Warning: The days that posts are released on the forum do not always follow the order of the characters' current actions (I try to spread them between the various scenes). Hope you don't get too confused.

Chapter 6

Of Plans and Manipulations

January 9th 1998

"We're home!"

"Welcome back," answered his mother as she left the kitchen and walked up to them. She was slowly drying her hands on her apron. "Did you have a nice day at school?"

"Uh huh!" Sayu answered enthusiastically, bobbing her head at every few words. "We told each other what we did over the holidays and then we drew pictures of it. It was fun!" She scrunched her nose. "But then, we reviewed the stuff we've learned. I don't think I would have done well at all if nii-san hadn't already looked over it with me…"

Raito fondly watched over his sister's antics. "And it's a good thing I reminded you of your homework or who knows how you'd have done! Don't forget it next time, 'kay?"

He finished by patting her on the head. She immediately slapped his hand away. "Nii-san!" She cried out, quickly twisting around to properly glare at him.

Her effort was wasted however. Her brother had already left her side and started going upstairs. He paused midway in his climb. "Mom," he said after a short moment, "I'll be working in my room so don't disturb me, alright?"

"You have homework already!" Came Sayu's gloating voice.

"Shh…"

"It's fine. I'll bring cookies when they're done."

"You're making cookies! Can I help? Can I?"

Jumping up and down excitedly, his sister led his mother back into the kitchen. Without sparing the scene a second glance, Raito rapidly mounted the last few steps and entered his room. He immediately locked the door behind him.

After all, there was no way his parents would ever approve of his newest hobby.

Despite his pleas, his father had refused all his requests. He had refused to let him help out with his cases. He had insisted that Raito was far too young to be exposed to the world's cruelties. Such an irrational excuse… He hated how patronizing it sounded.

Really, he had expected better of his father – the police chief knew all about his achievements and how grown-up and intelligent his son was. The preteen huffed, dropping his schoolbag on the floor next to his desk. He should have known better.

Sometimes, adults simply exasperated him. His parents were no exception to the rule.

Could they not see that Raito was far more mature than the kids his age? He knew the world was rotten – why else would his father have a job? – and he wanted to do his part. He wanted to help.

If you examined the situation logically, there was no reason to rebuff his offer. He was an asset, not some snot-nosed ignorant little brat with far too great of an ego. He was smart for his age, and a good deal smarter than most adults – if not all. It was quite sad really, but Raito could not think of a single one who could match his intellect. Thus, it was arrogant of their part to believe otherwise – that they could do without him – and it showed how little they knew.

There was no way a mere refusal would stop him. In fact, it only served to spur him on.

Raito smirked, comfortably installing himself before his computer.

It served them right for underestimating him, his resourcefulness, his determination, and especially his infinite boredom.

Despite his parents' beliefs, his enriched classes did nothing for him. They were all far too easy. He only deigned to keep them to keep his parents happy and because they served as a nice cover-up. Enduring the establishment's false advertisement and its condescending pretentious teachers was a small price to pay when it kept suspicion away from his real pursuit.

Two weeks ago, overcome by boredom, he had decided to hack into his father's computer. Raito had rapidly been dismayed by how easy it was. That the NPA had such feeble security was quite pathetic actually, but he paid it little thought, rapidly distracted by the treasures he had uncovered.

There were so many cases waiting to be solved in the NPA, but his father's were the ones that deserved his immediate attention. After all, undermining the yakuza, an entire organisation of criminals, was far more interesting and challenging than simply fighting individual crooks.

That he still desired to help his father – despite his rebuttal – was a given.

It took very little time for Raito to gain access to all their information and find out how ineffectual their department actually was. They lacked order and basic methodology. Raito was certain this was why they were unable to uncover the yakuza's latest drug rings though the NPA blamed their failure on the loss of their previous informant.

Pathetic! Could they not solve it without one?

Barely sparing the department a disdainful thought, Raito had immediately devoted all his attention into the investigation. It didn't take him long to become hooked. To pit his mind against an entire organisation was so energizing, so refreshing. It was different than reading books or solving textbook problems. It was a real life situation. He had to use all his resources – though limited – and brains in order to win.

Hacking into the NPA or any other computer may be simple, but knowing where to invest his energy was an entirely different matter. Those parasites' operations spanned over such vast expanses after all.

But the preteen had managed. With the little clues the Organised Crime Department had managed to collect and his own deductive abilities, he had succeeded in triangulating the yakuza's trafficking network. He had uncovered the location of one of their cache of methamphetamine: a small seemingly abandoned warehouse commonly known as Yellow Box.

Sending the tip had been easy. He had gone off to print out his message at a public library. There was no need for excessive measures as he was quite certain the police would refrain from seeking him out. They did not want to alert the yakuza of yet another leak after all. Still, as a precaution, he had erased his fingerprints from both the paper and the envelope. His conviction did not necessary mean he had to be sloppy.

This first experience had not been enough to satisfy Raito however. He had never felt as invigorated and he had absolutely no desire to relinquish the feeling. Nor did he wish to sink back into his previous level of apathy. Thus, after happily noting that his father had followed his advice, Raito had kept creeping back into the NPA's mainframe seeking out more clues, more caches of drugs… more challenges. From extortion schemes to protection rackets, he wanted to uncover them all.

This first try had shown him how stimulating thwarting the bad guys was. It had shown him his potential.

And most importantly, it had shown him how much the NPA needed him – despite what his father had affirmed. They were no match for him, neither the police officers nor those simple thugs.

As his fingers flew over the keyboard, his young form eagerly leaned closer to the screen. There was a carefree smile on his face.

It was simply such a shame that a powerful organisation like the Black Dragon had been bested by an eleven, almost twelve-year-old.

Shows how much they know…

This it happens in affairs of state, for when the evils that arise have been foreseen (which it is only given to a wise man to see), they can be quickly redressed, but when, through not having been foreseen, they have been permitted to grow in a way that every one can see them, there is no longer a remedy. Therefore, the Romans, foreseeing troubles, dealt with them at once, and, even to avoid a war, would not let them come to a head, for they knew that war is not to be avoided, but is only to be put off to the advantage of others…

December 11th 2003

OUR LORD KIRA FORUMS - JUSTICE - SINNERS WAITING EXECUTION

Yesterday, 6:35 PM - HITOMI2003: Kira, my boss is a lying cheat. Her name is Machida. Please kill her. I'd be eternally grateful…

Yesterday, 11:43 PM - ANTI-KIRA: Kira-kun. I believe you should make sure to add your own name to this growing list. If criminals who have evaded the system do not escape your peculiar brand of justice, I do not believe you should either.

