synthneon | YGO PSL | ❝ claw my way out through these walls, one temporary escape. ❞

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YGO PSL | ❝ claw my way out through these walls, one temporary escape. ❞

			HURT / COMFORT 
		

Pharaoh!

[ It's probably pointless for him to throw his weight into a door that only exists within their shared mindscape. He could have just turned the handle or put his hand on the door and the ancient bolted door would have opened.

There's no time for that!

Their friends are in danger. Each name runs through his thoughts as he tilts his head back to look at the maze of stairs. He doesn't trust Malik's darker side to not take advantage of the situation and chaos. Mai and Joey are still in danger. Kaiba doesn't believe in magic to defend himself from it. Tea, Tristan and Duke are all there simply because they want to cheer them on. Then, there's Malik's sister, Odion, and somehow Luna and her friend got on board. There's too much at stake for either one of them to be down for the count.

Not that he regrets for a moment going along with the insane idea of throwing themselves into Ra's blast to protect Joey and Mai.

But, now there's a rising panic that something might have happened to his best friend. He was in control. It was a Shadow Game, right? What happens when someone takes a bolt of energy from a god?

Yugi picks the nearest door and throws it open in hopes of finding him. ]

Other Me?!

[ Despite the fear and panic in his voice? There's a mild determination. His friend had taken the bolt, but Yugi was going to make sure he was the one that shouldered the pain. It's fair--they're both in this together!

He's just not sure how long he's going to be able to handle it. It feels like his whole body is on fire. ]

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[ Of course, Yugi could have just opened the door, or placed his hand on it, and it would have opened to him. There's not very much that the pharaoh would hide from his friend- after all, he's someone much closer to him than a mere friend.

In fact, he's been waiting for Yugi to come, ever since this whole nightmare with Marik started, and since they took the blast from Ra in order to protect Joey and Mai.

So when the door is thrown open and Yugi steps in, he'll find his other self standing there waiting. Naturally, taking a direct hit from an Egyptian god is nothing to sniff at, but they're not in a position to let even that keep them down for long. So, discomfort or soreness or anything aside, the pharaoh is just resolutely ignoring all that and thinking about their next moves.

But with Yugi's arrival, he puts his thoughts on hold and focuses in on his friend. ]

I'm right here, Yugi. Are you all right?

[ Things really haven't stopped since this whole tournament started. Normally, Yugi has no issue with visiting his best friend and talking to him for hours on end. Even if he should be sleeping for the school the next morning. But, it's been one duel after another, one escalation of a threat to the next. It's only been passing comments to one another and quick consultations.

Is now the time to really have a conversation when Malik could kill any of them?

Part of Yugi is relieved to see that Atem is well, in one piece doesn't make sense to say when it's just their spirits talking. The other part is shocked that he doesn't seem bothered at all by the attack they took for Mai and Joey. Maybe Atem is just always this composed and it's him that shouldn't be reacting so emotionally.

But, he can't help it. ]

Am I alright? What about you?! [ Yugi comes to a stop in front of the older spirit, tilting his head back to look at him properly. ] You're the one that was in control when Ra attacked! Are you okay?

[ Maybe his other self is just so composed because Yugi is keeping all the physical pain to himself. He wouldn't say he's necessarily tucked it away, but, he has figured out how to hide certain things if he feels the need.

Then he stops for a moment. If both of them are here... ]

One of us needs to wake up! Joey and Mai are still...

[ As much as Atem enjoys spending time with his other half, he's far too worried about what's to come and what's already happened to be truly relaxed right now. And to add to those worries, he's wondering how Yugi is faring, after that blast from Ra. Just because he has slightly more resilience doesn't mean the same is true for his younger counterpart.

He's not startled by Yugi's questions, because they're ones he wants to ask too, but first he intends to try and ease his concerns. ]

Of course I'm all right. A blast from an Egyptian god is not something easily shaken off, but it would take more than that to stop me. [ He pauses, this time giving Yugi a good looking-over. ] What worries me more is how you are after all that.

How are you feeling? Did you notice anything unusual afterwards?

[ If Atem has even the slightest inkling that Yugi's trying to conceal his hurt from him, he hasn't yet let that show. And at the mention of Joey's and Mai's names, his expression clouds. ]

Yes, you're right. We need to see this tournament through so that we can put a stop to this madness and undo what's been done to our friends.

