pixel:

Maybe. If so, then his son or daughter continued his work. Unsuccessfully. Because they weren't ready, I guess.

Sugawara:

Or because they killed him?

Pixel was silent for a long moment.

Pixel:

The current Kira killed...the previous Kira?

Sugawara had already started writing a message, but Pixel replied, "I'll think about it." When Sugawara hit "send," an error appeared. That's how he realized the post had been deleted. But it seemed like it would have an effect. Maybe...

[bigwiggins]

MopMaid2: Wildly of-topic: pro-Kira troll account wierdly interesting today ★Scintillation★: Not surprised. There is a lot to discuss MopMaid2: I said *wildly off-topic* MopMaid2: They're startnig to notice Kira isn't home..... and they're blaming Kira-2 for it. BUT MopMaid2: They say that's Kira's kid. He'd haev mentioned a kid, right MopMaid3: maybe not, maybe the kid is too eeeevil TorchOfColumbia: Isn't Kira 22?? Spiderkiller: Probably not common knowledge. But he's not old enough to have a child in a position of governance, for sure. Why would they go that route? MopMaid2: Because "Bloodline mgaic." Not watching NHN rots your brain kids!! MopMaid3: so newest kira apologia is "kira: teenage babydaddy of '70s antichrist" MopMaid2: GET MM1 ON THAT NOW Spiderkiller: The important thing is that Kira-2 is losing support ★Scintillation★: "Bloodline magic..." What if they find out he has a sister. KnightOfSwords: I don't think they'll learn that if we don't tell them Spiderkiller: More more importantly, Kira-2 is coming under accusation for a crime they didn't commit ★Scintillation★: And that's... good Spiderkiller: Near thinks so ★Scintillation★: ... ★Scintillation★: no comment TorchOfColumbia: Near's pretty well proven himself by this point. (The electors are remaining anonymous BTW!!) [★Scintillation★ has left the room.] > TorchOfColumbia: ...Tactless. I'm sorry, everyone > > Spiderkiller: Montag's cultural commentary on the Internet weirdness would have been priceless KnightOfSwords: ...yeah

[sugawara89]

Sugawara rubbed his face wearily. He hadn't planned on following the discussions, given how long the lull had been. Sharing information required evidence and reasoning. What could he say now? That he'd accidentally started the myth about Kira's child? "Good morning. If you've seen the movie The Omen, then you know what's going on online"?

He refreshed the site for an hour, but nothing happened. However, when Sugawara decided to check the discussions a couple of hours later, he was greeted by dozens of videos. He had to scroll for at least a minute to get to the text. It turned out it all started with the comments:

Pixel: If new Kira is a child, how can we find him?

Anonymous★: The criminals' time of death. But do you really think it's a child? I mean, you're talking about a CHILD who goes to kindergarten or school or… Pixel: Do you think I'm an idiot? Anonymous♡: You're an idiot. Pixel: That's debatable. I'm the most popular Kira theorist. Anonymous♡: LOL. Anonymous★: So, what about the kid? It could be a student, for example. Anonymous♡: Or a teacher. Students and teachers have the same schedule. Anonymous▽: So how old is the kid-Kira? Anonymous♡: What time is the kindergarten open until? Pixel: OH MY GOD. Anonymous♡: Why aren't we considering kindergarten teachers? Pixel: ARE YOU TROLLING ME?

__

Anonymous♡: Okay. Let's start with how old Kira is. Anonymous★: That's the wrong category. And the wrong question. Anonymous♡: What? Pixel: He's right. Kira is a god, he has no age. Anonymous▽: But you're talking about him having parents, and they're some kind of magical clan. Anonymous♡: And he also has children. Anonymous▽: Okay, so how old could he be? Anonymous: 30? Anonymous♡: 25? Pixel: 48? Anonymous♡: 48 years old? Pixel: He might look young. Anonymous♡: Fuck you.

___

Pixel: Did Kira transfer his powers to someone he knows/relatives? Anonymous□: If so, then definitely to a woman. Anonymous★: Why? Anonymous□: Women are stupid. I wouldn't be surprised if a woman screwed everything up for us. Anonymous@: Maybe his mother? Anonymous★: How old are his parents? Pixel: No, it's hardly his mother. Anonymous★: Why? Pixel: She transferred the power to him herself before. Anonymous★: Okay. Realistic. Pixel: So it's definitely his daughter or sister. If we're talking about blood magic. Anonymous◎: What if you can transfer it to someone you know? Anonymous★: You're right. "All the people I transferred the power to are now dead," or something like that. Kira wouldn't kill his own family. Anonymous♡: What if they're criminals? Anonymous□: Kira comes from a family of criminals? Lol. Anonymous□: Mafia? Pixel: 👎👎👎👎

___

Anonymous◎: let's drop the blood topic. The idea that all the Kiras are related is nonsense. Otherwise, L would have told us about it a long time ago. Anonymous □: So, Kira can transfer her power to anyone. Pixel: Through some kind of ritual? Anonymous □: Probably. Pixel: Through blood? Anonymous◎: Dude. Anonymous♡: If not through blood, then I'm ready to offer myself to Kira's doppelganger. Anonymous: Who needs you lol Anonymous♡: I'm serious. Anonymous: Can I become Kira? Anonymous✿: Can I become Kira??? Anonymous♡: I'll write him a letter. Anonymous▽:PHHHY where are you going to write him? Anonymous♡: Well, post my portfolio here. Like the new Kira.

Pixel: Better to do it via video.

Anonymous♡: A video profile? Pixel: Yeah.

Sugawara took a deep breath. Okay, this needs to be told to Near. He wrote after a while, @near-n:

Good afternoon. I can hardly explain what's happening online; it's better for you to see it for yourself.

He included a link to the website, but it didn't seem to be very effective, as the "post a video questionnaire to become Kira" trend has migrated to other social networks and was noticeable almost everywhere.

[near-n]

It's become apparent Lady Phantasme couldn't have chosen a less convenient time to die. Between sentences, Near was pounding a fresh egg of Silly Putty flat against a copy of the Observer, repeatedly, until such time as it turned perfectly gray. Desperate times called for desperate remedies. Or rather, Stone couldn't have chosen a less convenient time to act against my instructions. It seems that until you've crossed some invisible threshold and become "a somebody", everyone you direct is inclined to be a maverick.

I wonder how L managed to deal with that, in the early days.

Never mind. I can guess the answer: L out-mavericked them. But I can't say that's much use to me in dealings with Koki Tanakabara's fan club.

We'll keep an eye on the pattern. No change is the only purely good news available. A change must be viewed in light of the internal situation. Change coupled with news will at the least describe the nature of the beast. Change, coupled with no news

--He asked me to supply protection for him. That means he has none of his own.

I'm probably as powerless here as I was when Tanakabara consulted me. My preparations (if they're even necessary -- the unknowns are springing up like weeds--) are the only definite line of defense I have. But there is, at least, a further line of observation - and a higher vantage point always offers a better tactical map.

As a precaution against change and other variables, I request that you link your phone to my internal network. Should there be a more attentive replacement selected from the pool already close to Kira, and should they target you, I will be able to monitor and respond to the situation in real time.

[koki-tanakabara]

NHN's Afternoon Chat

I mean, if it's all a crazed rumor, Kira's not going to put up with it for long. If Kira's throne has actually been usurped, the usurper isn't going to be looking through auditions on the Internet for a replacement. Lady Phantasme is no longer a threat to Kira's well-wishers--

--Kira's-- I'm sorry, are we forgetting that Lady Phantasme--

--it's Kira's well-wishers we're talking about right now, and the point here is that these "video questionnaire" idiots are still doing their level best to get themselves killed.

