Revolutionary Girl Jessie
Season III

***Episode Nine: Memories***
***Episode Ten: To Eternity***
***Epilogue***

***Episode Nine***

Fanfare echoed in joyous tunes throughout the village. Peasants gathered in the streets and watched and cheered as the procession paraded through, straight on to Ohtori Castle. There was several murmuring and chattering.
"The prince has been sent a bride! Isn't it wonderful?"
"I find it a little primitive. They make it sound like he owns the girl!"
"The poor thing!"
"Poor thing? I think she's mighty lucky!"
One young woman stood at the door of her family's house, her hands clenched a little as her blue eyes watched with odd emotions stirring within her.
Inside a brightly decorated carriage, the young girl sat, her head bowed to hide her face from the awestruck and sympathetic faces. In her lap, her fingers were clasped around a single red rose. Back in her town, she took care of all the roses in the palace. But now, her father had given her to the prince of Ohtori. There was great rejoicing in both kingdoms. She became known as the Rose Bride.

******

The large doors closed with a loud click behind Jessie as she and Misty entered the castle. The only lights inside were the faint rays of the sun and dimly lit candles, which appeared dull, compared the brilliant shine of the castle's exterior. Misty followed close behind Jessie as they stepped slowly through the first hall. Jessie was silent, her eyes going over every detail, as if in a trance.
So what does this mean? She asked herself after several minutes, then finally aloud.
Misty looked at her with her large lime eyes.
"Pardon me, Miss Jessie?"
"I'm here. Now what do I do? What is the purpose of this?"
She was trying to make her tone sound forceful, demanding of an answer. But she could not hide the fear in her voice. Misty flashed her a bright smile.
"I do not know, Miss Jessie. I'm just the Rose Bride."
Jessie stared at her.
"I think you do, Misty."
Misty didn't say anything. Instead, she smiled and walked into a small room. Jessie stayed where she was for a minute or two, before deciding to follow Misty.
They had walked into a quiet, plainly decorated room. There was a window and a few pictures of landscapes that were faint and dusty. And there was a piano. A beautiful, grand piano. Misty brushed her fingers across the ivory keys and Jessie saw worn pieces of paper sitting on the bench. She picked them up and though they were barely legible, she could see several music notes drawn on them.
"Compositions?"
Misty sat down on the bench and begun to play… a light melody that drifted through Jessie's ears and into the long corridors of the castle.

The black haired knight sat at a piano, playing a sweet tune he composed himself. He had written it for the girl he had fallen in love with as soon as he saw her. But it was not meant to be. His head suddenly snapped up and his song ended with an ugly crunch. He looked up into the eyes of the intruder he sensed, and speech almost left him.
"M-Miss Bride!"
Her eyes were glued to him, seated there at the piano. He flushed with embarrassment.
"I-I know I shouldn't be here, Miss Bride, but I…uh…"
The Bride shook her head.
"No…Sir Satoshi, it was beautiful."
Satoshi gave her a smile, but she did not return it. Instead, she turned to leave the room.
"I-I'll play for you if you want!" He blurted.
She stopped and stood still for what seemed like an eternity.
"I'd like that," she said finally. "It's been a long time since I heard music like that."
She faced him again, this time a hint of a smile tugging at her lips.
"I'll be glad to play for you, Miss Bride…but tell me…what is your name?"
The Rose Bride hesitated.
"Just call me the Rose Bride, Sir Satoshi…"
"But…"
"That's what I am, isn't it?"
Satoshi looked at her, trying to think of something to say.
"Are you going to play for me?"
Satoshi nodded and looked down at the keys. The Bride walked up beside the piano as he played, listening to the piece he played.
"It's lovely…what is it called?"
"The Sunlit Garden."
"I'll never forget…"

Jessie stared at the notes scribbled on the paper and listened to Misty's playing. She knew the music well; Misty played it often. Now, Jessie didn't know much about reading music, but she had learned the basics. As her eyes sailed over the composition, she came to a realization.
"Misty…are you…are you playing this piece?"
Misty stopped and looked at her and the paper in her hands. She smiled.
"Of course not, Miss Jessie. How could I be?"
Jessie shook her head and laughed lightly.
"You're right, you're right."
She set the papers down on the piano and left the small music room. She walked down the corridor, still wondering what the purpose of this was.