[ It should never have happened in the first place, and although he hasn't said it aloud, the fact that it did feels like his failure and his mistake to fix. ]

But first, I have to know that you are all right. After all, we're in this together, aren't we?

[ It's how they've always operated for the most part. Yes, they've had their disagreements, but in the end, they always try to work together. ]

[ Once they've taken care of this -- because he knows they will -- they'll need to set time aside for them. Just to talk and sort it all out. How many of his memories are going to return once they've finished this fight? What will happen once they have returned? Yugi isn't sure if it's a sense of dreamd or fear ... but it hangs in the back of the mind like a cloud.

What if he loses his other self? Yugi knows he is only where he is because of him. The friends he's made, the feats they've achieved... what happens if he loses the better part of himself? No, that's wrong. The Pharaoh is his own person. He has his own feelings, thoughts, and drives. His just happen to line up with what Yugi wants too. ]

Of course it would.

[ Yugi frowns and his gaze drops. His other self has always been more confident and self-assured. Nothing really slows him down. He picks a path and walks it with his head held high. Should he have even been worried to start with? ]

I'm fine! [ He insists it. Yugi might not see himself as strong or commanding as the ancient soul, but, he doesn't want others to think what he does of himself. They need to think he's just as fine and can continue on too. ] I woke up in my room, but I don't know how long it's been since Ra's attack.

[ What he does know is that it's not really alright. He doesn't think anything is broken, but, that attack left physical damage. That must be the price of playing in a Shadow Game. Maybe he should be the one to wake up then. His other self can't notice it if he's not in control. ]

Of course we are -- like always.

[ Yugi nods. ] I'll make sure everyone is alright. Then, we'll figure out what to do next.

[ They do have much to talk about, but there never seems to be enough time for them to just meet and talk, or for him to listen to Yugi's worries, thoughts, and concerns. He makes a resolution right then to make an effort to make time for such a meeting, because it feels very important that it happen.

And while some things are very much out of his control, for the moment, the last thing he intends is for there to be some sort of separation between them. They are quite different in a lot of ways, but they're still very similar in others, and as trite as it may be, he can't help but think that in a lot of ways, they are two halves of a whole.

As for those thoughts running through Yugi's mind, if Atem knew about them, he'd do his best to put them to rest. Yugi is brave already, and confident when it really counts. But more importantly, he has heart, and that leads to courage when things are really dire. ]

Are you? I know better than to believe that Ra's attack didn't affect you as well.

[ He peers a little closer at Yugi, as if doing so will allow him to see if there really is anything wrong. ]

You don't have to hide how you feel from me, Yugi. If there is something wrong, I would like to hear about it, if it's something you want to talk about.

[ He won't force him to talk if he doesn't want to, but he does want to encourage him to open up, if he feels that that's something he needs.

Still, Atem can't help but let out a quiet sigh. ]

I have to believe that everyone will be all right in the end, but it may be a long road to get there.

[ There are considerable obstacles in their way, and if they should fail, the consequences will be more than catastrophic. But he doesn't want to let on about that around Yugi, so he straightens up and that confident exterior falls back into place. ]

If you need to rest, Yugi, you should. It will be harder to help our friends if you aren't well-rested.

[ And unhurt, of course. Yugi's well-being is always at the forefront of his mind, but especially now in the aftermath of recent events. ]

[ Yugi almost feels himself shrinking slightly under the gaze of the ancient spirit. Is it that obvious when he's trying to hide something? Maybe it is to Atem. The two have shared so much while thinking they were the same person. Both of them can tell when the other is upset, or lonely, or needs time to themselves.

He clenches his fists slightly as he feels the prickling on his back. It's almost like a slow burn. That's strange to him. He would figure that it'd be an instant burning fire. ]

It did, but--but that shouldn't stop us. [ Or me.

If Atem can push forward no matter the odds? He can to. He has to if he's going to one day catch up to his other half. Now isn't the time to talk about any of this. One of them has to wake up to see what's going on. Even if it's just a little while. Then they can rest. ]

I need to be able to keep up with everyone -- with you.

[ Yugi half-turns back towards the door. Despite the hesitation and worry in his eyes? He's ready to act. Well, as ready as he'll ever be. He takes note of that brief slip of the confident aura his other self gives, but, he doesn't bring it to attention. ]

Let's find out what happened to everyone first. Then, we can worry about taking breaks and resting.

[ Which means there is nothing that is going to change his mind from it.

