Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction ❯ Ryou Bakura: Time Master! ❯ The New Monarchy ( Chapter 28 )

DISCLAIMER: I don't own Yu-Gi-Oh, Death Note, or anyone else here. Takahashi owns Yu-Gi-Oh, and he can't believe Ryou actually lost to Mello.

 

“What the hell?” Bakura asked, when he and Ryou finally threw open the doors of the palace, and the large crowd walked out behind them, “Why is Mello the king?” Ryou looked over at him wryly, still holding his sword. There was definitely something different about Ryou, but where Bakura was sure he'd be mad, he seemed happy. Bakura just perked a brow. It made absolutely no sense to him. If he'd been the one battling, he'd have killed Mello on the spot. Why was Ryou being so kind?

 

“I decided he was right,” Ryou replied simply, and looked forward, “I'm not saying I'm not upset, but when I think about it, I'm not sure I could've made Sith happy. She'd have been babysitting me for the rest of my life.” Bakura just stopped dead. That could've been true, considering that Ryou wasn't too good at taking care of himself. But still, the fact that he actually thought Mello, the man who tried to kill him, was far better actually blew the spirit's mind. He ran to keep up with Ryou's quickening pace as they strode through.

 

“I don't believe that bullshit for a second,” he grumbled, stopping Ryou again, “What really happened? Did one of them threaten you?” Ryou looked back at him, wishing Bakura would believe him. He was telling the truth. After hearing about how much Mello truly did care, what was he supposed to do? Keep the two apart? He doubted that'd have happened gracefully, anyway. Mello made it clear he'd wage wars on Ryou if something bad happened. And as much as Ryou wondered how badly it'd go, he had no intention of warring. He knew he'd lose, with or without Sith's aid. Ryou just shrugged.

 

“I'm telling the truth, Bakura. I think Sith should be happy,” the younger man explained, “Look… I never told you this… but the reason Sith even considered me was because Katt told her to. I don't think that's right, even if it means I lose. I think she should've chosen for herself. And she chose Mello.” Bakura glanced back toward the king and queen incredulously. Sith looked regal, her head held high as she passed the gardens of her new kingdom. Her gown flowed around her like a large pool of shimmering water. Mello, who was decked entirely in leather, looked so out of place next to her. But he was brimming with pride. Bakura just frowned, shaking his head. Personally, he wondered how addled Sith's brain was to think Mello was anything like a king.

 

“That's cold,” he stated, “I think she chose wrong.”

 

“That's not our decision to make,” Ryou reminded him sternly, “By the way, I am their knight, so if you don't stop, I'll probably be ordered to kill you. Take your pick, Bakura.” This time, Bakura just stared in complete confusion. Ryou was a knight now! No wonder he looked so happy. That meant he'd still see Sith, who he knew was still the boy's closest friend. Bakura just snorted, smirking as they turned and walked through the large gates, into the city. No one was there to cheer them on, and both the king and queen passed with no incident.

 

“She made you a knight?” the old thief whispered. Now Ryou just smirked, and pointed secretly to Mello.

 

“It was his idea,” he replied, “He said I'm just stupid enough for the job. I figured it would be an interesting career, so I accepted. Of course, I'm insulted with him, but I guess in his mind, what I did and how I acted was stupid.” Bakura didn't want to agree, because he understood the pressure Ryou was under. The poor boy lost his would-be wife, and it was Mello's fault to begin with. Ishtar, who had come up right behind them and overheard, just snorted, walking and pushing past them, toward Malik and Katt, who were just behind the king and queen.

 

“Just don't assassinate the king yet,” he joked, “He looks like he's still ready to shoot us.” Ryou wouldn't have been surprised if that was the actual case. Even if Mello won, he still wasn't quite sure he was without enemies. Ryou just hoped maybe he'd leave him well enough alone now.

 

The walk back to the Albatross had been magnificently short, as there were no people in Aeroglyph despite the passing day. The sun was just rising as they reached it, and as Malik glanced down at his watch, he saw it was past five in the morning. Everyone at Saint Roris would be pissed when they got there! Stressing this to Sith, Malik led Katt and Ishtar into the ship as the queen instructed Ryou, Bakura, and Yami to get everyone else on. Because Mello was the most skilled with a ship, he was elected as the driver. Bakura commented that he might just crash them, but Ryou chose to ignore him. With Sith there, he doubted highly that Mello would do something so rash. And when the ship took off without a problem, he had been right. In just minutes, Aeroglyph was behind them, and the Densch Plains rolled below.