Butch stood at the bottom of the winding staircase, his gaze lingering up the glittering stairs and onto the castle. James stood a little ways behind him, watching him watch the air.
"I wonder…" Butch started, but he didn't.
James looked from the castle, back to him.
"Why don't you go in?"
Butch didn't answer him.
"Butch…why don't you go in?!"
"I'm worried about her…"
"Then why don't you go in?! The stairs are right in front of you!"
"I don't see you rushing inside. And you of all people should be the one to do that!"
"What are you talking about?!"
"You know what I'm talking about! You love her!"
"So?"
"So go ahead! Be the hero, James! Be the HERO!"
"Oh please! We all know YOU'RE the hero-type, don't we?! You're the prince here, aren't you?! You're oh so chivalrous!"
"BOTH OF YOU STOP IT!"
Butch and James turned away from each other at the sound of Cassidy's voice. She scowled at them.
"You're acting so immature! Get a grip! You know we are not to go in there now, anyway!"
"If anyone is the hero here," Ash said in his soft voice, "it has to be Jessie."
They all grew silent and presently, they all looked up at the sparkling castle.

Satoshi sat in the corner of the Knight's Room, scribbling a new composition on a piece of paper. Across him sat Yamato, the only girl in the prince's Knight Council. And behind her stood Shigeru, Yamato's best friend and second-in-command of the knights.
"Anyone heard any more messages about the war?" Yamato queried.
Satoshi looked up from his paper.
"I haven't heard anything. There's only been news about the Prince's betrothal to…"
"Kasumi."
Satoshi and Yamato looked at Shigeru.
"How…how do know her name? She wouldn't tell me…"
Shigeru smirked.
"Why, the Prince himself told me. I can't believe you asked her. You know how young girls can be…"
His voice trailed off as Yamato was looking at him harshly. He walked over to a window where he could see her walking the courtyards with the prince.
"She's a beautiful creature. Such eyes…they make my heart soar."
"Shigeru…she's going to marry the prince."
"Yes, maybe so. But it isn't like she wants to."
Satoshi looked out the window.
"You don't think she wants to marry him?"
"Of course she doesn't. Why else would she be so unhappy?"
"Poor thing…"
"Poor lovely thing."
Yamato frowned and crossed her arms.
"I think you're both wasting your time."
"I agree."
The three turned their heads. The head knight stood in the shadows of the door, looking at them all.
"Kosabaru…"
"It's foolish of you to yearn for something you'll never have."
"Oh yes," Shigeru remarked. "And it's perfectly sensible for you to try and court that peasant girl."
"Of course it is. That girl is falling for me more every day. I can see it in her sapphire eyes…"
Yamato laughed.
"You think that girl is sweet on you? She thinks you are the scum of the earth!"
"She does not."
"I overheard her telling another girl how she wishes you'd leave her alone."
"You're only envious is all."
Yamato looked away and closed her eyes.
"Don't be ridiculous."
Kosabaru's eyes suddenly lit up.
"I know! I'll invite her for a private tour of the castle! Just the two of us…"
Shigeru raised an eyebrow.
"You think the prince will approve?"
"The prince is too busy with his new future bride. It's the perfect time."

Jessie entered what appeared to be a dining hall. Long tables were stretched out as far as she could imagine and brilliant chandeliers hung down from the ceiling. She walked down the tables, passing several elegant mirrors and small sculptures. She stopped in front of a portrait. The paper was old and wrinkled, and it was starting to fade. But Jessie could see the face perfectly.
James!
She would recognize his eyes anywhere.
"But…but it can't be! It's impossible! Then it must be…"
She did not continue. She stayed in her place and stared at the portrait until her vision blurred and she was sure she would go blind.
My prince…