Yugi turns on his heel. Pat, pat. Two steps and then there's nothing but pain. It sends a shock through his whole system -- odd to say given this is just their minds. He falls down to one knee, eyes shut. There's that burning pain he was expecting. Still, it's better than Atem having to take the pain. He handles enough between the two of them... more than enough.

He should be able to shoulder this for his best friend. One of them has to make it to the finals. ]

You're right, it shouldn't stop us, but we aren't going to be very much use to our friends if we push ourselves too hard as well.

[ Meaning he's more than a little concerned for Yugi, and he's not hiding that concern anymore either. ]

You've always done more than your fair share, Yugi, and you don't need to worry about keeping up with me. [ He manages a smile for his benefit. ] The two of us have always been right alongside each other this whole time, and I don't see that changing now.

[ Yugi really is strong, much stronger than he gives himself credit for, and maybe he hasn't done a good enough job of reminding him of that. Well, that changes now. ]

Are you sure, Yugi? You know we have time to rest for a little while.

[ He watches him turn back towards the door, and he's about to say something else, but suddenly he watches as Yugi drops down to the floor. It's what he was afraid of, that something was wrong and Yugi wasn't telling him about it. In less than a second, he crosses the distance between them so he's right next to Yugi. ]

Yugi, what did you do?

[ He's simply afraid of what Malik is going to do if they aren't there to stand the line. They're the one with the Millennium Item outside of Ishizu. Is Malik really going to just keep his focus just on the Pharaoh? Yugi doesn't think so. He's sure that Malik would try something underhanded and beneath their noses. He's not a duelist in honor or spirit.

Malik is someone that needs to be saved. Just like Bakura, or anyone else that's fallen under the evil sway of the Millennium Items. But, that evil side of him is just as dangerous as Bakura's.

There's a smile on his face at the compliment from Atem. Sad, and small, but still a smile regardless. There's so much he owes Atem for. Without him, Joey and Honda wouldn't have been saved to become their friends. Kaiba would have never healed his dark heart. They would have never saved his Grandpa. Maybe it doesn't seem like he needs to catch up to the Pharaoh in his eyes, but, from where Yugi stands? All he can see is the towering force that is his closest friend--and hope once day he can stand just as tall as him. ]

I don't want it to change.

[ They're partners.

There is a sharp heat that is radiating from his back. Energy from Ra's blast that he has been holding back and to himself. His face scrunches up, fists clenching. A moment passes, then another. Finally, he opens one eye to look up at his other half. ]

You took the hit -- so I'm going to carry it.

Edited 2021-05-23 00:52 (UTC)

[ Atem hasn't thought about that, because as far as he's concerned, there is no scenario in which they aren't there to stand in the way of Malik's machinations. Yes, there's a strong chance that they might be knocked down, but he's confident (because he has to be) that they'll get back up again, just like they did after Ra's attack.

But he'd absolutely agree with Yugi; someone like Malik isn't just going to focus on them and leave the others alone. He's already proved that by going after Bakura, Mai, Joey, and even Odion. That's even more reason why they have to keep fighting and continue making their stand against Malik, whatever it takes. ]

It won't. I'm more sure about that than I've ever been sure about anything.

[ And memories or no memories, he's reasonably certain that even with 5000 years of history behind him, nothing has come close to the certainty he feels right now.

Of course, that certainty is tempered by sheer concern, because he didn't realize that's what Yugi's been doing this whole time. He mentally chastises himself for not knowing, and he's quick to grab Yugi by the hand and try to fix this. ]

Yugi, you don't have to carry it.

[ He's not often at a loss for words, but there's a lot of complicated thoughts swirling around his mind, and he wants to impress on him how much he understands and values him, but this... It's a brave yet unnecessary action, and it absolutely doesn't mean that he doesn't believe he can handle it. That's what he's afraid Yugi will think he's saying, but it's absolutely not the truth. ]

Let me take it on, Yugi. I know you're more than able to handle it, but you don't have to.

[ They're partners, yes, and they share just about everything, but he can see what it's doing to him, or at least, he can see that look on Yugi's face, and he just can't allow this to continue. ]

[ Yugi would like it if things never changed--even if that's highly unrealistic. He wants the friends that he's finally found to stay close, and he wants his other self to stay with him. Maybe Atem won't want to stay once he has all his memories. There's plenty of unknowns that make him nervous and even scared for the future. Though, he doesn't plan on sharing those inner thoughts. He doesn't want them to realize how much he depends on them all--how much he's wished for friends like this. Atem might already know; especially if he heard the wish that Yugi had made on the puzzle before completing it. ]

I want to. [ Despite the pain on his face, Yugi's expression has determination to match Atem's certainty. ] You've done so much for me and for all of us, Pharaoh. You're the one that faces the duels, and the Shadow Games, and all the Millennium Items.

