L winced slightly at the sudden jerk; it was always very strange, the way the metal pulled against the place where it became comparatively fragile flesh and bone. But he'd gotten used to his Weapon form enough to know his limits, and he was well within his ability to restrain Mello. His successor wasn't weak, but L's advantages were in height and in leverage. While Mello probably could have lifted him easily, if he'd been willing or even unconscious, L was actively working to keep him from getting to his feet, holding him down, using his legs as well as his arms. The whole process was strenuous and tiring, but Near was aiding by keeping that attack going strong, Sollux was helping by wielding him. He could maintain this for... well, hopefully as long as it needed to be maintained.

Unfortunately, it meant leaving Mello and himself vulnerable to attacks from others in the Kishin Chamber.

A shrill laugh sounded just over L's shoulder. Someone had left the main battle... he couldn't tell whether it was a witch or not, but she certainly wasn't going to do anything nice to them, with that curved blade.

His options were scarce and appalling. If he and Mello died here, Near could still escape. He drew what he fully expected to be his last breath.