 

“How do you think everyone will take the news of Ryou not being king?” Katt asked her sister, as they all sat down in the parlor. Sith leaned back, her fingers tapping on the edge of her chair. That was a good question, one that she didn't want to think about too much. At the very least, Yugi probably wouldn't be too happy. And Yaten, when he found out, might just have her arrested for it, even if it wasn't technically illegal. She sighed.

 

“I'll be lucky if I come out without even a scratch,” she replied. Ryou just gave her shoulder a pat.

 

“I'll explain it to them. They won't hate you for it,” he told her calmly, and then paled, “Well… my father might be a different story.” Sith just snorted. She knew he'd be a different story. There was no might about it. Likewise, Mello just laughed hysterically, and took out his pistol to prove his point.

 

“Your dad's a moron, Ryou,” he pointed out, and grinned, “I dare him to try taking me down.” Ryou looked back at him in disbelief, and he wasn't surprised at all when Sith stood up, walking over and smacking him over the head. He staggered forward, shocked clearly, but then he just laughed.

 

“Mihael, put that gun away NOW!” she ordered. Ryou's eyes widened. That was an order that would've made any sane person shiver in terror. Mello was clearly as insane as Sith was, for he simply continued laughing at her. All Ryou could do was watch in amazement. He'd never seen anyone take her commands so calmly, but at least he obeyed and put his gun back.

 

“See? A match made in heaven,” Ryou grumbled, wondering just how right Bakura might've been. Katt just inhaled heavily, waiting for Sith to hit Mello again. But she didn't. Once had obviously been enough, even if it caused the king to just laugh at her. He must've thought it cute that she was actually scolding him in public. Maybe it was just cute that she'd scold him at all.

 

“Agreed,” Katt mumbled, equally perturbed. Malik knew she wasn't too happy with how things turned out, and he patted her arm comfortingly. He smiled.

 

“I won't be as rebellious as Mello,” he promised. Ryou didn't believe that, and apparently, neither did Katt. But she accepted the promise anyway, knowing quite well that in any situation, Malik would break it. Not to be mean, of course, but because he was Malik. Just like she had disapproval for Mello, Sith had disapproval for Malik, and it was Sith who continuously warned Katt about the boy and his knack for ignoring anything that didn't fit his agendas. Silently, Katt thought they were even now. And just as silently, Ryou agreed as the two held each other's gaze for another moment. Then, Katt just snorted and patted Malik's hand.

 

“Of course you won't be,” she agreed, but even Malik knew she was being sarcastic. By that time, Sith had gone back to her seat, satisfied that Mello would actually behave himself now. Unfortunately, she seemed to have forgotten who she would be marrying now. Mello never gave up, and Katt gave him an opening for another snarky remark, unwittingly. He looked back, giving everyone that cocky grin of his. He was a damned idiot.

 

“Hey, what's wrong with being like me?” he asked, more of a whine than a question. Ryou actually snickered when Sith sighed heavily and rolled her eyes. He knew she was praying to, not only Bahamut, but to any Esper that'd listen to grant her the patience she needed now. Ryou didn't know whether to feel smug or bad about that.

 

“You happen to be the keyword,” Katt replied, and Malik gave Mello an equally smug grin. But it did nothing to lessen the older man's confidence. In fact, hearing those words from Katt, who was his worst enemy right then, just made him laugh on the inside. He would enjoy being her new brother-in-law; he could torture her and Sith wouldn't do anything. Except that she did just smack him for being a wiseass.

 

“I wouldn't say slander if I were you,” he warned teasingly, his grin only growing, “I'm your brother now.” That was all he needed to say.

 

“WHAT!?” Katt must not have realized the true implications of supporting Sith's decision on that, “No. NO! Sith, tell me he's wrong! Tell me!” Unfortunately, she knew Sith wouldn't be much support on her ordeal. And as she looked to Ryou, he simply raised a helpless brow. Technically, both of them allowed this to happen. Mello just laughed again, knowing only too well that they'd done it for Sith's sake.

 

“Too bad, it's true, deal with it!” he practically sang, turning back to the wheel. Katt's lips pursed and she stood up, going for her bag. Ryou didn't know exactly what she'd be doing, but then he saw her aiming it. Right for Mello's blonde head. He and Sith stood up at exactly the same moment, he to restrain Katt, and her to take the bag away. Katt struggled angrily, but when Sith held up her index finger, the red-haired woman calmed herself, tilting her head. Maybe Sith wasn't unsupportive, after all.