And while you're at it, add 'SHADOW-PETAL', 'NUMBER-ONE-FOLLOWER', 'KIRANATIC', 'HITOMI2003' and all the others.

Condoning murder shouldn't be allowed either.

Thank you for understanding and I await the news of your death with impatience.

Yesterday, 11:47 PM - BLACK-PROPHET: What the heck are you talking about? How can you simply ask for someone's death like that?

And especially mock Kira's noble sacrifice! He is nothing like those murdering criminals!

Yesterday, 11:51 PM - HITOMI2003: Why are you against me? I did nothing wrong!

Machida-san's the one who blamed all the company's mishaps on me! It's not my fault we lost a client today. Why would you wish the death of people you don't even know!

I hate you. I HATE YOU!

Yesterday, 11:58 PM - BLACK-CAT13: Uh… what is it with all you anti-kiras appearing all at once?

Asking for all those people's deaths like that, aren't you going a bit far? Though I can kinda understand where KIRIN is going at, you, on the other hand, are just nuts.

Today, 12:00 AM - ANTI-KIRA: confused look Isn't this what you are all doing? Asking for sinners and murderers – people you do not know – to die?

Kira is killing. He is a serial killer. He deserves to die.

Isn't that right Kira-kun?

Today, 12:03 AM - DEATH'S-MESSENGER (moderator): Why must all you sinners come and disrupt Kira-sama's sacred grounds? How dare you and KIRIN actually corrupt our system? I demand that you undo whatever you've done to our server and leave this forum at once!

It is a complete disgrace to see your filthy messages still polluting our threads.

This is your last warning.

Kira-sama would not be as merciful.

…

Today, 11:13 PM - KIRIN: It is somewhat strange for me to see another insane voice of reason crusading amongst these fanatics. A voice of reason or antagonism?

ANTI-KIRA, your name quite clearly states your intentions. However, do you truly believe in what you say or are you only here for the thrill of provoking them?

If so, I hold nothing but contempt for you and your imitations. Critical thinking does not equal to opposing the majority.

Today, 11:16 PM - ANTI-KIRA: KIRIN-kun is quite arrogant.

December 12th 2003

Raito sat in silence at the back of Yamamoto-san's car as the elder man drove them back towards the estate. All the bosses of Black Dragon's various subgroups in Japan would convene there in about an hour. The last time such a large scale assembly had been convoked was in the months preceding the implantation of the Botaiho – the countermeasures the NPA has established to fight organised crime – in 1992.

After all, intergang conflicts have remained quite mild this last decade. The yakuza had no wish to overly antagonize the police.

But now, peaceful resolution was out of the question and with the approaching war, the small-time dispute was no longer an internal affair to be handled by the upper echelon of the organisation.

What was to take place was not a simple meeting between the komon – Takamiya-sama's advisors. It was not one of their monthly gatherings in their downtown headquarters.

It was a war council – one without their leader.

And there lay their greatest problem and weakness.

Takamiya-sama's stroke could not have occurred at a worst time. His son's reckless actions have fractured the group and caused dissent amongst them all. He had even brought the Tsuchinoko Alliance at their doors.

Retribution would be demanded for the murder of Viper's second-in-command.

However, with their oyabun currently recovering in a private hospital in Hokkaido, they had no authority to act. Takamiya-sama was in no condition to coordinate his people or curb his unruly offspring.

War was at their door and their organisation was at the brink of collapsing. Raito may not have seen it, but he could imagine it. Whispers of succession would carry out throughout the underworld and greedy ambitious fools would want to take advantage of the oyabun's current indisposition.

Even now, he knew that Manabe-san, Tsuchinoko's fourth generation boss, would soon be moving in, in the hopes of taking over their organisation.

Some of their own might allow it, wishing to side with the more powerful group in order to gain their oyabun's favour.

It was not a situation Raito would ever allow.

Not when he has worked so long and hard to –

Closing his eyes, the yakuza sank deeply into his thoughts, working out plans and counter-plans. Strategies were spun and discarded as quickly as they came; his thoughts whirling around in a whirlpool.

The situation was critical but somehow –

– he will work it to his advantage.

Failure was not an option.

December 12th 2003

L had to admit that he was quite amused by this 'Kirin'. Though arrogant and a bit full of yourself – especially when addressing Kira's followers –, the mysterious user had somehow managed to stir something inside the reclusive genius. Perhaps his competitive side.

It was not often he met someone of his intellectual level and particularly not of a similar temperament to his own. Though his initial posts have been a mix of sarcasm and depth, when pushed and prodded hard enough, Kirin turned out to be quite introspective and at times, juvenile.

It seemed he didn't like L's annoying habit of overanalysing some of his statements and would retaliate in turn – thus turning the discussion into a repartee of philosophical speculations and childish arguments.

Throughout it all, the level of insight he showed never left. It was as though he was searching for an answer and using Anti-Kira as his sounding board.

L had never been so fascinated by another's thought processes. It was such a shame that Kirin seemed only to be available at night, near midnight. Though attacking the idiotic sycophants populating the forum was a somewhat worthy distraction, it never managed to stimulate him as much as his banters with Kirin. He preferred to leave them watching on as annoying, but necessary bystanders, completely dumfounded by the intricacies of Anti-Kira and Kirin's word games and debates.

It was the challenge he craved, the one he shared with Kirin as they tried to surpass each other, all the while steamrolling over the mass murderer's scores of toadies.

But even then, in midst of their most heated debates on political and social issues – there was only so much about Kira they can discuss – Kirin always managed to keep a facet of himself apart. He remained remarkably evasive on certain topics, unwilling to engage himself completely. It was as though he was simply content to constantly act as the devil's advocate.

Though annoying, it didn't really matter to L in the end. Whether the man was sprouting his own opinion or not, the challenge his intellect presented was enough for the insomniac for now. After all, he had found a worthy opponent after Kira had failed so dismally in the task – due to his stubborn prevailing silence.

Now, if only he was available during the day too. At times like these, the world class detective was quite annoyed by how workaholic the Japanese all were. He was one himself and it really wasn't his place to criticize others, but he was L and he was allowed to do so.