"So Musashi, are you ready?"
Musashi flashed her blue eyes about the empty courtyard.
"Why are we going in the back way?"
Kosabaru smiled at her and put his arm around his shoulders.
"Because the front section is the best and you're supposed to save the best for last. Now come with me."
He slipped in and held the door open for her, allowing her inside.
He talked about this and that as they walked, their hands lightly brushing against each other's. He considered taking her hand, but she moved away before he had the chance. As he led her down another corridor, he saw some servants coming towards them. He stopped suddenly and pushed her behind him. The servants stopped in front of him.
"Good day, Sir Kosabaru."
"Good day. Where are you off to?"
"We have the requested wheat from the chef to prepare for the Prince's engagement feast."
"Ah, I see."
"Yes sir. The very best…"
Kosabaru nodded and waved his hand dismissively.
"Yes, very good. But we don't want to keep Chef waiting. You know how he gets…"
The servants smiled and bustled out of sight. Kosabaru grinned and turned back to face Musashi…but she was gone.
Musashi wandered slowly down the dining hall, tracing her fingertips along the chairs seated at the tables. She paused in front of a portrait of the prince. She smiled and her eyes glittered. But she didn't want to loiter in one place for too long, so she started to walk out.
::BUMP::
Musashi fell back on the carpeted floor as a result of the collision. She rubbed her throbbing head.
"Ow…"
"Pardon…I did not see you."
"It's all right…"
Musashi looked up and her heart leapt. Right in front of her, was he, himself, Prince Kojiro. She had seen him from her window plenty of times, and in pictures. And in her dreams. But never before had she seen him so close. His emerald eyes were the most gorgeous eyes she had ever seen, and his hair looked like silk. She knew she was staring, but she could not look away. Prince Kojiro reached down and took her hand, helping her gingerly off the floor.
"There you go."
She blushed at the feel of his hand and bowed her head to hide her face.
"T-Thank you, your highness."
Prince Kojiro let go of her hand and lifted her head lightly so he could see her. Musashi felt she would melt.
"I don't believe I've seen you around before. You can't possibly be a servant girl… Tell me, what is your name?"
"M-Musashi…if it pleases your highness."
"Musashi?"
The prince smiled a little.
"I see. So you're the one Sir Kosabaru has claimed."
A fire sparked in Musashi's eyes when he said this.
"'Claimed'?"
"His term, not mine."
Musashi clenched her hands.
"Well, of all the nerve! I cannot believe the audacity of that-that-that…" she paused and looked at the prince.
He was smiling at her, his eyes dancing with amusement.
"You're a very interesting girl, Musashi. Most peasants would love to hear one of the knights has his eye on her."
Musashi allowed her hands to relax once again.
"Yes, well I…I don't like being called 'claimed'."
"Of course you don't. Who would?"
Musashi smiled at him and he felt that it was the most beautiful smile he had ever seen.
"Would you like an escort throughout the rest of the castle?"
Musashi nodded eagerly and blushed again. Prince Kojiro smiled and turned to leave the room, motioning for her to follow. As they walked and talked, their hands brushed lightly against each other's and this time, Musashi didn't move away, and Prince Kojiro's hand clasped gently around hers.

Kasumi sat in a chair in her room, aimlessly fingering the folds of her red gown. She looked up at the sound of a knock and Prince Kojiro entered the room.
"Kasumi, there you are. I have something for you."
Kasumi stood and allowed him to take her hand. He led her outside to a courtyard that supposedly hadn't been opened for years. He turned to face her, a light smile on his face.
"I don't know if it's much…but it's all I could think of to make you feel more at home. To make you at least feel a little happy with the situation. That way, both of us won't be completely miserable."
Kasumi's lips pulled up at one end at that comment, but only for a brief moment. Prince Kojiro unlocked the gate and opened it. He stepped back and let Kasumi walk inside. Her eyes widened and began to shine. A bright, lovely smile lit up her face.
The courtyard was filled with roses.

"Where's your sister, Kosabaru?"
Kosabaru flipped back his teal hair.
"My sister? Why, she's visiting another kingdom."
Shigeru nodded.
"I just thought she might find it interesting that you were flirting with that peasant girl."
"Oh shut up. It's better than you swooning over the prince's bride."
Shigeru gave him a nasty look, then saw the prince walking by the room with someone.
"Why, look! There's your woman now."
Kosabaru turned and his jaw dropped.
"She's with the prince!"
Shigeru snickered and watched as Kosabaru slumped down into a chair and groaned.
Musashi leaned onto Prince Kojiro's shoulder and sighed. He smiled down at her and placed his hand on her back.
"We shouldn't…" Musashi started. "…I mean, you're engaged and…"
"I didn't choose to be, Musashi."
He stopped and looked at her.
"And if I'd known you before the betrothal was suggested, I would have refused."
Musashi blushed and he took her hands in his. She closed her sapphire eyes as he leaned his face down to hers…and kissed her.
The Rose Bride smiled slowly as she watched them from behind a corner. She was glad the prince and Musashi had found love…but at the same time, it scared her. If word about this got around…her kingdom and this kingdom would surely go to war. Another war was not needed, especially now since the two kingdoms were allies in the current war. What was to happen now?