[ Even if it isn't much? He wants to be able to at least carry something so Atem has one less thing to do for them. One hand raises to rest on Atem's with a broad smile on his face. Yes, it hurts. It hurts more than any of the bullies in school or any of the crazy adventures they had before Pegasus. But, he's learned how to be brave from his other self... and he's going to prove it. ]

This is something I can do for you.

[ Yugi would say more, but his he notices a faint glow coming from his hand. His eyebrows knit together. It's not coming from him... is it? ]

Edited 2021-05-24 03:35 (UTC)

[ Yugi isn't the only one who wishes things could stay the way they are forever. Of course Atem knows that everything changes in the end, but he hopes that the bond that he and Yugi share stays intact for as long as possible. Even if he gets his memories back, he really can't imagine not being a part of Yugi's life. As long as Yugi wants him around and still has things he can learn from him, he intends to be there, but if the time comes that Yugi no longer needs him, well- That'll be when he moves on. ]

You've done a lot for me too, Yugi. In fact, I consider myself very fortunate to have a partner like you.

[ He doesn't bother hiding a warm smile and directing it at his friend. Because that's what they are at the end of the day: partners, friends, and brothers.

And that's why it worries him so much that Yugi's shouldering this burden. Of course Yugi is strong, but even the strongest can only take on so much. For now, though, he sees that he's not going to change Yugi's mind. His determination is clear, as is his desire to repay Atem.

He knows that there's nothing to repay as far as he's concerned, but he can recognize a mind that has been made up. ]

Well, thank you, Yugi. [ And he resolves then and there to repay him in kind when the chance presents itself.

For the moment, though, Atem finds his attention drawn to that strange glowing coming from Yugi's hand. ]

Yugi, wait a moment. What is that?

[ He moves closer so he can get a better look. The last thing they need is another undesirable surprise. ]

[ That bond has to stay--otherwise what is the point of all this? Why would destiny, or fate, have him solve a puzzle no one else could, befriend the spirit inside it, if he couldn't they be friends--brothers--forever?

What has he done for Atem? It's something he'd ask, if it wasn't for the light on his hand glowing brighter. He holds his hand up. The light radiates a gentle feeling - like a warm summer breeze. He blinks as it moves up his arm. It's nothing he's felt before. ]

I... I don't know. [ It's an honest statement, despite the confusion on his face. ] It's warm, but not hot.

[ It feels like the burning is going away. The pain is still there, but, all he can focus on is that warm gentle feeling. It isn't the feeling or the warmth that feels familiar, but the tenderness behind it. The name is on the forefront of his mind. That wouldn't make sense though. How could that be...? ]

I think it's okay though, Other Me.

[ Although, that might not be very comforting at first. Considering after he blinks once, then twice, Yugi feels himself falling over. Exhaustion. Pain. That comforting feeling. It all hits him at once.

As he falls to the ground of Atem's soul room, that glow encompasses him. It doesn't ward anyone away or discourage touch. In an odd way? It's like a blanket. ]

[ That's a question Atem wishes he had the answer to. But even then, if they knew the answer, would that change anything? They'd still be resolved to stay together, because they've been together so long and been through so much that, at least for Atem, it's difficult to imagine not being there alongside Yugi.

He's about to make some comment about whatever strange thing is happening now, but he doesn't get a chance to. Before he even registers what's happening, he realizes Yugi's falling over, and he's quick to cross over and try to grab onto him before he hits the ground.

It's only then that he realizes the glow that started on Yugi's hand has now enveloped him completely. ]

What is this?

[ If this was some evil, he can't imagine that it would look like this. He associates evil with darkness, not with light, but that's not important. What is important is making sure that Yugi's all right. He mentally chastises himself for not insisting that he take on the after-effects of Ra's blast, because now look at what's happened.

For once, he hesitates, not certain what he should do. If the glowing light is helping, then moving Yugi might disrupt it, but how is he to know if it's helping or not? ]

Where is this light coming from? [ Should he wake up and see what is happening in the waking world? And if he does, then what will happen to Yugi? It seems clear enough that he's not going to learn anything by staying asleep, so it's with that in mind that he all but forces himself awake.