In addition, he had never been so bored before thanks to his multiple ongoing cases. Kira however had the indecency to demand all his attention while unwilling to provide him with any decent clues on his whereabouts.

Though he could work on something else under one of his numerous aliases, L knew he could not afford the distraction – the forum was another matter altogether.

He sighed.

His current boredom thus explained his present task: tracking down Kirin. L was quite proficient as a hacker and he had decided to pit his skills against his unknown opponent a few hours ago.

Up to date, he was failing miserably. The detective bit into his thumb, trying to decide his next plan of action. Kirin hadn't left his IP address of course. After all, he had prevented the moderator from deleting his posts and disabling his account. To be able to successfully subvert a forum's server would require skills. Kirin wouldn't have made such an elementary mistake.

Yet, L had expected to find a trace of some kind, a forgotten residue of his actions. But there was nothing… nothing.

"L," came Watari's voice, "the meeting's starting."

The world-class investigator sighed once more and opened a new window. He would work on figuring Kirin out later. After all, his unknown rival wasn't exactly doing anything illegal and there was no reason – nor rush – for the detective to invade his privacy yet.

Easing his legs into the lotus position, he watched the current proceedings. The atmosphere was quite tense in the department. According to Watari, that was due to the problems the Organized Crime Department was currently encountering. The yakuza were once again stirring up.

L paid no attention to the matter. He did not care about crime syndicates' internal conflicts. These groups only came to his attention if the law enforcement was unable to contain their operations and if those very operations arouse his interest.

It did not happen that often. He preferred fighting individual crafty murderers – not bureaucratic villains with far too much influence and money.

Still, if ever Kira decided to take an uncanny interest in that brand of criminals – more than he was now (there was only a total of six mafia members killed up to date, which was a pretty reasonable number) – then L may start to involve himself.

But he doubted it.

To Kira, murderers were murderers, all placed upon the same level. Rapists were the only exception.

December 12th 2003

OUR LORD KIRA FORUMS - JUSTICE - SINNERS WAITING EXECUTION

Today, 3:07 AM - KIRIN: You are a fool for regarding L's actions so highly. He may brilliant, his plan a work of genius, but he is too reckless and childish. In no way is he our 'only recourse' against Kira.

Today, 3:08 AM - ANTI-KIRA: Is KIRIN-kun insinuating he would have done better?

Today, 3:12 AM - KIRIN: Where ever did you get such a ridiculous idea? No, I do not think I will be able to compete with L. However, we do not need a detective hiding in the shadows to fight off Kira. We do not need either L or Kira dictating our morals for us, for that is what L has done.

He has forced the public to choose a side, for Justice or 'Justice'. By throwing out a challenge to Kira on national television, the world has suddenly been divided into two – or three, if you count those without an opinion whatsoever. Throughout this division, people have forgotten to think for themselves and analyse the situation in all its intricacies, in all its hypocrisies.

Today, 3:14 AM - ANTI-KIRA: KIRIN-kun is quite an idealistic for believing the public would be able to decide what is 'right' and 'wrong'. If you have forgotten, there is a reason law enforcement exists and it is not there to simply stand on the side and let Kira run loose.

Today, 3:15 AM – KIRIN: You are deliberately trying to misunderstand me! You know very well I do not condone Kira's actions. I am not about to undermine the legal system and ask the public to make all the decisions themselves.

What I am questioning is the hypocrisy both parties showed, without anyone thinking anymore about it. That many of us are rooting for L to win, all the while ignoring the costs of his 'supposed victory,' is almost as bad as what Kira's followers are doing.

There is no black and white, only shades of grey.

Today, 3:18 AM - ANTI-KIRA: It seems you have thought about this matter in details. What do you truly find so reprehensible about L's actions? Though a criminal was sacrificed, the cause was just, especially since Lind L. Taylor was already on death row.

His death was regrettable but the gains more than make up for it.

Today, 3:19 AM - KIRIN: 'Necessary evils', right?

But is that not Kira's own policy? Is his 'eliminating the scum of this world' not a necessary evil too? And always, the evil lies within criminals. They are always the lives sacrificed for justice's cause because of their past infractions.

You know, looking at it, it really does seem as though their lives are expendable. They are a drain to our society and a burden to our prisons. Why not eliminate them all? Why not make use of them.

After all, all lives are not equal.

This is the impression Kira projected and L reinforced. He sacrificed another to save his own hide. Though understandable, it is not worthy of praise.

December 12th 2003

Yamamoto Osamu slid the shoji door opened, stepping slightly to the left so that Raito may enter at his side. Like a tidal wave, all eyes were drawn up towards his quiet companion as the room's occupants started whispering among themselves. The komon frowned but did not voice his disapproval. There were many rumours flying around about Takamiya-sama and his young protégé. Whether they were true or not was none of his business.

Their relationship in no way had any impact on the syndicate's day-to-day running.

In fact, he could not help but admire the oyabun's foresight when he had decided to adopt the then twelve-year-old. They had all attributed his strange decision to the caprices of aging. For the following years, words of succession had abounded but never a move was made.

During that period, despite a few hot head's mutinous thoughts, Takamiya-sama's grip on the group had not lessened. In fact, it had tightened in certain areas as he had taken a closer interest in some of their smaller operations to the point of completely reordering them.

It hadn't been until two years ago, when their leader had presented the teenager to his closest advisers that Osamu realised the cause of the change. He had been training the boy and the effort had not been wasted.

Raito-san was a prodigy to the truest sense of the word. He had had much involvement with their recent prosperity, easily helping them overcome the irritation the police presented at times.

He was their greatest asset, their secret weapon and it was now time to take him out of the shadows.

"Ah. Yamamoto-san, young master," greeted Morinaga-san, the group's second-in-command, from his position on the zabuton.

Osamu nodded in return and lowered himself onto the square cushion. Raito-san regally did the same on the wakagashira's right.

There were eighteen of them here today. The washitsu's sliding walls have been rearranged to better accommodate them all. To the right were six fusuma. A black dragon that spanned the entire room's length had been painted over its brown surface. In front of each opaque vertical rectangle sat a first level executive. Six of their contemporaries were currently facing them. Shoji limited their side of the room.

With the three who sat opposite to them on the other side of the room, they made eighteen men. Quite a few of the younger ones looked somewhat belligerent, sitting cross-legged on the zabuton and shooting their seniors' looks of disdain.