James paced back and forth in front of the stairs, muttering to himself. Butch kneeled on the ground, tracing the dirt with his fingers. Cassidy and Ash sat back to back, staring worriedly into space. James suddenly stopped and clenched his fists.
"I can't stand this! I need to know what's happening to Jessie! I can't let her do this on her own!"
"James…"
"No! You can't change my mind!"
"James, you're being reckless! Don't be stupid!"
But he was already running up the stairs. The others stood up at a hopeless attempt to stop him…but to no avail.
"James! Stop!"
James flung open the door and headed in…
"JAMES!!!"
There was a burst of light and they closed their eyes before they were blinded. Once their eyes opened again, they could see James sprawled out on the hard ground. They looked up; the castle was still standing strong. Cassidy raced over to James. She touched his shoulder and shook him.
"James? James, get up."
There was no movement.

To be continued.

***Episode Ten***

The carriages wheels could be heard coming down the cobblestone road. Prince Kojiro stood waiting, his sword seeming to be the only light in the groggy fog. The Rose Bride stood off to the side, clutching a white rose to her chest. The knights stood behind the prince, watching for the carriage.
"Are you sure you won't need our assistance, your majesty?"
Prince Kojiro shook his head.
"No. I'll be having Shigeru with me, after all. That will be enough."
Suddenly the sound of the wheels picked up pace, and the horses whinnied loudly.
"Draw your swords!" Kosabaru shouted.
Prince Kojiro and the knights pulled out their swords as the carriage came into view…with a horde of cloaked people on horses following close behind. Yamato cut the horses free from the carriage and jumped on one. Kojiro, Satoshi, and Kosabaru followed suit. The cloaked enemy charged towards them, swords raised. Kojiro looked over his shoulder.
"Get Kasumi to safety, NOW!"
Shigeru nodded and grabbed the Rose Bride by the arm, pulling her with him into the castle.
Shigeru raced down the corridor, hand clasped tightly around Kasumi's arm. They stopped after awhile and Kasumi looked down the way they had come.
"Oh Kojiro…"
"I'm sure he'll be fine," Shigeru said, moving closer to her.
Kasumi clenched the rose a little tighter.
"What will become of me if he is killed…?"
Shigeru didn't answer and Kasumi noticed how he was looking at her.
"Sir Shigeru…"
Shigeru grabbed her tighter and pressed her against a wall, making her cry out.
"No, be silent!"
He stepped close to her.
"You deserve better than a prince who does not love you. Be mine, and I will grant all your heart desires. We shall love and live on for an eternity, you and I!"
Kasumi struggled in his grasp.
"No! Please! Let go!"
"Be still!"
They both froze as they heard running footsteps on the wooden floor. Shigeru opened a door to a small food storage room and pushed her inside.
"Stay there and be hushed!"
Kasumi crawled into a corner and cowered there, grasping her rose tighter than ever. She closed her eyes and almost cried when she heard Shigeru scream and a slice of a sword. And then there was another one. Then silence. Her eyes opened wide as the door started to open. She screamed and the light of the hall spilled in.
"Rose Bride…come on out."
Kasumi looked up into Yamato's face.
"Miss Yamato…"
"Come on out."
Kasumi stepped slowly out of the room and looked around. She covered her mouth and gasped, horrified.
"Sir Shigeru!"
Shigeru lay on the floor beside a cloaked man in pool of his own blood. She turned to Yamato.
"Miss Yamato…"
Yamato looked away from her grimly. Kojiro, Kosabaru, and Satoshi came running down the hall.
"Is everything all…"
Prince Kojiro stopped as his eyes fell upon the two dead men before him. Satoshi gasped.
"Sir Shigeru…oh no…"
Kasumi stared at Shigeru for a brief moment, and then threw herself into Prince Kojiro's arms. Her eyes were laced with tears and few fell onto the white rose petals. Prince Kojiro stroked her hair comfortingly while Yamato turned from them all and cried bitterly.