NHK Afternoon Bulletin

...strange activity, concentrated in PMs, on the Savior Kira forum may originally be the work of a hacker, but the ideas planted (including some bizarre theories about Kira's secret child) seem to have blossomed into a genuine mass hysteria. We urge all devout, honest citizens to remain unswayed...

The PuLsE on Sakura

Anyone with a speck of loyalty to Kira must be disturbed by these dark rumors about his fate. We believe that these allegations must be answered! We will not sleep soundly in our beds until they are.

Takada on Taiyo!

Fear is uncalled for at the moment. Remember, it only takes one word from Kira to set matters right.

However - she stares soulfully into the camera - if he remains silent in the face of rumors such as these, then I'm afraid we must assume someone is acting illicitly in his stead. And we must ask them to explain why they have kept silent as our God quietly disappeared.

[peace-01]

Unfortunately or fortunately, the appeals didn't force Kira to make a statement. Or perhaps the public's expectations were too short. By the next morning, protests had already begun, drawing colossal crowds. The rallies began in Tokyo, but the trend spread to other cities and eventually, other countries. While the video questionnaires were filled out primarily by Japanese people, calls like "bring back Kira" or "kill the usurper" caught on more in America. By then, Sugawara had already contacted the Nears internal network, but he did so reluctantly, doubting that the current situation could truly produce results. Just as he was about to turn off the television, a proclamation blared on all the channels that had agreed to it:

"This is Kira speaking. The one and only God."

As the announcement was also broadcast on street televisions, the demonstration in central Tokyo froze, staring upward in a mixture of intrigue and confusion:

"…I appreciate your concern. But what you're doing is meaningless. God can't "disappear". I can't disappear. Just as I can't be replaced. The body is dead, but I'm here."

The words were spoken by a male voice, whose owner, by subjective estimates, was between twenty and thirty years old.

"…The people who challenge Kira are just...humans. I have no intention of wasting my time on them. I am the one who controls death. I am the one who protects the innocent. Since when have you questioned the actions of your God?"

Identifying him was difficult due to the filter applied:

"…Good and honest people who believe I was mistaken, I heard you. The rest, those who exploit discord to eliminate me: you are living your last days. I will destroy you with a single finger."

[peace-01]

First order, dull but necessary: make sure everyone's got the same tally of "cigarettes."

Then, through the morning of the eighth, Near worked intensively with Spiderkiller and the fourth Maid (now calling herself Thumbs; with two members sensibly out of Japan and the third one deeply unphotogenic, Seven Mops didn't have much of a place for a sound editor) to get something through to the rival networks. Spiderkiller was good at what he did. Not quite on par with Matt, another of the multitude who had simply disappeared into the ether, but good enough for NHK's firewall, and that was the sternest of the lot. (That included NHN's, incidentally. Sloppy. Spiderkiller had his engagement for tomorrow.)

At 6 PM on the eighth, a general staff meeting was held at Fukuchi Towers on the subject of Lady Phantasme.

Primarily: the ability to see her shinigami.

Each cigarette was therefore laid out at the head of a queue, and the portion of the Towers staff corresponding to each cigarette was to touch it. If any of them were not able to see Ryuk in the following video demonstration, there were bound to be complaints.

The meeting went until seven sharp, without breaks permitted.

Meanwhile, the team at the bunker got to work doctoring the archives of the six o'clock news. So far as streamer-come-latelys are concerned, the man who held up the convenience store in Shinjuku does not exist. For a control sample, they then repeated the exercise for the news at seven, eight and nine. If the convenience store robber does not die, but the others do, then Kira-2 is liable to be at Fukuchi Towers.

Results?

Inside every single cigarette—without exception—was concealed a small scrap of a Death Note page. Consequently, any staff member who had touched them would now be able to see Ryuk without obstruction, should he appear in their vicinity. None of the scraps were damaged or bore any written notes; in other words, they were all fully functional.

Subsequent investigative steps likewise yielded no suspicious results. It appeared that Kira-2 had absolutely no connection to the Fukuchi Towers.

[near-n]

So much for that, then. The possibility of an informant was harder to nail down, but the likeliest candidate for an informant was highly apparent.

Do any of the fingerprints in Spiderkiller's database correspond to the identity profile for Koji Minoru?

[peace-01]

The fingerprints don't match the database. "Koji Minoru" also appears to be his real name, as you can even find information about his place of residence if you look. But beyond the fact that he lives in Kanto, this doesn't provide any important thing.

[peace-01]

First order, dull but necessary: make sure everyone's got the same tally of "cigarettes."

Then, through the morning of the eighth, Near worked intensively with Spiderkiller and the fourth Maid (now calling herself Thumbs; with two members sensibly out of Japan and the third one deeply unphotogenic, Seven Mops didn't have much of a place for a sound editor) to get something through to the rival networks. Spiderkiller was good at what he did. Not quite on par with Matt, another of the multitude who had simply disappeared into the ether, but good enough for NHK's firewall, and that was the sternest of the lot. (That included NHN's, incidentally. Sloppy. Spiderkiller had his engagement for tomorrow.)

At 6 PM on the eighth, a general staff meeting was held at Fukuchi Towers on the subject of Lady Phantasme.

Primarily: the ability to see her shinigami.

Each cigarette was therefore laid out at the head of a queue, and the portion of the Towers staff corresponding to each cigarette was to touch it. If any of them were not able to see Ryuk in the following video demonstration, there were bound to be complaints.

The meeting went until seven sharp, without breaks permitted.

Meanwhile, the team at the bunker got to work doctoring the archives of the six o'clock news. So far as streamer-come-latelys are concerned, the man who held up the convenience store in Shinjuku does not exist. For a control sample, they then repeated the exercise for the news at seven, eight and nine. If the convenience store robber does not die, but the others do, then Kira-2 is liable to be at Fukuchi Towers.

Results?

Inside every single cigarette—without exception—was concealed a small scrap of a Death Note page. Consequently, any staff member who had touched them would now be able to see Ryuk without obstruction, should he appear in their vicinity. None of the scraps were damaged or bore any written notes; in other words, they were all fully functional.

Subsequent investigative steps likewise yielded no suspicious results. It appeared that Kira-2 had absolutely no connection to the Fukuchi Towers.

[bigwiggins]

Nobu remained motionless for a long time. He had no way to follow the plan or oppose it, but the cries of "Kira, come here!" and pleas to kill the NHN-group ceased. He suddenly stood up and turned toward the door, turning slightly pale. Anyone? Eh? Can anyone come here?

@peace-01

Returner ran his fingers over his goggles. You know, I think it's about time I took rec room duty.

He's definitely used up his "special request", but if he's finally talking sense again, guess protocol says you reward it... yeah, you handle things in the rec room. I'll take care of it.

[peace-01]

Nobu winced, stopping at the door. He stared ahead for a long moment (at least, it seemed almost interminable to him), unsure of what he wanted. It wasn't pain or suffocation. Nobu simply felt a sudden sense of dread, like when you go to bed after watching a scary movie. You know no one can get into your house unless they've lived there from the start. But then you're tormented by the thought: what if someone really was there from the start?

Nobu placed his hand just below his neck, then moved it down, stopping at the spot where his heart was. Then he fell. Finding himself on the floor, Nobu shuddered violently several times, and then his face relaxed, like fabric smoothed out by ironing it.

[peace-01]

Near brought up TheExecutionList.org, got out a mechanical pencil, and set out to write the kill list for the past three days. The metrics he was looking for:

How much time does a day's worth of judgment take?

At what hours did the judgments in fact occur?