Of the Black Dragon's fourteen subgroups in Japan, only thirteen of its leaders were here. They have all rushed back to Tokyo upon receiving word of Takamiya-sama's collapse. The only one missing was comprised of the three gangs under Katsuo-san's direct command. As for their eight branches abroad, news and instructions would be relayed to them later.

As it was, the situation was precariously fragile. None of these men have come for altruistic reasons. They were all hoping to snatch more power – not fight off the newest threat. Personal gains and ambitions blinded them from the needs of the syndicate. Believing the Black Dragon's defeat inevitable, they would rather side with the enemy in the hopes of improving their present situation.

The temptations were all too great with their oyabun currently indisposed.

The matter was only made worse by Katsuo-san's idiotic exploits. What did it convey to one's followers when the leader was unable to control his own offspring?

Thus, by bringing Raito-san here, Osamu hoped to curb the situation. Though none of the subgroups' bosses – except for a rare few – knew their leader's adoptive son, he was confident that the teenager was cunning and manipulative enough to see them through the crisis.

It was a very risky gamble, but he trusted Raito-san's abilities. All of Takamiya-sama's advisors have agreed with him on that regard.

Morinaga-sama finally spoke up. "Good, we are all here. We –"

Fujita-san cut him off. "Is it true that Viper has declared war on us?"

The under-boss scowled but responded all the same. "Yes, it is. The Tsuchinoko Alliance would not leave it at that however. Manabe-san will be here tomorrow."

Murmurs travelled through the room as their suspicions were confirmed.

"And what do you propose we do about it?"

"We will see, but I do not believe we should give in –"

"Give in! There is no choice but to give in!" cried Hojo-san from his seat in the far left corner.

"Morinaga-san, please listen to reason. Do you believe our group stands a chance against Tsuchinoko's ten thousand strong?"

"There is no choice but to bow our head and offer whatever recompense they demand," bitterly concluded Raizo-san.

"But that would be shameful. It wasn't my – I mean our – fault that –"

"– only the oyabun had kept a tight reign on his useless brat!" Came the thunderous voice from his left.

"Fujita-san!"

"But you must admit that it's true." He spat out. His fierce eyes turned towards their youngest member. "And what is his second whelp doing here? Shouldn't he be off in – "

"Fujita-san," Raito-san cut him off sharply, his cold tone freezing whatever thoughts the dissenter had from leaving the tip of his tongue. "Although I may understand your frustration and anger, you need not take it out on Takamiya-sama. After all, are you yourself capable of keeping an eye on all your subordinates?"

The forty-three-year-old scoffed. "Of course I am. My men's loyalty is unquestionable."

"Then I guess your second-in-command running off with 3 million yen was a gift from your part."

Fujita-san reddened in anger at having his shame so publicly exposed but he did not say another word.

The youth's irate amber glare then turned towards the rest of the room, stopping any further protest from their part. Osamu watched on smugly, quite content with the ease the young heir controlled a roomful of cantankerous yakuza bosses.

"And you. I see you arguing about how we should capitulate before Tsuchinoko comes down at us, but are we all so weak that we must bow down at the first sign of danger?"

"Then what do you propose we do! There is no way our thousand men can ever match up to the Kobe syndicate's ten thousand. We would be massacred." Raizo-san sighed and stared down at the ground. The twisted snarl his lips took belied his apparent willing submission. "I would rather keep whatever we have now then lose it all in a fool's gamble. You know nothing about yakuza wars."

"I might not have experienced them but do not think me so ignorant that I would be unaware of its costs. But there is a difference between fighting and throwing away your lives. These last few decades, you have together built up the Black Dragon with Takamiya-sama. Are you so cowardly and weak that you would give it all up at the first sign of 'struggle'?"

Fujita-san immediately latched onto his words. "Well, since it is Takamiya-sama's son fault, why not leave his group to the wolves as a sign of apology. Perhaps Tsuchinoko would be satisfied with the perpetrators."

Murmurs of agreements followed.

Before they had gotten too far however, Raito-san's voice cut in, immediately destroying whatever illusions those cravens might bear. "And do you really think Manabe-san would stop there? With Takamiya-sama recovering in Hokkaido, our position has never been as fragile. He would take advantage of the slight my brother delivered to his in order to swoop up our organisation. Do you think he would be content with an office in Kabukicho when he now has the excuse to realise his ambition and establish a strong foothold in Kanto?"

"Then what do you propose?" Ikuko-san snidely asked.

They were the words Raito-san had been waiting for because immediately after they were spoken, the brunet's eyes took a sly gleam. "We give him Jun's head. We give him the killer of Viper's second-in-command."

"That is your brilliant plan?" Fujita-san jeered. "To hand over one man when, as you've said earlier, an entire subgroup would not do! There is no way Manabe-san would be satisfied with that!"

The young master smiled knowingly. "Exactly. He would not be let us go freely with so little retribution. But giving in to his demands is not my goal. I only want a ceasefire. A temporary truce until further negotiations could be reached. After all, Takamiya-sama is in Hokkaido and in no condition to bow down to Manabe-san's whims. It is quite reasonable for us to ask them to postpone the talks until our oyabun has recovered."

"And you think Tsuchinoko would agree to that?"

"Of course. He would have more time to organise his men for war with this reprieve. A small delay is only to his benefit."

Morinaga-san finally spoke up, adding his doubts to such a plan. "And you still think we would have the advantage in such a fight?"

Raito looked straight into the wakagashira's eyes for a long moment before finally answering. "Yes. We would also use that time to prepare. But that is not all; it would give Takamiya-sama time to come up with something if ever he decides that open war is too risky.

"And then, we must not forget the other Kanto syndicates. For too long now has Tsuchinoko been expanding its reaches all over Japan. It has become the largest organisation in the country. However, our alliance with the other groups has always managed to keep the Kobe based syndicate away from the capital, with Viper as their only office here. They would seek to use this occasion to move in, but do you really believe the other groups would simply let it happen?"

"Are you sure they would help us when it was Katsuo-sama's actions that have brought war upon us?"

"Maybe not, but it is in their interest to prevent Tsuchinoko's further expansion. With the delay, we would have the chance to negotiate an alliance with our friends and neighbours."

"Far too risky." Fujita-san declared, crossing his arms and daring any other to contradict him.