Jessie stepped into what appeared to be a throne room. It was empty, save for several chandeliers and red rugs on the floor and a few scattered wooden chairs. She turned as Misty stepped inside the room.
"Miss Jessie…are you ready?"
"Ready…for what? To learn what this is all about?"
Misty shook her head.
"For your final battle."
"My final…"
Misty tossed Jessie the Sword of Kojiro, which she had been holding the whole time. Then she brought her hands together and there were small rays of rose light coming from her chest. Her school uniform changed to a red flowing gown and a golden tiara. Her hair now cascaded down her back.
She was truly the Rose Bride.
Misty's own sword emerged in her hand and she took out two roses. She placed the green rose on her chest then walked over to Jessie. She smiled up at Jessie as she put the white one on her and Jessie looked at her strangely.
"Misty, I don't understand…"
"What is it you do not understand, Miss Jessie? We are dueling."
"But for what?"
Misty walked back to her place and raised her sword at Jessie, smiling. She winked.
"For everything."

******

James' half opened eyes stared up at the castle, breathing short, ragged intakes of air. Cassidy had allowed him to lean back against her in a stretched out position, and she patted his back alittle.
"You okay?"
James nodded.
"I'm fine… That…that was not fun…"
Cassidy rolled her eyes.
"No kidding…"
Ash smiled over at him.
"I'm just glad you're all right, James. We thought for sure you were…"
James raised an eyebrow.
"What? Dead? Heh…"
He closed his eyes and shuddered, remembering what he had seen. When he had opened the door, inside the castle was a cold, raining battlefield. The smell of blood had been overpowering. All he could see was war. And then…the blade of a sword, shining as it soared straight for him…
James started coughing. Cassidy gripped his shoulders.
"James?"
James was silent for a moment, staring at the hand he had just pulled away from his mouth. It was covered with blood. Ash and Cassidy's eyes widened. Cassidy stood and pulled James up with her.
"Something's wrong…come on, let's get you to the Treatment Center."
Butch looked over at them.
"You're leaving?"
"James needs help."
"What about the castle? Jessie?"
James reached for the castle.
"Can't leave Jessie," he protested.
"Jessie will be fine, James," Ash assured him.
"We'll get him to the center, make sure he's okay, and get back here in plenty of time. Come on, Butch. They won't let us in without you."
Butch cast one more glance at the castle before leaving the field with the others.

Kosabaru pulled open the door of the carriage for Prince Kojiro.
"I wish you would let me go with you, sire."
Prince Kojiro placed a hand on his shoulder.
"No. I need you here to protect Kasumi and the village…and the village people."
Kosabaru nodded.
"As you wish, your majesty."
Kasumi stepped up to Prince Kojiro.
"My prince…I want you to have this…"
She unfolded her hands to reveal a single white rose. He smiled at her.
"Thank you, Kasumi…"
She returned the smile and leaned up a little to place the rose on his breast pocket. He touched it lightly before getting into the carriage.
As the carriage rode off down the streets, he looked out at the passing houses. Suddenly, he said, "Stop right here!"
The driver stopped and looked back at him.
"Your highness?"
"I won't be long," he promised and stepped outside.
He went up to the door and knocked. Musashi opened the door and jumped slightly.
"Prince! What a surprise! What are you doing here?"
Prince Kojiro took her hand.
"Musashi…I'm going off to war."
Musashi stared at him.
"You're… The war?"
"Yes. But I shall return soon."
Musashi nodded slowly.
"If that's what you must do…"
"It is. I should be away only twelve days. If I have not spoken to you by the twelfth day, I want you to go to the castle and look for me… And if I'm there, I want you to kill me."
Musashi laughed lightly and looked at him, wondering if she should say or do something else. But she didn't have to. The prince slid his arms around her in a tight embrace and sighed. Musashi returned the hug.
"Twelve days, huh?" she murmured.
Prince Kojiro chuckled and let go of her.
"I love you, Musashi."
"I love you too, my prince…"
Prince Kojiro gave her one last smile before getting back in the carriage. Musashi was suddenly struck by an idea and ran up to it.
"Wait!"
Prince Kojiro halted the driver once more and leaned out the window.
"Musashi?"
Musashi slid a ring of her finger and placed it in his hands.
"Here. So you won't forget me and I won't have to kill you."
"Musashi…I can't take your ring…"
"Please. It's just some ring."
Prince Kojiro looked at it and fingered the rose engraved on it, slipping it onto his own finger.
"Thank you, Musashi. I promise to return it to you."
Musashi smiled at him and watched as the carriage started off again. She watched it until it was out of sight, and then returned to her house.