 

“It'll only rile him up if you fight with him,” Sith whispered, and Katt suddenly grinned, getting her point. She nodded with approval, and Sith crept up behind her fiancé. Ryou watched silently, wondering just how interesting his job would actually be. Would he be fighting for peace in Aeroglyph, or between its king and queen? He glanced at Bakura. The spirit just snorted and pretended to ignore Sith's movements. But when they heard a loud crack, along with Mello falling over and moaning in pain, no one could deny what their queen just did.

 

“Be nice,” was all Sith said, turning and immediately returning to her seat. Bakura, Ishtar, and Malik all fell into hysterical laughter as Mello slowly pulled himself up. Gustave and Kelvin, who'd taken the back seats, merely shook their heads at the spectacle. Katt just grinned triumphantly, and Ryou sat down next to Sith, trying and failing to not laugh. Sith herself seemed at peace again. She turned to Ryou, a spark of playfulness to her eyes as she said, “Mello hasn't changed at all.”

 

“Sounds to me you know how to keep him under control,” Ryou remarked, and Sith just chuckled. She leaned back, watching as Mello grumbled, rubbing his head and turning back to the wheel before they veered too far off course.

 

“As hard as it seems to calm him down, a good whack to his head usually gets him,” she replied, her smile sly. Ryou's smile just faded. He wasn't too keen on the fact that it took physical effort to tell Mello off. Sith wasn't a weak person; she could easily harm Mello if he went too far. And she had a sword. And Mello definitely had a knack for going just a bit too far.

 

“Bat-winged wench,” he mumbled, though it was too low for Sith to hear. Ryou caught it, and wondered if he should alert Sith or stab Mello. But in the end, he didn't. Mello was just being himself, after all.

 

Within the hour, Aeroglyph was far behind them, the Densch plains spreading far and wide in all directions. The sun was nearly fully risen now, the water toward the eastern ocean sparkling under the bright reflection. Only a light frost covered the grass below them, and a gentle breeze was currently sending the little bit of snow scattering. Truly, a beautiful day for Nesce. It made Ryou wonder how Domino was; it'd been nearly two days since he'd seen the city. Chances were nothing had changed, but this was the first time he'd ever been outside of his own world; with Rath dead and Sith back on the throne, Nesce was its own world once again, far off the planes of his own. He had a right to be scared, just a little. With Yugi and Malik, Ryou looked down at the sprawling plains. They were magnificent.

 

“I can't believe Sith's going to rule all of this!” Yugi exclaimed excitedly, “An entire world! That's a lot of power!”

 

“Let's hope she doesn't abuse it like Rath did,” Malik commented grimly, crossing his arms, “I don't want another berserk Winchester again.”

 

“I don't think we need to worry about her,” Ryou said, glancing back at Sith, who was currently speaking with Gustave about trading between her kingdom and his, and about the security on both sides, “She was born for this, and she's had over four thousand years to learn. I think she'll make a good ruler.” Yugi just nodded vigorously, having never needed to question Sith's judgment. Though that was mainly due to the fact that he looked up to her. Malik just snorted, shaking his head. There was only one flaw in Ryou's statement.

 

“Three of those four millennia were spent running the hell away from the other Espers,” Malik reminded them both smugly, and laughed, “Besides, she might've forgotten how to rule at all. Didn't her father die before her education was even… ouch!” Malik turned sharply when he felt a fist smack into his head. Sith had managed to hear his remarks. His eyes widened and he said, “Where'd you come from!?” She smiled thinly.

 

“This is my ship,” she pointed out, “As to my forgetting, that won't be happening. I might be old, but I'm not demented. I have my memory, clear as crystal.” Malik just snorted again. He'd heard that one from both Yami and Bakura. And he had believed neither of them. But he didn't want to argue with Sith. Not only would it upset Katt, and piss Mello off, Sith might actually throw him overboard. As queen, she did have that authority. He shrugged, turning back to the window.

 

“You never know. One of the Mystics could double-cross you,” he replied simply. Sith just bit her lip. That was a possibility, though a very slim one, considering the damages the Mystic race had taken. To Mello, though, it was a non-event. He let go of the wheel just long enough to show his beloved Winchester gun. And he grinned.

 

“Let them try, then,” he said confidently, “They lay a hand on the queen, they'll be spitting shells for thirty years.” No one doubted the threat in his words. Unfortunately, as he spoke, the ship managed to dip, and the ground came up close, spiraling and twisting as the ship continued its descent. The cause was clearly because Mello wasn't paying attention. Sith and Katt, being the quickest, reacted first. Katt screamed as Sith shot a hand to her husband, nearly smacking Ryou and bowling over Yugi in the process.