"Fujita-san is right. There are too many variables here. And do you really believe we'd manage to find and kill Jun before tomorrow's meeting? Knowing him, he's probably hid himself deep underground by now, unwilling to show his head."

"Leave that to me. If you agree with my plan, I'll see to it that we have Manabe-san appeased for the next few weeks at least. If need be, I will even empty my funds to buy us that extra time. After all, what would it cost you?" Takamiya-sama's adoptive son smiled sardonically. "If you still want to bow down to Tsuchinoko after that lapse of time, then please feel free to do so.

"This is what I am offering you: time for you to decide on your course of action." Slowly Raito-san stood up and looked over each of the room's occupant. His strong voice resounded through the room. "When suddenly faced with superior strength, it is easy to give in and roll over. It is easy but regrettable." His clear eyes stared at each in turn. There was a breathtaking intensity hidden in their depths. "Think clearly on what you want – scraps from Kobe or the chance of preserving your dignity and your life.

"I, for one, am no coward. I have no wish to leave myself at another's mercy, to be allowed to live. I might be young but I can see clearly. I will not give up without a fight.

"If you give me that time, I promise I will use it to our advantage and with Takamiya-sama's return, we will prevail!"

Watching him go through his speech, Osamu was certain he had never seen Raito-san look so wise and powerful. His posture conveyed nothing but contempt for the weak-willed fools that were in attendance. He had already assessed them and found them lacking. And yet… he had not given up on them, on any of them. Standing there before them, he was commanding his listeners to think for themselves, for their future, for the preservation of their honour. None from his audience could tear his eyes away.

Despite his youth, he towered over them, like a king over his subjects or a god over his followers. Osamu saw many of the younger members staring at Takamiya-sama's protégé in shock.

"I leave you to your decision." Raito-san whispered out softly. Everyone heard his words.

Then, after executing one hasty, though elegant, bow, he turned away and regally swept out of the room. His steps barely made a sound on the tatami mats.

A heavy silence prevailed. After a few moments, as though undergoing an awakening, slowly, one by one, the wheels in the yakuza's mind started turning as it finally processed the youth's words.

Osamu shared a knowing smile with Morinaga-san.

Yes, Raito-san had done well…

Better than they had expected in fact, due to the short notice. And yet… and yet, he had managed to come up with a plan to temporarily drive off the syndicate from Kobe and even unite the leaders of their thirteen subgroups – into rethinking their decision to surrender at the very least.

Now it is our turn.

With some careful prodding from their part, they would slowly direct opinions to Raito-san's favour.

They will prevail.

December 12th 2003

OUR LORD KIRA FORUMS - JUSTICE - SINNERS WAITING EXECUTION

Today, 4:15 AM - KIRIN: But do you know what I find so ironic about L and Kira's confrontation on television?

Today, 4:17 AM - ANTI-KIRA: I cannot guess what KIRIN-kun would find amusing about the event. I thought you saw the entire affair as a huge blunder from L's part.

Today, 4:18 AM - KIRIN: Oh shush. You aren't still bitter about that are you? But yes, it is L's blunder that I find ironic. It is quite obvious that Kira kills at set intervals in order to gain the public's attention. However, it was L who truly contributed to his notoriety.

After all, it was only in sites in Japan that 'Kira' was referred to as 'Kira'. Some from the western world saw him as 'Nemesis', and every region had its own appellation for the killer.

It was only due to L that 'Kira's' name – probably chosen in consideration to his location – became official.

And then… it was L who confirmed Kira's existence to the public. With them now aware of a mass murderer punishing criminals, his rule has been established. They may not remain in blissful ignorance anymore. The mysterious deaths can no longer be ignored and thus, L has helped Kira terrify the masses into submission.

Ironic, no?

Today, 4:25 AM - ANTI-KIRA: Yes, I guess you do have a point. However, I find KIRIN-kun's constant consideration for others and the impact both parties' actions have on them a bit excessive.

I think I finally have KIRIN-kun figured out. Your lectures are simply an attempt from your part to hide your lack of an opinion.

Today, 4:29 AM – KIRIN: Shut up. This is not about me and you know it. Anyway, I have work tomorrow so I'm heading off to bed.

Today, 4:29 AM – ANTI-KIRA: KIRIN-kun has no stamina.

Today, 4:29 AM – KIRIN: Shut up.

…

Today, 11:06 AM – BLACK-CAT13: I can't believe it. They were at it half the night.

December 12th 2003

As soon as Raito entered his room, he made sure to slide the door shut and lock it.

"Eh heh. So how are you ever gonna keep all your promises Raito?" The shinigami gleefully asked.

Raito slumped down on his leather chair. He glared. "You know full well how I'll manage." He hissed out, his tone turning dark. "No need to gloat."

"Hyuk. Hyuk. But you've finally given in! And with a war now, there is no better time to use it! Think of all the chaos you can cause – think of all the enemies you'd eliminate! Sure, purging the world of criminals is noble and all but killing by heart attacks gets boring after a while. With a war, just think of the possibilities!"

Sparing the death god one last incensed glare, Raito turned away from Ryuk and towards his desk. He immediately grabbed his notepad and started jotting down his ideas.

The shinigami loomed over his shoulder, trying to get a better look at what the human was doing. "Planning new deaths now?"

"Shut up." He breathed out between gritted teeth. "This is a one time affair. Don't count on it happening again. You know my vow."

"But it's broken now, so why keep it?"

Raito did not answer.

Matters were quickly complicating. He was certain he'd manage to buy the necessary time. It was to both parties' advantage after all. But to get through the war…

He did not know how he'd succeed. There were only so many factors he could manipulate. It all depended on the others.

The yakuza ran a frustrated hand through his silky strands. It would be so simple, so so simple to simply use the notebook and kill them off.

Make it look like an accident.

But he would never stoop so low. Tsuchinoko's leaders' deaths would serve no purpose. Others – their more ruthless members – would simply fight their way up to take over the largest syndicate in Japan. Overall, it would only throw the underground into turmoil and cause more harm than good.

Even the other crime organisations would not be spared. They were all too selfish and ambitious to not interfere when the Kobe syndicate was so vulnerable.

No. He had to plan his next few steps carefully and without the use of the Death Note.

When he was halfway through the second page, his cell phone suddenly rang.

Frowning at the unknown caller, Raito picked it up. "Takamiya here."