Do the judgments fill up an even page? If not, is the likely adjustment for handwriting size, for missed tally, or for sloppiness in the Kira?

But he had not counted on:

4. The list of names for the seventh is significantly smaller than the lists for the previous two days. How does this affect the above metrics?

Criminal deaths occurred every weekday, from eight in the morning until six in the evening. The number of victims per hour varied. Sometimes it reached ten, sometimes less than three. Most often, these were criminals named on the previous evening's news. Criminals from Japan died first. Then, when their numbers ran out, criminals from other countries began to die.

[peace-01]

You're blind and not too functional in the aerobics and coordination departments, but nothing's wrong with your hearing.

“Seventy percent. If that's how sure Armor is, I'd like to know where he was at the intake--”

“Less talking, more restraining--” A thump and a hiss: your foot's connected with the speaker's face. “Okay, that's... spicy. I might have to... ugh...”

“No, not that way, try--”

Someone's succeeded in chaining your right leg to a fixed object.

Nobu narrowed his eyes, shrugging his shoulder as if in a thwarted attempt to raise his arm. A moment ago, he'd wanted to make a joke by raising his fist, but now that joke would be impossible. He'd look pathetic, attacking blindly. His face twisted, but his muscles didn't tense. The pain was clearly still there, but he seemed almost unfazed by his new position. Honestly, he decided that the immobility wasn't his problem. The others would deal with it now. The only thing that triggered a reaction in him was the chain. At least, he was sure it was that.

Hey,

Nobu moved his leg. Then again, as if trying to test how tightly he was locked in. Then he began to move with all his might, his whole body, hoping it would have an effect.

[bigwiggins]

The bed was inching from its former place, for sure, but not much more than that. Just get the other leg bound up, and...

At least he's made basically no use of this room. Just move him next door and give the place a good deep-clean... he can take his own shower, though. He's probably got the pride to see it through.

And there are the hands.

Right, next instructions. Take apart his shoes first, then examine the underwear, then the lining of his clothing, "in ascending order of stupidity." Armor didn't seem the type to dodge the blame, but that didn't sound entirely like a "mea culpa."

[peace-01]

Nobu twitched for less than a minute before a thought stopped him. He suddenly froze, relaxed, as if completely resigned, and from that moment on, there was no sign of resistance. He simply realized that this was most likely a preparation for a meeting with Light. A very peculiar one. And even if it wasn't, well, that interpretation made him feel better.

There was nothing in his clothes. But in his shoe, under the sole, barely visible but palpable when pressed, another cigarette could be found. Its appearance left much to be desired. Not only because of the place Nobu had thought to hide it, but because it had been rolled by himself. It looked like he had hidden a small, thin piece of paper inside.

[bigwiggins]

So that's... yesterday's eight-o'-clock special, right?

Just the footage from the lobby, I think...

Returner just leant back against the wall with a sigh of relief. If they didn't find anything on his person, one implication was that he would have made an assault. And personally, he didn't like his chances.

He... still didn't, actually.

I... brought my second mask, for what it's worth.

Under that? His colleague gave him a disbelieving look.

Sure, it fits. He raised his aviator goggles to reveal a dapper white eye-mask.

...Mortality zones, Mamoru Chiba. Look 'em up. He paused mid-eye-roll and gave the piece of paper a more thoughtful glance. You know what, I'll give the car a check. Just for the sake of thoroughness.

Sure. It's a lot easier to make a break if you just... write that it happened.

Returner came over in gooseflesh at how close the call had been. Not that he was about to let Bi-ki know about that...

So, in case you wondered, the answer's no. Bigwiggins was overruled. Also, from now on, we're practicing what we preach. No more talking politics, no more talking about your crime, and above all? No more outside deals.

Let's get you next door. Fresh clothes should come up during your shower. It'll be long and unpleasant, but it's the only cure there is.

[certifiedapplelover]

After a little bit, as instructed by Lady from the phone call, he manages to get to the exact location she wanted him to be in. This time, Ryuk intends to be sneakier than last time. Last time was uhm.. a disaster. One that he does not intend to make again if he wants his hands on those apples.

Sure, he's being cornered and manipulated through means of apples, but it keeps the story going! So it's a win win for him.. amirite?

As he goes overhead, he peaks in from the conversation. He doesn't know when to exactly call Lady back without causing much noise.. guess he will have to be as quiet as a mouse.

After realizing they were moving yet again, Ryuk stutters in his movement, repositioning.

Okay. Your one mission.. don't get caught, Ryuk.

[peace-01]

Nobu bowed his head wearily. He hadn't noticed Ryuk and, frankly, he probably hadn't been alert enough to even consider him nearby. He was more worried about the canceled meeting. Shit. This was a problem. A big problem.

On the other hand, if there was no meeting, then Kira had already done something. He could only guess whether it was something good or something bad. Technically, neither Light nor Kira needed the meeting. It was surprising that Light had even agreed to it. If it was Light. If Kira hadn't...

Nobu froze thoughtfully. He suddenly raised his head, squinting. If Kira had already returned, and if the meeting was canceled, that meant Kira could hear him on a regular basis.

Kira! Kill them now, Kira!

Apparently...nothing had happened.

[bigwiggins]

Returner scratched his head. So... if he stops talking about anything but Kira at this point, is that technically solitary?

I guess there's always the dogged change of subject. But mental health is supposed to be part of this package, and we're not exactly... Never mind. Let's get this over with.

They hauled Nobu to the cell next door, making a very delicate operation of the unfastening and making an orderly rush to the exit.

Y'know, the car would be pretty useful by itself.

Yeah, but I mean. He had the one piece on him, and clearly he's rattled we found it. He's close to the whole book.

Or... maybe he's just unhappy we couldn't book him an appointment with God today. Look, the computers are right by the lockers, let's verify.

They troop down the staircase, and then down the main hall to an elevator, a keypad beside it. As Lady Phantasme predicted, not one has thought to look upward and behind them.

[peace-01]

Once in the next room, Nobu didn't calm down. It seemed the question of talking to Kira was more important to him than formalities. He might be considered crazy. Although, perhaps that was even better. The meeting hadn't happened not because something had happened to Kira. But because he was concerned about his reputation, avoiding the risk of arousing unnecessary suspicion. If Nobu said anything directly to Kira, it would lead to problems. But if Kira had gained significant power here, he would receive the information at the same time as everyone else. There was probably a camera or microphones in the room.

He continued shouting "Kira!" for a while, then added, "Have you killed him yet?" and finally, he grew tired. It became quiet.

[peace-01]

You're blind and not too functional in the aerobics and coordination departments, but nothing's wrong with your hearing.

“Seventy percent. If that's how sure Armor is, I'd like to know where he was at the intake--”

“Less talking, more restraining--” A thump and a hiss: your foot's connected with the speaker's face. “Okay, that's... spicy. I might have to... ugh...”

“No, not that way, try--”

Someone's succeeded in chaining your right leg to a fixed object.

Nobu narrowed his eyes, shrugging his shoulder as if in a thwarted attempt to raise his arm. A moment ago, he'd wanted to make a joke by raising his fist, but now that joke would be impossible. He'd look pathetic, attacking blindly. His face twisted, but his muscles didn't tense. The pain was clearly still there, but he seemed almost unfazed by his new position. Honestly, he decided that the immobility wasn't his problem. The others would deal with it now. The only thing that triggered a reaction in him was the chain. At least, he was sure it was that.

Hey,

Nobu moved his leg. Then again, as if trying to test how tightly he was locked in. Then he began to move with all his might, his whole body, hoping it would have an effect.