 

“STEADY US!” Katt screamed as Sith yelled, “Mihael!” Mello realized what he'd done, and took the wheel again, heaving it toward the left until the muscles in his arms hardened. Slowly, the ship began to level out before it managed to hit the bottom. Everything had toppled over in the resulting dive, but no one was injured as Mello slowed the ship to check the damages. Gustave and Kelvin, having been so far back, had been flattened against the wall. Ryou, Malik, and Yugi had practically flown across the floor. Link was currently lying in a broken crate; Mario was similarly affected. Katt and Sith were both strong enough to remain standing, but their knees had buckled and they were now kneeling, Sith looking up at Mello disapprovingly. Only the three spirits had remained the least bit unaffected. Mello just blushed heavily, knowing he nearly killed everyone.

 

“Sorry, everyone,” he mumbled, turning back to the wheel. Taking a deep breath, his muscles slowly relaxing from the sheer effort of pulling the ship steady, he took control and steered the ship back on course. Ryou slowly stood, thinking it probably best to help Mello in any way possible. They'd come too close to the vast Densch plains for his comfort; he wasn't about to be crushed to death just yet. He walked over and looked out the window to make sure Mello was actually driving the correct route. Not that he could tell; the entire plains looked the same in all directions. Then he saw, in the distance, a small city coming up closer and quicker than he felt was good. With Mello's speed, and how low they were flying, they might crash this time. He turned to Mello.

 

“Go higher,” he said quickly, “We're going to fly over a city!” Mello, unfortunately, didn't seem particularly concerned. He just raised an amused brow, taking only the slightest glance out the window.

 

“We're fine,” the older man replied with a shrug, “I've flown ships before. I know what I'm doing.” Ryou still wasn't sure of that, and neither was Sith. With Bakura, she walked over to the window, asking Ryou to point out the city. He did so. She frowned. He was right; they were dangerously close to it. And with the conical roofs and spires adorning most of the houses, the ship would take just as bad a beating as the city. Her lips thinned.

 

“That's Conquille-Maer,” Sith said in alarm, frowning, “Not only are we too far south, we're going to crush the entire city! Mello, raise the ship!” Mello's brows creased. He had never been wrong before, but the alarm in Sith's voice told him he might want to listen to her. He tugged the ship, but this time it wouldn't respond so readily to his command. And the city was coming closer. Mello just grunted, trying harder to pull the ship up. The controls must have jammed, for it still did nothing of benefit for them. Ryou looked out the window again. They were nearly upon the city now.

 

“You're flying too low!” he called. Mello just rolled his eyes. He knew that by now. But there wasn't anything he could do. With one final push, he threw all of his weight onto the wheel. The ship jerked, going up just a few feet. But only just, for it rose no more. They sailed above the city, many of its inhabitants pointing in wonder, or terror, about the Albatross. But Mello had done it. The ship hadn't crashed into any of the buildings. Except for when he turned to head back, just a bit. The bottom of the ship caught on one spire, taking the metal point off with a snap. Bakura just laughed as the metal dropped, clanging to the ground far below, where one Esper screamed in angry protest. Ryou just looked at Mello, this time his expression flat.

 

“You're flying way too low,” he said again.

 

With careful direction from Sith, and with Ryou going between cabin and deck to check on their path, the ride to Saint Roris came to a slow end. It was nearing noon by the time the ship landed in the lavish court, and Ryou was surprised to see that, as he stepped onto the deck to help Link and Malik unload the ladders to get off, everyone within the large temple had already gathered around. He wasn't surprised that it had been Anzu and Miho who led them out. When the ladders were secure, he climbed down, and they came over, eyes wide with curiosity.

 

“You're the new king now!” Miho exclaimed, “Oh, where's Sith? We've been waiting! Everyone's curious to see what you both will decide first!” Then, Anzu tapped her arm to quiet her down. They both noticed that Ryou hadn't said anything since they greeted him, and he just pointed to the ship, where Mello and Sith were departing, Katt and Malik behind them. They blinked, as though they couldn't believe the sight. Why on earth was Sith walking alongside a man they'd never even met before? Then it hit Anzu. And she frowned. This meant Ryou was obviously not the king.

 

“What happened?” she whispered, her smile turned completely upside-down. Ryou just smiled weakly. It was difficult to explain, but he told Anzu and Miho what had happened, including learning about Katt's hand in his situation with Sith. Neither woman could believe it. Mello had pulled off a long, slow, painful plan, and unwillingly, Katt had played into it. Anzu shook her head and said, “I'm sorry, Ryou.”