"Ah… Raito-chan." Came the speaker's oily depreciating voice. "Now how is the baby yakuza doing?"

The youth scowled. Etsuko, the director of the Organised Crime Department and his father's successor after he had transferred. He quite hated the man and he was certain the feeling was mutual.

The civil servant was as slippery as an eel in all his dealings. Although he was at the head of the anti-yakuza campaign, he held many 'business relationships' with them as well. As long as they did not involve themselves in civilian affairs, the police officer was quite happy to overlook a good number of their operations. After all, there were many advantages derived from maintaining friendly relations with the underworld. For one thing, they were more inclined to avoid antagonizing the law.

Etsuko thus believed the bribes he accepted were his well-earned due for maintaining public order.

And yet, despite his corruption, he managed to keep all his tracks hidden. There were no tarnishes to any of his records. Raito hated the way his father's replacement so easily mocked all of his predecessor's efforts. It was disgraceful.

"Fine," he responded tersely, "now what do you want?"

"Now, now," Etsuko tsked, "no need to take such a tone with me. I tried calling the higher-ups but they all seem to be in a meeting. Were you left out, baby-chan?"

Raito also despised him for his condescending attitude. But that was a given.

"What do you want?" He repeated his question.

"Well, on to business then." His attitude shifted as the conversation suddenly turned serious. Yet, at the edge of his every sentence, Raito could still make up the contempt the man held for him. "I heard a very disturbing rumour lately. It seems your group has managed to anger Viper and now, Manabe-san is coming to avenge his brother's honour."

They both knew how far that statement was from the truth.

"I do not want a bloodbath on my streets. Find a way to resolve the matter or I'll have my police officers closing down your offices and locking up your people. You know my requirements and you know how much I know about you guys' operations. Be sure to tell the others." He paused for a moment. "Don't disappoint me or daddy dearest may actually die from the next heart attack."

And with that, he hung up.

Raito glared at his phone.

"So Raito, what did the guy say to put you in such a bad mood."

The youth chuckled bitterly. "The police finally decided to do its job and get involved."

But of course, what other recourse do they have when the yakuza's operations may actually harm civilians?

"Huh?" Ryuk cocked his head to a side. "What d'ya mean?"

"It means that when the war breaks up, they'll finally crack down on us."

Which would be extremely inconvenient. The matter was complicated enough as it was and they did not need to fight a war on two fronts. Because of the numerous dealings he had had with them in recent years, Etsuko could easily amass enough evidence to convict most of the higher-ups.

Raito's mouth twisted into a grimace. He hated corrupted officials.

Though the officer's threat was valid, Raito refused to pass on the message. He had had enough trouble convincing the others to fight. They did not need another reason to deter them from it.

Etsuko may try to reveal their leaders' crimes to the world but Raito would not allow the realisation of his threat. They did not need the group to collapse in midst of a war. As for the threat concerning the oyabun, there was no way he would ever be executed by Kira – despite his numerous crimes. Such a situation was almost… laughable.

The ringtone was heard once more. This time, it was Yamamoto informing him that they have decided to go through with his proposal. Raito breathed out a sigh of relief.

"I'll have his possible hideouts pinpointed in about an hour." He told the elder man. "Have a group of men organised by that time."

After hanging up, he took out the piece of the Death Note he had hidden within a dictionary.

'Jun Arata – death by bullet wounds

2003/12/12 Friday Afternoon, Kabukicho

Inconspicuously heads towards his home

Starts running when sees members of Black Dragon

Dies at 5:37 PM'

And then, as he had done so many times before, Raito took out the Zippo lighter Takamiya-sama had once gifted him and burnt the little piece of the Death Note.

But this time, it was different and he could not help but feel a little more of himself fracture as he watched the small rectangular sheet turn to ashes.

December 13th 2003

As Raito sat down on the couch in Viper's office, he easily noticed the dark scowl the elder Manabe brother bore. Inwardly, he smirked.

Good, the rumours were true…

Manabe Ichirou was the bastard child between Tsuchinoko's previous oyabun and one of his many mistresses. Gossip had it that he had been the favoured the son, the more capable one.

And yet… it was the younger brother who now held the mantle of 'oyabun'. Foul play had probably been at work; the ambitious always preferred to install a puppet at their head – not a leader. His suspicions were further confirmed by observing the interactions between the wakagashira and Manabe Akihito. It was all too evident who was subservient to whom.

Good… the two brothers' enmity may be used. It is only such a shame that Ichirou-san has no real power as he had been exiled from the main group. The gang he had formed here in Tokyo, though useful, wouldn't be of any help.

It was strange but the only reason the elder Manabe had been allowed to establish himself in Tokyo was because of the severed relationship between the two siblings. The Kanto syndicates had believed that letting Akihito-san's brother take some ground here would be enough to satisfy the Kobe based syndicate, while the brothers' open hostility would discourage Tsuchinoko's oyabun from making any further move into the region.

How wrong they were! Akihito-san was not one to let his hatred divert him from his ambition, At the first sign of weakness from the Black Dragon's part, he had decided to reclaim his brother's men and thus, the conflict as his.

It was no wonder Viper's leader was so annoyed.

"Ah, Black Dragon. I must present all my condolences for Takamiya-san's condition." Akihito-san said mockingly from his seat. His words were dripping with disdain for their smaller organisation.

After all, most of the larger syndicates viewed those who dealt with drug quite lowly. They were seen as weak – lacking the brain and strength to succeed in other types of income. Takamiya-sama considered them to be fools. After all, he was flourishing in those different shinogi as well.

The Black Dragon's oyabun, for his part, believed that diversity was necessary in order to survive. Thus, he had no compunction in dealing with drugs. If he did not appropriate the business, others would. It was through such policies that he had managed to establish one of the largest drug rings inside the country. And made quite a hefty profit doing so.

"My demands are simple." The oyabun dove straight into the matter. "If you wish to avoid a war you cannot win, you simply have to relinquish one quarter of your territory in Kanto, including the area controlled by Takamiya Katsuo. To prevent further retaliation from either part, we will swear an oath of brotherhood. The terms are similar to any of our other brothers': you need only to pay a monthly tribute of twenty million yen for our continued friendship and protection. It's quite simple really." The thirty-seven-year-old finished off smugly.

"Impossible."

All heads turned towards Raito.

"What do you mean by that?"