Misty's red gown swirled around her as she spun and swung at Jessie with sheer excellence and grace. She fought elegantly, like a swan dancing on the crest of the moon in the water, she moved. Jessie's sword danced around the room with hers, the gleam of their blades overpowering the dim light of the room itself. Jessie wanted to speak, but could not. Every movement and slice of the sword left her breathless and unable to utter even one syllable. Misty seemed content with the clanging silence, her glued smile always etched on her face.
That smile will go on and on through eternity…whether she wins this duel or not.
Jessie then learned that she could not think, only duel. Misty had backed her towards a window, and she had managed to step on a curtain, and it fell, tangling about her. Misty chuckled at this with amusement as Jessie sliced through the fabric and jumped back to her feet.
"Watch where you step, Miss Jessie," she chided before leaping at her.

James lay in a bed in the treatment center, restless. His eyes were clenched shut tightly and he trembled.
"Kojiro…Kojiro…"
The name called out to him and it sounded familiar, but for the life of him, he could not remember. He opened his eyes slowly to see an angelic rose light surrounding the area of his bed. He sat up and only then did he see the girl dressed in a red gown by his side.
"M-Misty…"
The girl smiled at him and shook her head. She pulled a sword out from behind her back and gently placed it in his hand. He looked at it in confusion. She pointed out in front of him.
"Throw it…my prince."
For some reason, it didn't feel strange to have this girl call him that. He didn't question it all. He felt as if his body was numb as he raised his arm and threw the sword, slicing into the darkness. A stabbing pain erupted in James' chest, filling his entire being. He clutched at his heart, and felt it pounding like a drum. He closed his eyes and heard his scream in his ears and the girl beside him recoiled in terror.
"KOJIRO!!!!"
James fell back against his bed and everything went black.
The student doctor at the treatment center entered the waiting room, scratching his head. He walked over to the group of three, his eyes narrowing with confusion.
"Is everything okay?" Ash asked him.
"Well…it's the strangest thing."
He led them to the room they had placed James in when he arrived. The window was closed and the bed was neat.
"He was in here when I went to get my assistant, but when I returned…he was gone. Nobody in the halls or at the front desk saw him leave."
"How…how is that possible?" Cassidy whispered to Butch, who shook his head.
"Strange… Oh well, shall we return to the field?"
Cassidy and Ash stared at him.
"You…want us to go back? What about James?"
"Oh, I'm sure he's fine. Probably just slipped out or something. Now come."
Butch started off down the hallway, and after a moment's hesitation, Ash and Cassidy followed him, leaving a very perplexed student.

Prince Kojiro's soaking hair whipped about his face in the blowing wind. The rain poured down mercilessly upon the soldiers as they fought. His sword was gripped tightly in his hand as he sat on his horse just beyond the battle.
All this fighting… It's so pointless…
Nonetheless, there was no stopping them. So with a wild battle cry, his horse charged towards the bloodbath. And just at that moment, a violent flash of light exploded before him. His eyes widened and quivered as a sword emerged, blade shining and directed his way.
Two soldiers of the Prince's army heard his scream of agony and turned in his direction. Their hearts fell as the Prince collapsed off his horse. They rushed to him.
"Sire! Prince Kojiro!"
Prince Kojiro gasped painfully for breath and looked at the two men.
"T-tell…tell…"
"Yes sir?"
"Tell…her…I love her…"
The soldiers nodded, managing to smile wistfully.
"Your Rose Bride? Of course, your highness…"
Prince Kojiro shook his head and pointed to the ring on his finger.
"No…tell…tell her…"
His voice caught in his throat as his emerald eyes closed. He went limp in the soldier's arms. One of them looked at the other.
"We must…send word to the palace…"
"Yes."
Carrying the Prince's body, the two ran from the field towards the lights of the nearest town.
"Our prince…" One soldier sighed. "So young."
"And engaged… I tell you, it's times like these when I stop believing in a happy ending for our world. It would take a miracle."
"A revolution," the other agreed. "Men like Prince Kojiro are never meant to die when they do. Happy endings…well, they'll just have to be delayed for a while, eh?"
"Yes. You are right."