 

“I'm not,” Ryou replied, and both women looked at him squarely, “She's happier, I think. Besides, I'm not sure I was ready to rule such a huge kingdom. My father has trouble just letting me go to the store alone. Imagine having to let me live here, in another world.” Anzu just shrugged. That was a pretty good point. Any parent with a good mind would be iffy about letting their child live in a separate world. Still, that wasn't a good enough reason to let Mello win. The whole idea that their marriage had been false practically blew her mind. She frowned, looking back. Sith did seem at peace for once. But what was the difference? What did Mello have that Ryou didn't?

 

“As long as everything's okay,” Anzu said, deciding it best to not ask those questions. Ryou nodded, and then went back to join the precession. He was still part of it; as the knight, he technically should've been leading it. Miho just snorted. It looked like it'd still take some time before Ryou got the gist of his new job.

 

After greetings had been made, and after both Bahamut and Tiamat were seen to, Ryou led everyone outside of the temple back in. The halls were still filled with the arrangements made from before, but this time, many more Espers and Mystics alike had joined in the coronation. And all of them looked at their new monarchs proudly. Ryou glanced back at Mello, remembering Malik's suggestion that they might be double-crossed. But the man was smiling, if a bit worriedly. Ryou just shrugged. Mello would have his own fears. And as his knight, whether he wanted to or not, Ryou would be there if something happened. Which, of course, nothing did.

 

It took minutes for Ryou to even make his way to the central chamber, the hall was so tightly packed. They had passed the dining hall completely; there was no use going there again until the coronation ended. Besides, like the hallway, it too was packed with spectators. Ryou glanced back to see how Sith was taking the parade. She looked stiff; seeing the sheer number of subjects she would be commanding must've been daunting on her. Mello, on the other hand, just grinned triumphantly. Likewise, Malik was brimming with pride, too. Ryou just chuckled. Katt would need to take care so his head didn't swell too badly.

 

Throwing the doors to the central chamber open, Ryou was the first to go in. He went directly to the central pedestal, and stood in front of it, holding his sword out as a knight should, just as Sith had shown him just a little while before. The large chamber slowly filled with Espers, Mystics, and the human visitors from the worlds that allied themselves with Nesce. He saw Yugi and Joey pushing through crowds to find good seats for their friends. He also saw Rex and Kaiba practically bribing others to give up their seats. And he shook his head. If Sith saw that, she'd throw a fit. He turned his attention to the doors again. Malik and Katt finally came through, taking their places next to Ryou. But neither Sith nor Mello came. Ryou frowned. What was holding them up? He glanced over at Katt, but she didn't seem concerned. None of the Espers seemed to be confused, and he noted that some of the councilors from Sith's court were just as relaxed too. Then he heard two loud shifts behind him. It was Bahamut and Tiamat, sticking their heads in through the oversized windows. The wyvern that had been at Aeroglyph was with them, too. But after that, nothing happened.

 

The minutes passed slowly, and Ryou felt himself getting more and more anxious. Neither the king or queen appeared, and he began to wonder if something had actually happened. As their knight, he felt he should leave to investigate. But also as their knight, it was his job to keep the crowd in line. He was worried. He turned to Malik, and Malik was just as concerned as well. They nodded, and then Ryou felt a bump on his arm. Bahamut had nudged him and cleared his throat. Then Ryou understood why neither the king nor the queen were there. He was supposed to be announcing their arrival. He blushed profusely. Then he stepped forward and directed everyone's gaze to the doors.

 

“Warriors, lords, ladies, friends, and allies of Nesce, I present to you your beloved monarchs,” Ryou said loudly, hoping he was doing this right, “Sith Winchester and Mihael… Mihael…” Ryou frowned. He didn't actually know Mello's last name. Sith had started through, and then halted when she heard Ryou having trouble. She nearly laughed. She should've known Mello would throw one last obstacle in Ryou's path. She looked to her husband. He paled, knowing she understood what he did. Or didn't do. He took her arm and walked out with her.

 

“Mihael Keehl,” he corrected quickly, walking with Sith down the aisle. Malik just snorted, shaking his head. Bahamut looked particularly annoyed to see that once again, Mello disrupted what should've been a lovely celebration. Sith just chose to ignore what happened as they walked to the central pedestal. Ryou smiled, and both king and queen stopped. The queen hugged Ryou gently, and then walked onto the pedestal. The king just stared into Ryou's eyes for a moment. Ryou stared back, matching the seriousness Mello had to him. All fell silent for a moment, and both men were acutely aware that Sith was watching. They nodded at exactly the same second, and then Mello stepped onto the pedestal next to his wife.

