[Oh. Shit. Mello's expression isn't hidden; why should it be? This would be a surprise to anyone. This place really fucked N, didn't it? If Mello were one to feel pity, he would feel sorry for his rival. Really. But he's not, so he doesn't.]

[The following revelation has M holding his breath. L, he understands (If that really is L; Mello still has his suspicions.) But Kira. Fucking Kira? The only thing N has going for him in that department is that Mello trusts him enough that he suspects an ulterior motive. Know thy enemy. Keep them closer. He responds to neither claim; why should he? Near knows him enough (he thinks) to know his possible opinion on the matter.]

[Change the subject while keeping in line with the conversation, then.]

I'm not stupid, idiot.

[Will they always be children with each other.]

I've already spoken with Kira. A girl — she claims to know me — has already outed me as "M."

I told Yagami my name is Malakai Antonov. I don't know if he believes it, but I'll go by it for now. Covers the "M." I assume you'll hold on to that, as well.

[Really, what is an alias to him? Kira has already done his damage. But he'll use it, because that's what he does.]

Your... form. [Because he's in Inquisitor at heart.] Does it hurt?