[bigwiggins]

The bed was inching from its former place, for sure, but not much more than that. Just get the other leg bound up, and...

At least he's made basically no use of this room. Just move him next door and give the place a good deep-clean... he can take his own shower, though. He's probably got the pride to see it through.

And there are the hands.

Right, next instructions. Take apart his shoes first, then examine the underwear, then the lining of his clothing, "in ascending order of stupidity." Armor didn't seem the type to dodge the blame, but that didn't sound entirely like a "mea culpa."

[peace-01]

Nobu twitched for less than a minute before a thought stopped him. He suddenly froze, relaxed, as if completely resigned, and from that moment on, there was no sign of resistance. He simply realized that this was most likely a preparation for a meeting with Light. A very peculiar one. And even if it wasn't, well, that interpretation made him feel better.

There was nothing in his clothes. But in his shoe, under the sole, barely visible but palpable when pressed, another cigarette could be found. Its appearance left much to be desired. Not only because of the place Nobu had thought to hide it, but because it had been rolled by himself. It looked like he had hidden a small, thin piece of paper inside.

[bigwiggins]

So that's... yesterday's eight-o'-clock special, right?

Just the footage from the lobby, I think...

Returner just leant back against the wall with a sigh of relief. If they didn't find anything on his person, one implication was that he would have made an assault. And personally, he didn't like his chances.

He... still didn't, actually.

I... brought my second mask, for what it's worth.

Under that? His colleague gave him a disbelieving look.

Sure, it fits. He raised his aviator goggles to reveal a dapper white eye-mask.

...Mortality zones, Mamoru Chiba. Look 'em up. He paused mid-eye-roll and gave the piece of paper a more thoughtful glance. You know what, I'll give the car a check. Just for the sake of thoroughness.

Sure. It's a lot easier to make a break if you just... write that it happened.

Returner came over in gooseflesh at how close the call had been. Not that he was about to let Bi-ki know about that...

So, in case you wondered, the answer's no. Bigwiggins was overruled. Also, from now on, we're practicing what we preach. No more talking politics, no more talking about your crime, and above all? No more outside deals.

Let's get you next door. Fresh clothes should come up during your shower. It'll be long and unpleasant, but it's the only cure there is.

[certifiedapplelover]

After a little bit, as instructed by Lady from the phone call, he manages to get to the exact location she wanted him to be in. This time, Ryuk intends to be sneakier than last time. Last time was uhm.. a disaster. One that he does not intend to make again if he wants his hands on those apples.

Sure, he's being cornered and manipulated through means of apples, but it keeps the story going! So it's a win win for him.. amirite?

As he goes overhead, he peaks in from the conversation. He doesn't know when to exactly call Lady back without causing much noise.. guess he will have to be as quiet as a mouse.

After realizing they were moving yet again, Ryuk stutters in his movement, repositioning.

Okay. Your one mission.. don't get caught, Ryuk.

[peace-01]

Nobu bowed his head wearily. He hadn't noticed Ryuk and, frankly, he probably hadn't been alert enough to even consider him nearby. He was more worried about the canceled meeting. Shit. This was a problem. A big problem.

On the other hand, if there was no meeting, then Kira had already done something. He could only guess whether it was something good or something bad. Technically, neither Light nor Kira needed the meeting. It was surprising that Light had even agreed to it. If it was Light. If Kira hadn't...

Nobu froze thoughtfully. He suddenly raised his head, squinting. If Kira had already returned, and if the meeting was canceled, that meant Kira could hear him on a regular basis.

Kira! Kill them now, Kira!

Apparently...nothing had happened.

[peace-01]

You're blind and not too functional in the aerobics and coordination departments, but nothing's wrong with your hearing.

“Seventy percent. If that's how sure Armor is, I'd like to know where he was at the intake--”

“Less talking, more restraining--” A thump and a hiss: your foot's connected with the speaker's face. “Okay, that's... spicy. I might have to... ugh...”

“No, not that way, try--”

Someone's succeeded in chaining your right leg to a fixed object.

Nobu narrowed his eyes, shrugging his shoulder as if in a thwarted attempt to raise his arm. A moment ago, he'd wanted to make a joke by raising his fist, but now that joke would be impossible. He'd look pathetic, attacking blindly. His face twisted, but his muscles didn't tense. The pain was clearly still there, but he seemed almost unfazed by his new position. Honestly, he decided that the immobility wasn't his problem. The others would deal with it now. The only thing that triggered a reaction in him was the chain. At least, he was sure it was that.

Hey,

Nobu moved his leg. Then again, as if trying to test how tightly he was locked in. Then he began to move with all his might, his whole body, hoping it would have an effect.

[bigwiggins]

The bed was inching from its former place, for sure, but not much more than that. Just get the other leg bound up, and...

At least he's made basically no use of this room. Just move him next door and give the place a good deep-clean... he can take his own shower, though. He's probably got the pride to see it through.

And there are the hands.

Right, next instructions. Take apart his shoes first, then examine the underwear, then the lining of his clothing, "in ascending order of stupidity." Armor didn't seem the type to dodge the blame, but that didn't sound entirely like a "mea culpa."

[peace-01]

Nobu twitched for less than a minute before a thought stopped him. He suddenly froze, relaxed, as if completely resigned, and from that moment on, there was no sign of resistance. He simply realized that this was most likely a preparation for a meeting with Light. A very peculiar one. And even if it wasn't, well, that interpretation made him feel better.

There was nothing in his clothes. But in his shoe, under the sole, barely visible but palpable when pressed, another cigarette could be found. Its appearance left much to be desired. Not only because of the place Nobu had thought to hide it, but because it had been rolled by himself. It looked like he had hidden a small, thin piece of paper inside.

[peace-01]

You're blind and not too functional in the aerobics and coordination departments, but nothing's wrong with your hearing.

“Seventy percent. If that's how sure Armor is, I'd like to know where he was at the intake--”

“Less talking, more restraining--” A thump and a hiss: your foot's connected with the speaker's face. “Okay, that's... spicy. I might have to... ugh...”

“No, not that way, try--”

Someone's succeeded in chaining your right leg to a fixed object.

Nobu narrowed his eyes, shrugging his shoulder as if in a thwarted attempt to raise his arm. A moment ago, he'd wanted to make a joke by raising his fist, but now that joke would be impossible. He'd look pathetic, attacking blindly. His face twisted, but his muscles didn't tense. The pain was clearly still there, but he seemed almost unfazed by his new position. Honestly, he decided that the immobility wasn't his problem. The others would deal with it now. The only thing that triggered a reaction in him was the chain. At least, he was sure it was that.

Hey,

Nobu moved his leg. Then again, as if trying to test how tightly he was locked in. Then he began to move with all his might, his whole body, hoping it would have an effect.

[peace-01]

About four minutes after Ryuk has gone from your window, there is a knock on your door.

Nobu sighed. Frankly, he was disappointed they'd vanished so quickly. The rest of this place was boring, and he'd almost gotten used to sudden, interesting events. It was reminiscent of the years when he'd been addicted to card games. He wondered if he'd gotten the Death Note in the first place, how things would have turned out. Shinigami, plans. He chuckled. No. It's unlikely he would have come up with anything… Nobu turned toward the door. Uh?

[bigwiggins]

Your retinue of six NHN guards has arrived. (It's the shirts and slacks that are uniform: the masks and occasional hats are as varied as at a comic book festival.)

Returner, at the front of one of the rows, gives a long-suffering sigh.

So, I guess we're doing this.

[peace-01]

Nobu snorted. He quickly reverted to boredom or resignation. At the very least, he clearly had no intention of resisting or fighting. Although, judging by his posture, that was a possibility. He glanced at his interlocutors, specifically sweeping his gaze over their heads, as if drawing a line. Then he shrugged and nodded obediently.