 

“Let us judge how Sith Winchester shall leave this building,” Bahamut said, and the momentary cheering that had begun ceased abruptly. Ryou paled. They were going to judge her? After killing Rath? Katt looked back in terror, too. Sith, though initially virtuous to her causes, had an outstandingly long record of breaking multiple Esper laws. And of death, too. Bahamut cleared his throat.

 

“Sith Winchester, you have broken the seals of the forbidden spells, you have put over forty seven worlds in mortal danger, you have killed over five thousand humans and one thousand non-humans. You have broken many laws to your own benefit, and you have failed to register yourself in the ESB,” Bahamut began, and the silence seemed to thicken. That sounded pretty bad, though Ryou was sure at least some of it had been warranted. Bahamut continued, “However, you have also saved multiple worlds, captured over three thousand dangerous criminals, all wanted by different branches of the ESB, and you have brought the Mystics and Espers under one rule once again. Therefore, though your actions can be seen as deplorable, I see you are fit to rule your kingdom.” This time, cheer erupted from every part of the temple, and possibly from every part of Nesce itself. Sith just smiled, though she wasn't entirely surprised that she was queen. This was, after all, her birthright.

 

Bahamut next looked to Mello, and any pride he had for crowning Sith seemed to vanish as he looked upon the blonde man. This was the same man that had caused half of Sith's track record to begin with, not to mention he had a lengthy list of violations himself. In all honesty, Bahamut was surprised that Sith chose him rather than Ryou. But love couldn't truly be explained. The dragon just huffed and shook his head. This would be a particularly interesting judgment. And Mello was waiting for it, grinning smugly. Just like the grandest of idiots would.

 

“Mihael Keehl,” he said gruffly, eyes narrowing, “Where on earth am I to begin?”

 

“Start with the mafia!” someone in the crowd called, and Mello was sourly dismayed to see it was Matt, “Dude, he worked there for nearly two years!” Mello growled under his breath, wishing Matt would shut up. For once, he wasn't helping the cause at all. Sith just snorted, looking away. Bahamut promptly ignored the red-headed boy, looking down at Mello with large, golden eyes.

 

“Mihael Keehl, you have assaulted twenty men, murdered thirty eight people, kidnapped three women, stalked multiple innocents, and stolen multiple times on the grounds of grand larceny. You have destroyed two branches of the ESB, and stolen multiple files on the Winchester line. And you have illegally used the ESB devices for inter-world travel ten times,” Bahamut said, and Sith stared at Mello in disbelief. In some ways, his list was even worse than hers was. He just grinned. He couldn't exactly deny those claims. But he could've helped by not being so damn proud of it.

 

“Mello!” she hissed, shaking her head. She didn't know whether to be surprised or just annoyed with him. She heard Ryou chuckling, and looked down flatly. He stopped.

 

“There's something to redeem me, right?” Mello asked, feeling the condescending anger of Sith's gaze. Even if he was all right with his actions, if Sith wasn't, he'd have to find a way to right his wrongs. Or he might very well find a sword in his head. Tiamat chuckled, her laugh rumbling the temple as Bahamut just sighed. He knew it could've been much worse, but this was becoming too comical for his liking. And he knew Mello would make it worse if he didn't continue.

 

“No,” the dragon said flatly, “The only saving grace you have is that Sith Winchester loves you enough to ignore all of this, against her better judgment.” Mello's grin just became even more cocky, as though Sith's love could probably protect him from everything. If only he understood how embarrassed she was at that moment.

 

“Then why the hell isn't Ryou up there!?” Ryuuzaki asked, and Ryou turned to him sharply, “In my opinion, despite his idiot of a dad, I think he's ten times better than that asshole you have up there. He didn't murder anyone.” That wasn't true. He had killed multiple people, most of them being Mystics at that. Bahamut looked at the would-be detective for a moment, and then at Sith. Sith's eyes widened in worry. This was what she feared. Ryou glanced at her. As much as he wanted to help allay her fears, there wasn't much he could say or do. She just nodded to him. This was her problem, and she rose from her throne. All fell silent at her movement as she walked briskly toward the edge of the platform. She stared down at Ryou's friends sternly. Most of them didn't appear to understand her choice, either.

 

“Ryou isn't up here because he isn't supposed to be,” she replied calmly, and when they just blinked at her, she continued, “Ryou hasn't the power to rule my kingdom, nor does he have the strength. And within the past, which we've seen, he doesn't always think in everyone's best interest. Take those three alone, and he shouldn't be up here right now.” Sith was kind enough to leave out that Ryou didn't listen to her, either. Ryou paled slightly, but he didn't raise an argument against her. Some of his friends seemed to understand it a bit more, but most were still dismayed at the outcome. Particularly, Bakura was upset. Bakura had been there since Sith first entered Ryou's life, after all. It was he who asked her the most crucial question.

