Artemis heard silence, and imagined that both parties had entered a standoff. He tilted his head lightly so he could see what was going on. In the dim light, he saw Mello clutching his hand to his body and Schuldig ready to attack if Mello decided that one broken wrist wasn't enough.

"I think we're finished here," Artemis said, his tone quiet and final. "Let him go, Schuldig. You've made your point beautifully." Artemis coughed again and wheezed a little. After a few breaths, he continued.

"I suggest you leave now, Mello, before Schuldig decides that you haven't learned your lesson properly." He, however, stayed firmly under the desk.