[peace-01]

About four minutes after Ryuk has gone from your window, there is a knock on your door.

Nobu sighed. Frankly, he was disappointed they'd vanished so quickly. The rest of this place was boring, and he'd almost gotten used to sudden, interesting events. It was reminiscent of the years when he'd been addicted to card games. He wondered if he'd gotten the Death Note in the first place, how things would have turned out. Shinigami, plans. He chuckled. No. It's unlikely he would have come up with anything… Nobu turned toward the door. Uh?

[peace-01]

Obvious question: what do NHN veterans and/or the public know about Koji Minoru?

Koji is approximately thirty years old. He's been working as a lawyer for the past few years, but has never directly expressed his political stance. He's won almost all of his cases, but defended "ordinary citizens," without high-profile crimes, and so has enjoyed little popularity or success. He's known in some circles, but that's about it. He was one of the first to respond when talk of reopening the judicial system began in Japan. And it seems he's been quite successful and persistent in this endeavor. At least because he's still alive.

[lady-phantasme]

You maniac! You blew it all up!

[The Masque Against the Red Death blog. November 7, 2008.]

Good morning, beautiful readers! You've heard the rumors, and yup, can confirm. Those kills are all yours truly. That Ken doll from Furansu Beat included. Someone out there is bound to understand... isn't that right, sweetie?

If you want the measure of NHN's continued circle round the toilet hole, note that their main response to forty of their supposed enemies meeting their fiery reward has been to go BAAWWW about the air pollution in Tokyo this morning.

Which brings me to Montag. Oh, Montag, you treacherous shitheel, you. I hope he really hurt you, when he found out I wasn't coming to the party. On second thought, maybe that little spat is better off as pure, bloodless kabuki. I've been boning up on Foxe's Book of Martyrs, just for our reunion, and a virgin field widens the possibilities.

Oh, but I forget I haven't let you in the loop, my lovelies. Yesterday morning? Turns out Montag actively conspired with Kira against me. See, a little bird told me: Kira's personally embedded with the network.

In short? Anyone who opposes Kira and thinks Bigwimp's scrawny little puppet body will save them is a drooling moron and ripe for another uptick in the air pollution index.

Slim! Call me!

---

Only the frosting on the cake was lacking. To wit: Guest038. Wherever he was, he sure wasn't in any position to read 'em and weep. Never mind crawl.

On the other hand... if Montag hasn't got everyone's short hairs in a vise by now, Lady Phantasme had a pretty educated guess as to where Guest038 would be...

@certifiedapplelover, she said softly.

What would you say to a cell phone?

[certifiedapplelover]

His grin stretched slowly. After seeing the absolute disaster from Lady's post online, and it spreading like wildfire.. oh, so bliss. If only he could have the same feeling humans do in the thrill of it all. Of course, he feels the thrill, just.. on a different level from the rest.

I wouldn't mind. what's in it for me?

He wouldn't budge as easily.. unless. Lady may try with her dreamy appearance, but not today!

[lady-phantasme]

Uhh. Cheap thrills? That's your button, isn't it...?

Okay, maybe she should have fully acknowledged those apple symptoms for what they were.

...Venus apple. Buttery texture, bit of a tropical blend. Ready when you get back.

She holds out a burner. So, remember that place where I shot Higuchi in the brainpan? Go to the fifth floor. Knock on the windows. I'll call this phone now, just keep it running and on speaker.

[certifiedapplelover]

On it. Hyuk..

You didn't even have to elaborate any further. He was already up and ready before you knew it. Now, with Guest038's reaction to a floating phone.. that sounds more than fun.

And with that, he was gone.

. . .

Time passed by, and a floating phone was definitely a weird sight for some who were unfortunate to see it. He did his best to remain out of the public eye. Soon enough, he was there, the building..

Ryuk always thought Higuchi was a funny guy. And, also funny looking, too.

With Lady nearby so he could be able to stay in her radar enough to go on his own, he held the phone as tightly as he could. She watched him glide in the air, and finally; to the windows.

You sure this is it?

He spoke over the phone for confirmation. He swore he heard her sigh in annoyance.

[lady-phantasme]

Just five rooms, if you're not lost. That's ten security windows. Good. Not lost. Just.. fly around and bang till we get it.

She follows up every rap of your knuckles with delirious catcalls.

Yoo-hoo! Guest038! Want to guess why the air smells so smoky this fine morning~?

( @peace-01 )

[peace-01]

Nobu stared at the now-dark phone screen for a moment. Sure, he could relay the information directly, but any call or message would be scrutinized too closely. He could say, "Everything's going according to plan," or "It's over," and all those words would come back to haunt him. Maybe not the rhetoric itself, but who the message was sent to. Everything was important. He lacked the logic to put it all together correctly, and Kira hadn't given him any guidance. Well, let him just...

He froze upon seeing Ryuk. Nobu's expression barely changed, but upon closer inspection, his skin was noticeable in a couple of places, creasing into new wrinkles. He had seen Ryuk, that was certain, but he was also seeing him for the first time. And that distracted him from everything around him.

Fine morning...

[certifiedapplelover]

Hey, how ya doing?

He says in the most nonchalant ways possible, like he didn't just scare the shit out of Nobu. To be fair, Ryuk is at least trying a little bit to appear as chill to make this somewhat comfortable for him. And also, he's just not one to purposefully make people scared of him.

He also forgets how ugly he appears. Guess the Shinigami's back in his realm were right, he really isn't that good looking..

His stare is very menacing..

[peace-01]

Nobu blinked several times. This creature. Exactly. Without a doubt. He knew its name. He knew who it was. Kira had described it as a large, eccentric creature, black and gray. But there was no threat in those words. It wasn't a warning, more like boasting. Something like, "Sooner or later you'll see my purebred dog and be pleased with it." Nobu was more afraid. But his eyes also gleamed, which looked out of place on his still face.

You...

He squinted, as if in a bright light.

Huh.

[lady-phantasme]

And there you are! sang Lady Phantasme. My old drunk-dial... but lo and behold, look who's gone and sobered up! (While she shows no sign of being under the influence of any particular substance, this still doesn't seem entirely accurate. She's as giddy as a child at an amusement park.) Oh, I've had an excellent offer, but if you're able to counter it, all the better, not least for journalistic integrity... don't suppose you got any writing in during that little tiff? So sorry I couldn't attend!

[peace-01]

Nobu chuckled. He bowed his head, though his whole demeanor suggested something between "I don't believe you" and "I'm glad to see you." Perhaps all these events were leading up to his death, but... he's a bodyguard. Death is a matter of time. Besides, he's ex-military, so death was already creeping up on him from other places. Or flying. Hello, Ryuk.

What exactly do you want?

He chuckled, crossing his arms. A little more and he'd be able to talk to Light, but it was too early to throw that information around. Lady would probably be pleased.

[lady-phantasme]

Lady Phantasme laughs in sheer delight.

And would you look at that, we're in our first ever straightforward conversation! Oh this is glorious...

You want your tacks in brass for once, why, I can provide.

Sooo, Montag's telling me he'll send me a copy of your ID, if I only retract my nasty words about him. No idea if it's photo, but consider? You've got a seven-foot-tall death deity looking at you right now, and he loves me.

On the other hand. You're in prison. Montag's at large and in charge. And spewing Kira bullshit to my readership... sure, reasonable price for killing you, wanker, but only just.

So, what're you willing to give me?

