[Dismissing Mello does feel cruel, but it also feels necessary. L can't chum the waters for a repeat of last time; it would almost be better if they were enemies, because he is assured of his own strength and his own ruthlessness. Near cares for Mello, in his way, but L believes he'd be understanding if L needed to assert dominance, put the other in his place, teach a lesson of pain in order to once and for all to demand the deference of the younger man.

Because, while Mello has claimed to revere and respect L, his actions have told the opposite story. Merely by nature of being a human being, with more than the typical flaws and frailties plaguing him, L has caught Mello's building frustration and contempt before.]

There's one regard in which we are not on even ground.

[More than that, certainly, but L chooses to focus on the one that is relevant.]

I've had this conversation before. Knowing you, already, as well as that conversation's outcome... potential for change is uncertain.

[There have been changes, of course. Near's age and perspective; Light Yagami's presence and status as L's Bonded. The fact that no matter the degree of Mello's determination or desire, L can't take on more Bonds, and is unwilling to relinquish any of his current ones.]