#lientari

It was the duo’s last stand. The entire journey through the various states of america led them to the final confrontation against the powerful and cunning president of the United States of America: Funny Valentine. It may have not been clear at first, but it was now obvious that this was their real endpoint: Either they die here, or he does. 

A lot was at stake, most notably the holy and influential corpse parts of the saint. Whether they breathe their last ounce of air here would decide more than just who the prize money goes to, but also the fate of how the world is going to operate from that moment forth. 

Gyro Zeppeli was more than ready to set the record straight, and while the steel balls were once again at his control --

He did not get to have a say at how this battle ends.

His life was cut short, as the president shot him down before he could do anything. He could only say his prayers now, and hope that Johnny has learned what matters the most during their time together. Failing to stay on his horse -- Gyro Zeppeli falls to the ground.

There was one more person who needed to hear his goodbyes, though. Well, not a person, per se; It was something precious to him: a teddy bear he kept as a good luck charm this entire race.

“Nyoho.. Guess this is where my deck is laid bear.” He mutters, as if almost sincerely. His vision begins to blare, and he can hear the faint scream of his partner, Johnny, in the distance. “It’s kind of unbearable to think.. that I would die here. I wish I could help Johnny one last time... with my bear hands.” 

His breathing begins to finally slow down. he can feel his heart stopping as he grips tightly to the teddy bear, his only true comrade in this race.

“I’m.... beary sorry, Teddy.” are Gyro Zeppeli’s last words. His spirit drifts away, and his body seems at peace.