[peace-01]

Nobu chuckled. His face was hardly designed for such emotion, so his lips muffled the sound. Well, let Ryuk love her. So what? As if there was any point in wasting time on that.

I'm not in prison.

He shrugged lazily. Of course, this was the equivalent of prison, and Nobu was serving time here. But that's not quite what he had in mind.

I'm here to talk to the guy who knows where the Death Note is. I don't know exactly when I'll be allowed to. But after that, I'll have this information. And I'll pass it on to you. Not in exchange for saving my life, just because.

[certifiedapplelover]

Hey! Uh- that's not correct..

He starts to sweat nervously from Lady's words. He quickly regain his composure. After hearing them go back and forth, he couldn't help but put his two cents in..

Oohhh, drama!

[peace-01]

Nobu chuckled. Kira had said Ryuk wasn't scary at all, but frankly, beyond that, the creature left a rather delightful impression. Something like the afterglow of a roller coaster ride. Nobu wiped his forehead, but it looked like he was smoothing his hair. Not that he had much hair, so the movement looked slightly comical.

Nah. It's okay. Lady Gold is just showing off. And I also know where Kira might be next. You're both kyōmigāru, I'm sure. Didn't you miss him, Ryuk?

[lady-phantasme]

You maniac! You blew it all up!

[The Masque Against the Red Death blog. November 7, 2008.]

Good morning, beautiful readers! You've heard the rumors, and yup, can confirm. Those kills are all yours truly. That Ken doll from Furansu Beat included. Someone out there is bound to understand... isn't that right, sweetie?

If you want the measure of NHN's continued circle round the toilet hole, note that their main response to forty of their supposed enemies meeting their fiery reward has been to go BAAWWW about the air pollution in Tokyo this morning.

Which brings me to Montag. Oh, Montag, you treacherous shitheel, you. I hope he really hurt you, when he found out I wasn't coming to the party. On second thought, maybe that little spat is better off as pure, bloodless kabuki. I've been boning up on Foxe's Book of Martyrs, just for our reunion, and a virgin field widens the possibilities.

Oh, but I forget I haven't let you in the loop, my lovelies. Yesterday morning? Turns out Montag actively conspired with Kira against me. See, a little bird told me: Kira's personally embedded with the network.

In short? Anyone who opposes Kira and thinks Bigwimp's scrawny little puppet body will save them is a drooling moron and ripe for another uptick in the air pollution index.

Slim! Call me!

---

Only the frosting on the cake was lacking. To wit: Guest038. Wherever he was, he sure wasn't in any position to read 'em and weep. Never mind crawl.

On the other hand... if Montag hasn't got everyone's short hairs in a vise by now, Lady Phantasme had a pretty educated guess as to where Guest038 would be...

@certifiedapplelover, she said softly.

What would you say to a cell phone?

[certifiedapplelover]

His grin stretched slowly. After seeing the absolute disaster from Lady's post online, and it spreading like wildfire.. oh, so bliss. If only he could have the same feeling humans do in the thrill of it all. Of course, he feels the thrill, just.. on a different level from the rest.

I wouldn't mind. what's in it for me?

He wouldn't budge as easily.. unless. Lady may try with her dreamy appearance, but not today!

[lady-phantasme]

Uhh. Cheap thrills? That's your button, isn't it...?

Okay, maybe she should have fully acknowledged those apple symptoms for what they were.

...Venus apple. Buttery texture, bit of a tropical blend. Ready when you get back.

She holds out a burner. So, remember that place where I shot Higuchi in the brainpan? Go to the fifth floor. Knock on the windows. I'll call this phone now, just keep it running and on speaker.

[certifiedapplelover]

On it. Hyuk..

You didn't even have to elaborate any further. He was already up and ready before you knew it. Now, with Guest038's reaction to a floating phone.. that sounds more than fun.

And with that, he was gone.

. . .

Time passed by, and a floating phone was definitely a weird sight for some who were unfortunate to see it. He did his best to remain out of the public eye. Soon enough, he was there, the building..

Ryuk always thought Higuchi was a funny guy. And, also funny looking, too.

With Lady nearby so he could be able to stay in her radar enough to go on his own, he held the phone as tightly as he could. She watched him glide in the air, and finally; to the windows.

You sure this is it?

He spoke over the phone for confirmation. He swore he heard her sigh in annoyance.

[lady-phantasme]

Just five rooms, if you're not lost. That's ten security windows. Good. Not lost. Just.. fly around and bang till we get it.

She follows up every rap of your knuckles with delirious catcalls.

Yoo-hoo! Guest038! Want to guess why the air smells so smoky this fine morning~?

( @peace-01 )

[peace-01]

Nobu stared at the now-dark phone screen for a moment. Sure, he could relay the information directly, but any call or message would be scrutinized too closely. He could say, "Everything's going according to plan," or "It's over," and all those words would come back to haunt him. Maybe not the rhetoric itself, but who the message was sent to. Everything was important. He lacked the logic to put it all together correctly, and Kira hadn't given him any guidance. Well, let him just...

He froze upon seeing Ryuk. Nobu's expression barely changed, but upon closer inspection, his skin was noticeable in a couple of places, creasing into new wrinkles. He had seen Ryuk, that was certain, but he was also seeing him for the first time. And that distracted him from everything around him.

Fine morning...

[certifiedapplelover]

Hey, how ya doing?

He says in the most nonchalant ways possible, like he didn't just scare the shit out of Nobu. To be fair, Ryuk is at least trying a little bit to appear as chill to make this somewhat comfortable for him. And also, he's just not one to purposefully make people scared of him.

He also forgets how ugly he appears. Guess the Shinigami's back in his realm were right, he really isn't that good looking..

His stare is very menacing..

[peace-01]

Nobu blinked several times. This creature. Exactly. Without a doubt. He knew its name. He knew who it was. Kira had described it as a large, eccentric creature, black and gray. But there was no threat in those words. It wasn't a warning, more like boasting. Something like, "Sooner or later you'll see my purebred dog and be pleased with it." Nobu was more afraid. But his eyes also gleamed, which looked out of place on his still face.

You...

He squinted, as if in a bright light.

Huh.

[lady-phantasme]

And there you are! sang Lady Phantasme. My old drunk-dial... but lo and behold, look who's gone and sobered up! (While she shows no sign of being under the influence of any particular substance, this still doesn't seem entirely accurate. She's as giddy as a child at an amusement park.) Oh, I've had an excellent offer, but if you're able to counter it, all the better, not least for journalistic integrity... don't suppose you got any writing in during that little tiff? So sorry I couldn't attend!

[peace-01]

Nobu chuckled. He bowed his head, though his whole demeanor suggested something between "I don't believe you" and "I'm glad to see you." Perhaps all these events were leading up to his death, but... he's a bodyguard. Death is a matter of time. Besides, he's ex-military, so death was already creeping up on him from other places. Or flying. Hello, Ryuk.

What exactly do you want?

He chuckled, crossing his arms. A little more and he'd be able to talk to Light, but it was too early to throw that information around. Lady would probably be pleased.

[lady-phantasme]

Lady Phantasme laughs in sheer delight.

And would you look at that, we're in our first ever straightforward conversation! Oh this is glorious...

You want your tacks in brass for once, why, I can provide.

Sooo, Montag's telling me he'll send me a copy of your ID, if I only retract my nasty words about him. No idea if it's photo, but consider? You've got a seven-foot-tall death deity looking at you right now, and he loves me.

On the other hand. You're in prison. Montag's at large and in charge. And spewing Kira bullshit to my readership... sure, reasonable price for killing you, wanker, but only just.

So, what're you willing to give me?