Butch wrapped his hand around the handle of the large door. He stood there and waited for the drop of water to land on his ring.
But nothing happened.
"What's…going on?"
He pulled his hand away and tried again.
"The gate won't open!"
Cassidy and Ash both tried, but it wouldn't work. Ash stared up at the sky where he could see the very tops of the castle.
"Misty…MISTY!!!"
He rammed himself against the hard door. And Butch soon joined him. But it was useless. The door would not budge. The boys stopped and Ash slid down to the ground, whimpering.
"Misty…"

Musashi ran down the corridors of the castle, the voices of the guards chasing after her dying away slowly as she picked up speed. Finally, she reached the prince's room and threw herself in. She leaned against the door and froze. The room was dark, but one candle was lit. Kasumi sat beside it, with a white rose in her hair, two letters on the table in front of her. The girls stared at each other silently for several minutes.
"Musashi…I presume?"
Musashi nodded.
"The Rose Bride, I know…"
Kasumi smiled a little.
"Yes, I suppose…"
"The prince. Has he returned yet?"
Kasumi didn't answer, but she slid one of the letters over to her.
"What's this?"
"Read it."
Musashi picked up the letter and unfolded it. As her eyes read from top to bottom, Kasumi could see them filling with tears of disbelief. Musashi's hand trembled and the letter fluttered back to the table.
"No…"
Kasumi stood, taking the other letter and walking to her.
"Miss Musashi…this other letter is for…"
"No…I won't read it."
"But Miss Musashi…"
"No! No more!"
Musashi closed her eyes and stumbled away from her, tears streaming down her face. Kasumi gently spoke to her and walked towards her.
"No, don't! No more! No!"
She was stepping closer to the window.
"Miss Musashi…stop!"
She was closer…
Musashi could feel her heart tearing.
"I don't want to hear any more…that one letter was enough…"
Kasumi was staring to cry herself.
"Miss Musashi, the window!"
Kasumi's eyes widened.
"The window!!"
The fall…
The scream…
Kasumi fell to her knees and pounded her hands on the windowsill.
"Miss Musashi…I'm so sorry," she sobbed.
The rose in her hair loosened and as she bent her head, the petals slowly fell apart, flickering noiselessly down to the earth below. Kasumi watched it fall, tears staining her cheeks.
They say everything happens for a reason…but I don't believe that at all! All these deaths, all these mistakes! Mistakes! A happy ending doesn't come with mistakes! And how can a world be perfect without happy endings? Without revolution?
The other letter fell from her hands to the floor, unfolding as it did so. In elegantly written letters, it read: You shall be the ones to grant the world revolution. We are meant for eternity. You, me, and the Rose Bride.

******

Jessie stepped back and blinked away bead of sweat that rolled down her face.
"You want to quit, Miss Jessie?"
Jessie shook her head.
"No…I'm not going to quit now…I may not understand any of this, but I'm not quitting."
Misty raised her sword and slashed it at her.
"Admirable."
"Thank you."
Jessie and Misty clanged their swords together in a seemingly endless rhythm. They circled each other around the room until they both began to feel dizzy. Just as Jessie was beginning to get used to the rhythm, Misty stepped back and swung at her off the beat, throwing her off guard. She slipped backwards and fell back into a couple of chairs, breaking the old wood and hurting her back. Misty walked over to her, her sword swinging at her side like a pendulum. Jessie gripped the hilt of her sword tightly, but she was surrounded by the chairs and couldn't move to get up. Misty stood before her and stared at her for a while, then raised her sword and brought it down swiftly. Jessie brought her sword up roughly to block the blade. She gritted her teeth and held it steady, then grabbed a chair leg that broke off. Before Misty could see her, she swung the chair leg at her and swiped the rose off her chest.
The velvety rose petals fell from Misty's pocket and landed on Jessie's face. Misty stepped back, bringing her sword to her side. Jessie dropped her sword and brushed the rose off her face. Misty smiled at Jessie, her eyes shining.
"It is you," she whispered.
"Misty?"
Misty reached down and took Jessie's hand to help her up. Jessie picked up the sword and handed it to Misty, but she shook her head.
"No…hold it for now, Miss Jessie. Follow me, please."
Misty left the throne room, and Jessie walked after her.