Raito ignored the mocking tone and continued. He leaned back on his seat. "As you know, our oyabun is not here currently and we cannot make such a momentous decision without his approval. I ask that you postpone the negotiations until he has recovered."

Akihito-san burst out laughing. "And why should I do that, eh?" He managed inquire between two guffaws.

"Well, I was hoping this little gift would make up for the inconvenience." He gave Kohashi a quick glance.

Barely hiding his own amusement, the bodyguard walked towards the elder Manabe brother and presented him with a cylindrical box that was about a foot in height.

Curious, Ichirou opened the box and blinked. A stream of chuckles followed. "Thank you." He said, giving Raito a nod in return. His eyes both expressed his gratitude and his glee.

Invisible to them, Ryuk too was cackling.

"I hope your second-in-command's killer's head will sufficiently make up for the delay. After all, he is the one who triggered this debacle."

"Entertaining as it is, we cannot forget all the chaos your people have brought to the streets in the preceding weeks."

"No. But in return, I am willing to offer you sixty million yen." Everyone turned to look at him in shock. It was a lot of money to pay for such a simple affair.

It made no difference to Raito however. Over the years, Takamiya-sama had left quite a hefty sum in his bank account and it had done little but collect interest. It was time to put it to good use. "All I ask for is a delay so that Takamiya-sama may be here in person."

When he saw the greedy look in the oyabun's eyes, he knew he had won.

L stared despondently at the computer screen.

No, he had not been able to find Kirin at all and then, to make matters worse, the hacker had refused to indulge him for half the night, claiming exhaustion.

L pouted.

As for his investigation, it had not made any progress. Almost a week has passed and still, Kira refrained from acting. The officers were both relieved and annoyed at that. They had highly disapproved of his plan at first but seeing no issue around it – L would have done as he wished anyway – they had accepted.

And now, there was no result to show for their effort. While they were happy they did not have to 'sacrifice' yet another criminal in the fight against Kira, all the time and energy they had invested into the scheme had been wasted.

Many were wondering about the detective's rumoured proficiencies.

L, for his part, idly wondered how long it would take before their tenuous cooperation fractured. The distrust both parties held for each other was slowly growing. He also wondered if it was due to Kira.

"L, we have identified the 6 AM GMT murder. Ushio Aoi, aged forty-three. He was a highly ranked yakuza who was about to be released in three days. I'm sending you the files."

The private investigator frowned as he read through the criminal's profile. Suspected to be one of Tsuchinoko Alliance's most proficient hitmen, the metropolitan police had finally managed to arrest him on lesser charges two years ago.

The fact that interested L however was that Ushio was not supposed to be released for another year and this little change in scheduling – probably paid for by the syndicate's leader – was not known to the larger public.

And yet, Ushio had been killed.

L bit his thumb, grinning victoriously. Here was the clue he had been waiting for.

His first plan might not have worked but still, Kira had managed to confirm his connection with the police force for him. Why else would he have murdered a criminal who was supposed to languish in jail – and thus stay relatively harmless – for another twelve months?

"Watari, contact the head of the FBI for me."

The agents would have to redirect some of their attention towards the Organised Crime Department. After all, were they not the ones who were so anxious and concerned about the possibility of a yakuza war?

December 14th 2003

Rita Yuzuki stumbled over the worn carpet in the entrance of her dilapidated apartment building as she exhaustedly made her way towards the stairs. Before proceeding any further however, she took off her stilettos. She would not be able to climb her way up wearing such heels.

Her feet were killing her… but not as much as the ache in her heart.

It had been a long night working at the bar. A long night smiling, joking and cheering customers up when all she wished to do was have a breakdown. She did not know how she had survived these last two weeks but somehow, there was no choice. She had to work. She was the only one who could.

Her parents were in no condition to enter the labour market. Already, they were looking after Yumiko, her ten-year-old daughter, for her and that was more than enough. It was more than enough especially since she was in no condition to see her daughter again. Not like she was now.

Not when all she wanted to do was collapse.

The endless stairs were not helping.

Tiredly, her hands gripped the peeling yellowing plaster of the wall for support. Her feet dragged each time she lifted them. They felt like dead weight.

God… she wanted to end it.

Yuzuki stumbled over the last few steps. Exhausted, she did not glance up from the floor as she walked towards her door. A quiet cough stopped her.

She immediately spun around.

There, a tall man in a suit, a tall man in a suit who looked very dangerous. A tall man in a suit that looked very much like those her brother – dead brother, her mind reminded her – used to deal with.

A yakuza.

She paled.

The Yakuza had killed her brother. The Yakuza had killed her son. Her poor, sweet, eight-year-old.

Her innocent little Isamu.

The fear in her eyes must have shown. The rapid beating of her heart must have been heard. Was he going to kill her now? And then her family? And then –

God, whatever did she do to deserve this?

"Rita-san, I have a letter for you from my superior." He pressed the envelope into her hands.

And then, without another word, without hurting her, killing her, doing anything, he walked away. Yuzuki stared at his silent form – disappearing as he went down the staircase – in shock.

She looked back at the envelope in her hand.

It was white. It didn't look dangerous.

But what of its content? A demand, a threat, a –

She shook her head. There was no way to know but to open it. Cautiously, she broke its seal and took out the piece of paper.

And a small cheque. She stared at it, numb.

Five million yen. Five million yen.

Why the heck was there a five million yen cheque inside that envelope?

Holding the cheque with one hand and the letter with the other, her eyes switched back and forth between the two. Finally, her head settled on the latter.

'12th of December 2007

'Rita-san,

'I have no right to write to you. I can understand if you burn this letter as soon as you realise who I am but even then, I feel the need to apologize.

'I –

I killed your son. There, I wrote it down. I killed him. I may not have shot him but my missed shot killed him on the same. The noise of the gunshot startled him enough that he fell down. Tumbled down the stairs. He died. I killed him.

'Just as I killed your brother and his friend. No, for those two deaths, I will not excuse myself. They had been intentional: they have betrayed their superior and must thus face the consequence of their actions. I simply did not expect them to be looking after a child.

'I… I am sorry.

'No, before you misunderstand me, I am not writing to ask for your forgiveness. I do not deserve it. How can you ever forgive me for murdering your son? It may have been an accident but…

'I am repeating myself, aren't I? Forgive me. You do not know how hard it is for me to try and put the event into writing. I had postponed doing so so many times now. Selfish, no? But it must be done. You deserve an explanation, as skewed as it is.