[peace-01]

Nobu chuckled. His face was hardly designed for such emotion, so his lips muffled the sound. Well, let Ryuk love her. So what? As if there was any point in wasting time on that.

I'm not in prison.

He shrugged lazily. Of course, this was the equivalent of prison, and Nobu was serving time here. But that's not quite what he had in mind.

I'm here to talk to the guy who knows where the Death Note is. I don't know exactly when I'll be allowed to. But after that, I'll have this information. And I'll pass it on to you. Not in exchange for saving my life, just because.

[lady-phantasme]

You maniac! You blew it all up!

[The Masque Against the Red Death blog. November 7, 2008.]

Good morning, beautiful readers! You've heard the rumors, and yup, can confirm. Those kills are all yours truly. That Ken doll from Furansu Beat included. Someone out there is bound to understand... isn't that right, sweetie?

If you want the measure of NHN's continued circle round the toilet hole, note that their main response to forty of their supposed enemies meeting their fiery reward has been to go BAAWWW about the air pollution in Tokyo this morning.

Which brings me to Montag. Oh, Montag, you treacherous shitheel, you. I hope he really hurt you, when he found out I wasn't coming to the party. On second thought, maybe that little spat is better off as pure, bloodless kabuki. I've been boning up on Foxe's Book of Martyrs, just for our reunion, and a virgin field widens the possibilities.

Oh, but I forget I haven't let you in the loop, my lovelies. Yesterday morning? Turns out Montag actively conspired with Kira against me. See, a little bird told me: Kira's personally embedded with the network.

In short? Anyone who opposes Kira and thinks Bigwimp's scrawny little puppet body will save them is a drooling moron and ripe for another uptick in the air pollution index.

Slim! Call me!

---

Only the frosting on the cake was lacking. To wit: Guest038. Wherever he was, he sure wasn't in any position to read 'em and weep. Never mind crawl.

On the other hand... if Montag hasn't got everyone's short hairs in a vise by now, Lady Phantasme had a pretty educated guess as to where Guest038 would be...

@certifiedapplelover, she said softly.

What would you say to a cell phone?

[certifiedapplelover]

His grin stretched slowly. After seeing the absolute disaster from Lady's post online, and it spreading like wildfire.. oh, so bliss. If only he could have the same feeling humans do in the thrill of it all. Of course, he feels the thrill, just.. on a different level from the rest.

I wouldn't mind. what's in it for me?

He wouldn't budge as easily.. unless. Lady may try with her dreamy appearance, but not today!

[lady-phantasme]

Uhh. Cheap thrills? That's your button, isn't it...?

Okay, maybe she should have fully acknowledged those apple symptoms for what they were.

...Venus apple. Buttery texture, bit of a tropical blend. Ready when you get back.

She holds out a burner. So, remember that place where I shot Higuchi in the brainpan? Go to the fifth floor. Knock on the windows. I'll call this phone now, just keep it running and on speaker.

[certifiedapplelover]

On it. Hyuk..

You didn't even have to elaborate any further. He was already up and ready before you knew it. Now, with Guest038's reaction to a floating phone.. that sounds more than fun.

And with that, he was gone.

. . .

Time passed by, and a floating phone was definitely a weird sight for some who were unfortunate to see it. He did his best to remain out of the public eye. Soon enough, he was there, the building..

Ryuk always thought Higuchi was a funny guy. And, also funny looking, too.

With Lady nearby so he could be able to stay in her radar enough to go on his own, he held the phone as tightly as he could. She watched him glide in the air, and finally; to the windows.

You sure this is it?

He spoke over the phone for confirmation. He swore he heard her sigh in annoyance.

[lady-phantasme]

Just five rooms, if you're not lost. That's ten security windows. Good. Not lost. Just.. fly around and bang till we get it.

She follows up every rap of your knuckles with delirious catcalls.

Yoo-hoo! Guest038! Want to guess why the air smells so smoky this fine morning~?

( @peace-01 )

[peace-01]

Nobu stared at the now-dark phone screen for a moment. Sure, he could relay the information directly, but any call or message would be scrutinized too closely. He could say, "Everything's going according to plan," or "It's over," and all those words would come back to haunt him. Maybe not the rhetoric itself, but who the message was sent to. Everything was important. He lacked the logic to put it all together correctly, and Kira hadn't given him any guidance. Well, let him just...

He froze upon seeing Ryuk. Nobu's expression barely changed, but upon closer inspection, his skin was noticeable in a couple of places, creasing into new wrinkles. He had seen Ryuk, that was certain, but he was also seeing him for the first time. And that distracted him from everything around him.

Fine morning...

[certifiedapplelover]

Hey, how ya doing?

He says in the most nonchalant ways possible, like he didn't just scare the shit out of Nobu. To be fair, Ryuk is at least trying a little bit to appear as chill to make this somewhat comfortable for him. And also, he's just not one to purposefully make people scared of him.

He also forgets how ugly he appears. Guess the Shinigami's back in his realm were right, he really isn't that good looking..

His stare is very menacing..

[peace-01]

Nobu blinked several times. This creature. Exactly. Without a doubt. He knew its name. He knew who it was. Kira had described it as a large, eccentric creature, black and gray. But there was no threat in those words. It wasn't a warning, more like boasting. Something like, "Sooner or later you'll see my purebred dog and be pleased with it." Nobu was more afraid. But his eyes also gleamed, which looked out of place on his still face.

You...

He squinted, as if in a bright light.

Huh.

[lady-phantasme]

And there you are! sang Lady Phantasme. My old drunk-dial... but lo and behold, look who's gone and sobered up! (While she shows no sign of being under the influence of any particular substance, this still doesn't seem entirely accurate. She's as giddy as a child at an amusement park.) Oh, I've had an excellent offer, but if you're able to counter it, all the better, not least for journalistic integrity... don't suppose you got any writing in during that little tiff? So sorry I couldn't attend!

[peace-01]

Nobu chuckled. He bowed his head, though his whole demeanor suggested something between "I don't believe you" and "I'm glad to see you." Perhaps all these events were leading up to his death, but... he's a bodyguard. Death is a matter of time. Besides, he's ex-military, so death was already creeping up on him from other places. Or flying. Hello, Ryuk.

What exactly do you want?

He chuckled, crossing his arms. A little more and he'd be able to talk to Light, but it was too early to throw that information around. Lady would probably be pleased.

[lady-phantasme]

You maniac! You blew it all up!

[The Masque Against the Red Death blog. November 7, 2008.]

Good morning, beautiful readers! You've heard the rumors, and yup, can confirm. Those kills are all yours truly. That Ken doll from Furansu Beat included. Someone out there is bound to understand... isn't that right, sweetie?

If you want the measure of NHN's continued circle round the toilet hole, note that their main response to forty of their supposed enemies meeting their fiery reward has been to go BAAWWW about the air pollution in Tokyo this morning.

Which brings me to Montag. Oh, Montag, you treacherous shitheel, you. I hope he really hurt you, when he found out I wasn't coming to the party. On second thought, maybe that little spat is better off as pure, bloodless kabuki. I've been boning up on Foxe's Book of Martyrs, just for our reunion, and a virgin field widens the possibilities.

Oh, but I forget I haven't let you in the loop, my lovelies. Yesterday morning? Turns out Montag actively conspired with Kira against me. See, a little bird told me: Kira's personally embedded with the network.

In short? Anyone who opposes Kira and thinks Bigwimp's scrawny little puppet body will save them is a drooling moron and ripe for another uptick in the air pollution index.

Slim! Call me!

---

Only the frosting on the cake was lacking. To wit: Guest038. Wherever he was, he sure wasn't in any position to read 'em and weep. Never mind crawl.