They entered Prince Kojiro's room. Misty smiled wistfully and Jessie looked at the table. Two letters lay on it.
"What are those…?"
Misty walked over to the table and handed her the first letter. Jessie read it and looked at her.
"Prince Kojiro?"
Misty nodded.
"Died in a war?"
Misty nodded again.
"Hmm."
He couldn't be my prince then…
Misty gave her the other letter. It looked just like the ones she had received from her prince; the ones the Student Council received from "World's End".
You are the ones to grant the world revolution. We are meant for eternity. You, me, and...the Rose Bride?
Jessie slowly placed the letter down.
"I don't…understand… You are the Rose Bride…but this castle… You couldn't have been around when this castle was…! If it was… Misty! I don't understand!"
Misty nodded, smiling.
"That's okay, Miss Jessie."
The clock tower near the front of the campus grounds was about to chime. The New Year was almost here.
"There is one more thing I have to show you Miss Musashi."
Jessie felt a spark of slight recognition.
Musashi…
"What did you…call me?"
"Why…Miss Jessie, of course."
"O-of course…"

Ten…

Misty went over to the window, which was blocked by a large object, covered with a red sheet. She slid the red sheet off and revealed a coffin. It had a rose engraved on it.
"Misty…what is that?"
"Open it, Miss Jessie."

Nine…

Jessie reached forward and hesitated.
"There's someone in there?"
"Miss Jessie, we don't have much time."

Eight…

Jessie removed the heavy lid and dropped it to the floor. She looked back at the coffin and gasped.
She saw Gary.

Seven…

"Misty, what…"
He changed. She now saw Rhohun.
"What is this?"

Six…

Once again, it changed. Jessie gasped and dropped her sword. She saw James.
"James… No…no, not my James…"
Misty's eyes widened and she reached out to hold Jessie steady, for she was about to fall.
"Not yet, Miss Jessie."

Five…

James changed. Jessie closed her eyes. When she opened them again, she saw herself--blue eyes staring straight back into hers. She screamed and Misty let go.
She fell and the coffin broke into pieces, leaving only a window.

Four…

"MISTY!!!!!"
Misty reached down and grabbed the sword. She felt the castle move. It began to crumble. But she stood completely still and gripped the sword tighter. Jessie fell slowly, a million images rushing through her head at full speed as the castle fell around her.
Falling, falling to the water…and a pair of strong arms…WHERE ARE THEY????
Jessie closed her eyes and cried as a rose fell past her.

Three…

Butch, Ash, and Cassidy could feel the earth moving.
"What's going on?!"
Ash looked up and cried out. The other two followed his gaze.
"The castle is falling!!"

Jessie knew she was going to die. How could she survive a fall like this? She couldn't. Now she would die, just like Gary. Too caught up in something they didn't understand to see their doom. But she felt two arms wrap around her. She opened her tear filled eyes and almost smiled.
"James…?"
It can't be…I saw him…he was dead…
The man with emerald eyes smiled at her.
"Are you ready…for eternity?"

Two…

Jessie's head was spinning with frustration and the since of impending doom. But as she stared into his eyes, she knew, despite everything, that this was James. Somehow, it just was. And she was ready for anything…as long as she had him. Her eyes quivered, shining with her tears.
"Yes," she whispered.
He kissed her softly as a million roses engulfed them.
The sensation…of roses…

One…
HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The ground of the field was covered in roses. The castle and its remains were nowhere in sight. Misty fell, her gown now changing back to her school uniform, the sword slowly disappearing.
"The power to revolutionize the world," she whispered as she fell to the roses.
And all was darkness.

***Epilogue***

"There she is."
"At least she didn't vanish on us…" one student doctor muttered to the other.
"What are you talking about?"
"Don't worry about it. I'll tell you later… Hey look, she opened her eyes."
"Hello there. Can you hear us?"
Yes…yes, I can.
"Can you tell us your name?"
I'm the Rose Bride…no…I'm Misty. Yes…Misty.
"What happened to you?"
Nevermind that. Did Miss Jessie…?
"Was anyone else there?"
"No, she was the only one."
Then she must have made it—her and James…Musashi and Kojiro.
"Poor thing must be traumatized."
I'm so glad…
"I wonder if she fell."
I flew I think. Or maybe I was falling…only very slowly.
"You idiot."
I hope Miss Jessie and Prince James are happy in the castle now.
"Huh?"
I'm sure they are.
"She couldn't have fallen. What would she have landed on?"
…
"Yeah, I guess you're right."
The roses…

End of Revolutionary Girl Jessie.
The Absolute Destiny Apocalypse.~*