'As for the cheque, dispose of it in whichever way would please you. I do not expect you to take it as a consolation for your son's death. Nothing can make up for it. Especially not blood money.

'No. This is only to help you get started and perhaps move away from the memories of your kin's murders. For a new beginning.

'Invest it in your parents, you daughter. It could help pay for their healthcare and her schooling. But it is your choice. If you cannot accept this sum from your son's murderer, then throw it away, burn it. I would not be offended.

'But I must warn you, tension is rising amongst the yakuza and a war may very well start up. I do not know how it will turn but please be careful.

'You have lost enough to us already.

'I wish you the best of luck.'

And with that, Yuzuki collapsed onto the dirty floor, back pressed against the door to her apartment. Her shoulders shook as silent sobs wracked her frame.

Raito exhaled in relief and collapsed on the back of his chair. The videoconference had gone on without any glitches. The representatives of their various clients have happily gobbled up his secret identity. Various requests and business relations have been established. The FBI had even tried to recruit him.

He had immediately rescinded their offer. It was a shame but the agency simply had to settle for an upgrade on their profiling program – not the programmer.

Still, Raito could not help but be amused by the alias he had finally decided for himself: 'Kirin', the same pseudonym he had used on the Kira forum. There were only so many ways available for him to dissociate himself from the shame of his real life. The program he had made for investigating agencies around the world was one; his experience on the forum was another. There, he was free from his persona as Raito, Kira and even Takamiya-sama's…

He shook his head. There was no need to dwell on such depressing thoughts. Not when his gamble had worked.

He grinned at the shinigami.

"Ryuk, do you know what this means?"

The death god stopped staring at the apple he dangled above his head. "Huh?" He released his hold on the fruit's stem and gobbled it up. "You get more money?"

Slightly exasperated, Raito shook his head. "No, I now have access to all their data regarding all their criminals. I wouldn't have to waste my time hacking into their system anymore." Although a few of the major countries – such as the United States, a few European nations and Japan – already had the program for a little more than a month already, many of their potential clients have been sceptical – that was until they met 'Kirin'.

And then… there was the fact that some criminal organisations would try to acquire the program for themselves, which meant that Raito would be able to watch over their activities as well.

It was stupid, it was overly ambitious of his part but for once, he felt in control. It was refreshing. For once, power did not involve blood and death. It reminded him of the rush he had felt as an innocent child, hacking into his father's computer.

Finally calming down, he checked his cell phone. He had turned it off during the conference. As soon as he saw the call he had missed, he blanched. His previous euphoria instantly vanished.

"Shit."

He immediately called back.

The oyabun picked up after two rings.

"Raito." His voice was furious, bordering dangerous.

The youth looked down at his hands. "Takamiya-sama. I… I'm sorry." He whispered demurely.

"Explain why it took you," a pause, "an hour and a half to respond to my call."

Despite his panic, the lie came easily to his lips. "I was hacking into the police database in order to find out how their investigation on Kira was proceeding. As you know, they have pulled out operatives from different departments in order to deal with the mass murderer. However, with the upcoming yakuza war, the Organised Crime Department, may recall many of its officers." He took a deep breath. "I was trying to find out how many men they would be able to amass against us."

And then, he quickly proceeded to detail the call he had received from Etsuko two days ago and the threat the police chief had made.

He anxiously waited for the oyabun to reply, to see if his lie would pull through. After a pregnant pause, Takamiya-sama finally answered. "Good, you did well." The tension left his shoulder but he did not show any outward sign of his relief. Though he may not see it, there was always the possibility that his adoptive father would hear it. "But next time, do not turn off your cell phone. I do not care if it will distract you from your work. When I call, I expect you to answer immediately."

"Yes sir."

"While you were working on the NPA, I have spoken to Yamamoto-san and Morinaga-san in length. I am quite proud of you and how you managed to postpone the negotiations until the 27th." And it showed in his change of tone. "Although outwardly, the two are in charge, you will direct their efforts in my absence. You have my trust, Raito, do not fail it."

"Of course not…" he hesitated for a moment, "father."

"My sweet Raito." The oyabun breathed out fondly. Raito shuddered. "As for my other son, I heard you have sent Kohashi to hunt him down. There is no need for that anymore. For the threat he has brought down upon our group, Katsuo is hereby expulsed from the Black Dragon. I will write out and send the hamon-jo to our various offices and allies." He sighed. "It is a shame but he is no longer my son… you are my only one now, Raito. Do not fail me."

"Never."

"Good, I will see you soon."

December 16th 2003

Raito collapsed on his desk, gripping his temples in his frustration. There was no choice, there was no choice…

The massive monstrous creature was watching him gleefully. Laughing, cackling, its yellow eyes glinted with amusement.

"Told you Raito!" Ryuk repeated ever few seconds. "What did I say eh? I always knew you would succumb!"

I am so sorry. There was no choice.

Pulling out a pen cartridge, he cautiously poked his drawer's fake bottom up in order to reveal the Death Note's unforgiving black cover.

I am so sorry, but it is the only way.

For his plan mattered above everything else. Even justice, whatever it was.

L – catch me if you can. Send my damned soul to hell.

It is what I deserve after… this.

December 27th 2003

On the 27th of December 2003, 144 policemen and secrets agents around the world died of a heart attack. Each left a letter revealing their crimes and thus… the depth and level of corruption of those who were supposed to uphold the law.

A/N: I'm a bad, bad girl. I was supposed to be studying but instead, I spent the entire day writing this. Gah.

Well, as you can see, there's a lot happening. Everything was pretty much building up to this moment and I can tell you, I really felt like cutting this chapter in half but finally decided against it. Didn't want the planning to drag on more than it needed to. It's the aftermath we want, right?

I used a lot more Japanese terms this time so let us hope that it wasn't too confusing. And the yakuza book finally arrived so more accuracy on their structure here!

And thank you all so much for your reviews! Just look at what they've done to me when I was supposed to be studying! Btw, I find it very amusing that you were all more preoccupied with Takamiya's heart attack (which was just a plot device to keep him out of the way) than the approaching war.

Anyway, I would love to hear what you guys think about this chapter. Baffled? Well, so am I. Kind of.

Okay, see you next time!

PS: According to the poll, it seems you guys all want to condemn Raito to liver problems in later life. Poor guy.

Edited 26/07/08