 

“But what about marriage? What happened to marrying Ryou?” he asked her grimly. Sith hesitated now. That was a very tricky subject. She looked back at Ryou. He just shrugged, unable to think of a good way to put this without making any of them look bad. Sith hadn't expected him to be able to, though. She turned to Bakura again.

 

“In the end, I doubt I'd have been happy,” she replied simply, quietly enough so only Bakura could hear, “You know as well as I do, how he is. Do you think… I'd have been happy, Bakura?” Bakura lowered his head. He didn't want to admit the answer. He also knew he hadn't been around for Sith's life before returning to Domino. As an old friend, he understood very well what may have happened during all of those years. He asked nothing else. Sith continued to watch him for another minute, and then stepped back. The pressure in the chamber was getting thicker, and she knew if the ceremony didn't end soon, people would begin to wonder what the hold up was. She nodded to Bahamut.

 

“However,” the old dragon said gruffly, his gaze having never left Mello, “Your skill is not without merit. You alone have foiled most of Rath's previous attempts to locate Sith Winchester, and you have managed to save a few worlds yourself, whether you meant to or not.” To Mello, that must've been a dream come true.

 

“See? I'm not completely evil!” he declared, but a swift kick from Sith shut him up again. Bahamut looked on the verge of devouring the man, as well. Ryou could only shake his head. He might've been a coward to these Espers, but he knew better than to constantly interrupt them. He just hoped Mello would live through the ceremony. Or live as much as an undead man could, anyway.

 

“You're still on watch,” Bahamut stated flatly, deciding that being eloquent just wouldn't serve his purpose any longer, “And if I find you putting Nesce in danger, I will remove you from the throne myself.” Mello nodded, but Ryou had the distinct feeling that he didn't take Bahamut too seriously. Bahamut just huffed, pulling his long neck back and gesturing for one Esper to come and present the crowns of Aeroglyph. Ryou saw Gilden walking up, and presented the crowns as he knelt before the pedestal. Bahamut reached a large, clawed hand for the first and placed it upon Sith's head. Then he smiled. It had been too long since he'd crowned anyone for Nesce's throne.

 

“I now crown you Sith Winchester, Queen of Nesce,” he said, for all Espers to hear. Cheering erupted from all sides, wild cheering that would've put any stadium in Ryou's world to shame. Sith just smiled; Now she felt as though what she was supposed to do was done. Finally, she was back on the throne, ruling her own world. Rath was gone; she would be plagued no more. And best of all, she had saved the world her father had so cherished in his lifetime. She'd seen to it that Ryou would be all right now, to live his own life without her. And it was proven when she saw him smiling as well.

 

When Bahamut finally turned to Mello, he said, “I crown you, Mihael Keehl, king of Nesce.” The cheering continued, though Ryou did note some of it seemed to cease or slow down. But it was still quite loud, ringing off of the walls and out into the courtyard. Tiamat just grinned, her teeth glistening in the sunlight that streamed through one of the stained glass windows. And with that, Mello took Sith's hand and stood. The cheering roared ever louder now, and with Ryou's help, the two descended the pedestal, making for the door. Ryou couldn't help now but know that he made the right choice. They looked happy, both of them.

 

The rest of the day went on in merriment and celebration. Sith had spoken to all of the remaining Espers on the ancient Council of Twelve, whereas they all gave her their most sincere blessings for both her rule and her marriage, which had been set for six months past. Sith had addressed her allies, and they all agreed to help repair that which Rath had destroyed in her disgraceful rule. And most importantly, Sith listened to the pleas and suggestions of her subjects. Many had new ideas for Aeroglyph, some vying for larger expansions of surrounding cities. And she had promised to review them all. Not one day in, and she was hard at work with her duties. Ryou could only be proud. That was Sith to a tee; never resting even for a second.

 

But now, as the night came on, Sith insisted they remain in Nesce until the early morning, when Mello would be more willing to see to their safety. Sith wasn't able to; she still had a fondness for alcohol, and after her fourth glass of brandy, Ryou knew it wasn't wise to beg her to take them back to their world. They all took their offer, even though most of Sith's allies had bid her goodnight and left for their own lands. Now, only Ryou and his friends remained with the Espers in the palace of Aeroglyph. And now, Ryou stood in his room, looking out the large, clear window over the right-side courtyard. It was filled with all forms of flowers from all different worlds, each able to hold up in the deathly cold of the Esper world. In just a few nights, he realized his life was going to go back to what it was: free of magic.