On the other hand... if Montag hasn't got everyone's short hairs in a vise by now, Lady Phantasme had a pretty educated guess as to where Guest038 would be...

@certifiedapplelover, she said softly.

What would you say to a cell phone?

[certifiedapplelover]

His grin stretched slowly. After seeing the absolute disaster from Lady's post online, and it spreading like wildfire.. oh, so bliss. If only he could have the same feeling humans do in the thrill of it all. Of course, he feels the thrill, just.. on a different level from the rest.

I wouldn't mind. what's in it for me?

He wouldn't budge as easily.. unless. Lady may try with her dreamy appearance, but not today!

[lady-phantasme]

Uhh. Cheap thrills? That's your button, isn't it...?

Okay, maybe she should have fully acknowledged those apple symptoms for what they were.

...Venus apple. Buttery texture, bit of a tropical blend. Ready when you get back.

She holds out a burner. So, remember that place where I shot Higuchi in the brainpan? Go to the fifth floor. Knock on the windows. I'll call this phone now, just keep it running and on speaker.

[certifiedapplelover]

On it. Hyuk..

You didn't even have to elaborate any further. He was already up and ready before you knew it. Now, with Guest038's reaction to a floating phone.. that sounds more than fun.

And with that, he was gone.

. . .

Time passed by, and a floating phone was definitely a weird sight for some who were unfortunate to see it. He did his best to remain out of the public eye. Soon enough, he was there, the building..

Ryuk always thought Higuchi was a funny guy. And, also funny looking, too.

With Lady nearby so he could be able to stay in her radar enough to go on his own, he held the phone as tightly as he could. She watched him glide in the air, and finally; to the windows.

You sure this is it?

He spoke over the phone for confirmation. He swore he heard her sigh in annoyance.

[lady-phantasme]

Just five rooms, if you're not lost. That's ten security windows. Good. Not lost. Just.. fly around and bang till we get it.

She follows up every rap of your knuckles with delirious catcalls.

Yoo-hoo! Guest038! Want to guess why the air smells so smoky this fine morning~?

( @peace-01 )

[peace-01]

Nobu stared at the now-dark phone screen for a moment. Sure, he could relay the information directly, but any call or message would be scrutinized too closely. He could say, "Everything's going according to plan," or "It's over," and all those words would come back to haunt him. Maybe not the rhetoric itself, but who the message was sent to. Everything was important. He lacked the logic to put it all together correctly, and Kira hadn't given him any guidance. Well, let him just...

He froze upon seeing Ryuk. Nobu's expression barely changed, but upon closer inspection, his skin was noticeable in a couple of places, creasing into new wrinkles. He had seen Ryuk, that was certain, but he was also seeing him for the first time. And that distracted him from everything around him.

Fine morning...

[certifiedapplelover]

Hey, how ya doing?

He says in the most nonchalant ways possible, like he didn't just scare the shit out of Nobu. To be fair, Ryuk is at least trying a little bit to appear as chill to make this somewhat comfortable for him. And also, he's just not one to purposefully make people scared of him.

He also forgets how ugly he appears. Guess the Shinigami's back in his realm were right, he really isn't that good looking..

His stare is very menacing..

[peace-01]

Nobu blinked several times. This creature. Exactly. Without a doubt. He knew its name. He knew who it was. Kira had described it as a large, eccentric creature, black and gray. But there was no threat in those words. It wasn't a warning, more like boasting. Something like, "Sooner or later you'll see my purebred dog and be pleased with it." Nobu was more afraid. But his eyes also gleamed, which looked out of place on his still face.

You...

He squinted, as if in a bright light.

Huh.

[lady-phantasme]

You maniac! You blew it all up!

[The Masque Against the Red Death blog. November 7, 2008.]

Good morning, beautiful readers! You've heard the rumors, and yup, can confirm. Those kills are all yours truly. That Ken doll from Furansu Beat included. Someone out there is bound to understand... isn't that right, sweetie?

If you want the measure of NHN's continued circle round the toilet hole, note that their main response to forty of their supposed enemies meeting their fiery reward has been to go BAAWWW about the air pollution in Tokyo this morning.

Which brings me to Montag. Oh, Montag, you treacherous shitheel, you. I hope he really hurt you, when he found out I wasn't coming to the party. On second thought, maybe that little spat is better off as pure, bloodless kabuki. I've been boning up on Foxe's Book of Martyrs, just for our reunion, and a virgin field widens the possibilities.

Oh, but I forget I haven't let you in the loop, my lovelies. Yesterday morning? Turns out Montag actively conspired with Kira against me. See, a little bird told me: Kira's personally embedded with the network.

In short? Anyone who opposes Kira and thinks Bigwimp's scrawny little puppet body will save them is a drooling moron and ripe for another uptick in the air pollution index.

Slim! Call me!

---

Only the frosting on the cake was lacking. To wit: Guest038. Wherever he was, he sure wasn't in any position to read 'em and weep. Never mind crawl.

On the other hand... if Montag hasn't got everyone's short hairs in a vise by now, Lady Phantasme had a pretty educated guess as to where Guest038 would be...

@certifiedapplelover, she said softly.

What would you say to a cell phone?

[certifiedapplelover]

His grin stretched slowly. After seeing the absolute disaster from Lady's post online, and it spreading like wildfire.. oh, so bliss. If only he could have the same feeling humans do in the thrill of it all. Of course, he feels the thrill, just.. on a different level from the rest.

I wouldn't mind. what's in it for me?

He wouldn't budge as easily.. unless. Lady may try with her dreamy appearance, but not today!

[lady-phantasme]

Uhh. Cheap thrills? That's your button, isn't it...?

Okay, maybe she should have fully acknowledged those apple symptoms for what they were.

...Venus apple. Buttery texture, bit of a tropical blend. Ready when you get back.

She holds out a burner. So, remember that place where I shot Higuchi in the brainpan? Go to the fifth floor. Knock on the windows. I'll call this phone now, just keep it running and on speaker.

[certifiedapplelover]

On it. Hyuk..

You didn't even have to elaborate any further. He was already up and ready before you knew it. Now, with Guest038's reaction to a floating phone.. that sounds more than fun.

And with that, he was gone.

. . .

Time passed by, and a floating phone was definitely a weird sight for some who were unfortunate to see it. He did his best to remain out of the public eye. Soon enough, he was there, the building..

Ryuk always thought Higuchi was a funny guy. And, also funny looking, too.

With Lady nearby so he could be able to stay in her radar enough to go on his own, he held the phone as tightly as he could. She watched him glide in the air, and finally; to the windows.

You sure this is it?

He spoke over the phone for confirmation. He swore he heard her sigh in annoyance.

[lady-phantasme]

Just five rooms, if you're not lost. That's ten security windows. Good. Not lost. Just.. fly around and bang till we get it.

She follows up every rap of your knuckles with delirious catcalls.

Yoo-hoo! Guest038! Want to guess why the air smells so smoky this fine morning~?

( @peace-01 )

[peace-01]

Nobu stared at the now-dark phone screen for a moment. Sure, he could relay the information directly, but any call or message would be scrutinized too closely. He could say, "Everything's going according to plan," or "It's over," and all those words would come back to haunt him. Maybe not the rhetoric itself, but who the message was sent to. Everything was important. He lacked the logic to put it all together correctly, and Kira hadn't given him any guidance. Well, let him just...

He froze upon seeing Ryuk. Nobu's expression barely changed, but upon closer inspection, his skin was noticeable in a couple of places, creasing into new wrinkles. He had seen Ryuk, that was certain, but he was also seeing him for the first time. And that distracted him from everything around him.

Fine morning...