 

“Hard to fathom, isn't it?” came a voice behind him, and Ryou turned. Sith had come to see him. He smiled.

 

“Queen Sith,” he began, but she motioned for him to stop. He was her closest friend, and she made it clear he didn't have to be formal with her unless they were in court. Which they weren't. He bid her to come into his room, and she did so, her gown flowering along his carpet. Even in the night, it appeared to glow a beautiful blue.

 

“Are you all right?” she asked him, her worry startling him. He sat down in the chair by two bookcases, and she sat across from him. Her skin looked pale in the moonlight. Had she been worrying for long? Ryou just snorted softly. He hadn't thought she saw any sadness in him. She obviously did.

 

“Getting use to it,” he replied honestly, gesturing toward the room, “I've never been in a palace, so this is new to me.” But he had a feeling Sith wasn't speaking about that. She looked at him slyly, her smile returning.

 

“I mean about that,” she said pointedly. Ryou blushed slightly in embarrassment. He nodded slowly, wondering just how he actually felt. At first, he was envious. But something had changed within the day. And he didn't know what it was. He smiled weakly.

 

“I'm not sure,” he replied slowly, “I want you happy, Sith. I think you are. So, I'm happy, too.” Sith's eyes narrowed, but she found no untruth to his words. He was serious. He just laughed, knowing what she was doing. “How about Mello?”

 

“As happy as he could possibly be, I'd imagine,” she said, amused, “He's asleep right now.” Ryou snorted. It was still early, long before midnight would come. Mello must've been tired. After that, though, an uncomfortable silence filled the room. Ryou suddenly frowned. Sith had come here for a reason, and surely it wasn't to talk about her husband. He looked up at her.

 

“What's bothering you, Sith?” he asked, “I know something's wrong.” She sighed, turning toward the window. Then she stood up and walked over, looking at her gardens below. They glowed in the moonlight, like a sea of rippling buds.

 

“I wanted to say thank you,” she replied at length, “Ryou, because of you, I can have peace now. If I had stayed in Domino, I wouldn't have felt right. Something would've always been missing. But you were selfless, and you let me make the choices I wished for. Thank you, for everything.” Ryou felt his eyes water. What else could he have done for her? He stood, taking her hand for a moment. It felt warm in his palm. And as usual, he felt her strength in him.

 

“You don't need to thank me for any of it,” he told her gently, “Sith, you and I are friends. So we tried to become more, and very little came out of it. That's fine with me. I just hope Mello doesn't try to kill me again. That's no road I want to go down.” Not to mention that there was little reason for Mello to try to kill, either. Sith just smiled again. Without her glasses, Ryou saw the moonlight reflected in her eyes. She looked so relieved.

 

“Rest assured that my husband knows well enough to leave you alone,” she stated calmly, “And if he doesn't, then he will deal with me.” Ryou just snorted. Mello definitely knew well enough to avoid that. Sith finally stood, and for another long moment, silence enveloped the both of them. They stared for what felt like a very long time, each of them going through different, yet similar, emotions. Ryou felt a sudden sense of emptiness. This was the last night he'd see Sith as she was. Likewise, Sith knew this was the last time Ryou would be involved in her life actively. From that point, once she left his room, his role with her was passive. And vice versa. Six long years, they realized, had passed since they had first met. Six long, tiring years of hardship between themselves and the Mystics, and now it had ended. Now that it was seen to, their lives would go separate ways now. Ryou, to the normalcy he wanted. And for Sith, to the throne of all Espers, where she alone would be watching their worlds for eons of time. And while they would still be friends, Ryou felt he'd rather cut off his own arm before saying goodbye to her. But he forced himself to push the thought away. There was still tomorrow. He forced a smile.

 

“Goodnight, Sith,” he said. Sith hugged him, and she felt him shiver for just a second.

 

“Goodnight, Ryou. Get some sleep,” she replied, and let go. Then she nodded and backed toward the door. She looked back only once. Ryou just nodded, and then watched her go for good. Tomorrow, he knew, would be one of the hardest days of his life. Tomorrow, he would say goodbye to Sith for the rest of his life, until the day she needed him in court. Tomorrow, his time with magic would finally end.

 

-----------------------------(End Chapter)

 

After watching Sith crowned as the queen to her kingdom, Ryou now comes to the realization that this is the last time he'll see her again, at least for some time. With the threat of the Mystics confirmed to be gone, and with everyone now working to rebuild the worlds Rath lost, Ryou will now get his wish for a normal, happy life. But what of the others? What of Katt and Malik? How will everyone else handle the departure? Find out next chapter, so click that Review button!