Still, it takes a few minutes, but once he manages it, he sits right up so he can look around, unsure of what he'll find. ]

[ What he will find is the familiar face of Lunafreya. Her blonde hair that is normally in a ponytail is down around her shoulders, dressed in fairly normal clothes compared to her normal dress. Her hands are raised between them, glowing in a translucent golden light. An unusual surprised look is on her face. In truth, she had not expected to see either one of them awake so quickly. Nor had she expected either one of them to be so alert.

It takes but a moment for her to realize who is in control. There is a difference in aura... presence. Also, quite possibly, a few pieces of hair that seem to stand on end when it is a certain person. Lunafreya stands proper then, hands folding together in front of her and the glow temporarily goes away. She gives a bow -- as it is only proper. ]

Heika, [ a brief formal greeting, ] please, lay back down on your front. You nor Yugi-sama are not healthy enough to sit up yet...

[ Lunafreya realizes she will need to explain this. The ability to heal was left out of the explanation of her family, their lineage, and her duty as Oracle. It seemed unimportant at the time. Not until the Shadow Games had gotten out of hand. ]

I will answer whatever questions you may have as I work.

[ For just a moment, he looks around the room and then back at her in confusion. He remembers taking the hit from Ra, but not much else after that, such as how he got here. Of course, he supposes his friends must have, but he doesn't remember Luna being present at that time.

So Luna's surprised face is mirrored by his own, but that surprise quickly gives way to something that's more like an uncomfortable grimace. ]

I'm all right. [ He isn't, at least not yet, but there's more important matters at stake here. ] I have to know if my friends are all right, and more importantly, what Marik is doing. He can't be allowed to succeed with his plans, and I can't stop him if I'm lying down in here.

[ Sorry Luna, but he's going to try and get up now. There's no time to waste, which means he has to get up and move, injuries or no injuries. And yes, it's a surprise to learn that she can heal, but he'll have to ask her about that later when time isn't of the essence. ]

No, neither of you are alright. You were hit by the full wrath of a god, heika. You will need time to recover before... [ she trails off the moment he moves to get up. A step to the side and she has her arm out in front of him to not only stop him, but to catch him. She knows it is only a matter of moments before the shock wears off and the pain settles in. ] Your friends are resting, waiting to hear how you both are fairing. Once I've tended to the two of you, I intend to visit your friend that lost her battle... and then to the man that also lost.

[ Lunafreya hardly knows all their names, but that does not matter. They are people in need. Her duty is to make harmony between both worlds, but to also care for those in this world. She may not be able to reverse the effects done by Millennium Items and Shadow Games, but, she can help by aiding their bodies and comforting them. ]

They brought you here on Kaiba-sama's orders. Your friends were here until I offered my services and asked them to leave to attend to your wounds.

I assure you, we are. Perhaps Yugi needs time to recover, but I will be all right.

[ He tries to straighten up, but he has to stop, because the movement is pulling on his injuries. ]

You should see to them first; what happened to us pales in comparison to what Malik has done to them.

[ And perhaps there's nothing she can do, but he believes her time is better spent seeing to them. ]

Do you know what is happening with the tournament?

[ He has his priorities, and finding out what is happening with the tournament and what Malik is currently doing is more important than his sitting here being healed. His injuries are not that serious, nor the worst that he's ever had. ]

[ A knowing expression takes her face as he attempts to sit up to no avail. She steps proper in front of him then, hands raising gently to rest on his shoulders. He is certainly stubborn, but, it seems to be a trait he shares with Yugi as well. The latter is merely more subtle about it. ]

While your injuries are extensive, your friends may take more care. Please. Allow me to tend to you first so you might return to your battlefield faster. If it will put your mind at ease, I will ask my oldest friend to watch over the others.

[ If he looks around her, Atem will see a tall woman standing near the door. She is dressed in a black suit and gold trim, long black hair that frames her face. With her eyes closed, she is seemingly blind. ]

Kaiba-sama has postponed the next duel until injuries and the capability of the participants has been assessed. He seems to favor the idea of fighting you at full strength.

[ He wants to push past her, to stand up and put an end to all this madness, but even as he tries, the pain from his injuries is finally beginning to sink in. But if anyone can push past it and get back up, it should be him.

Not wanting to push her away or hurt her, he wrestles with himself, wanting to get up and find Marik and right the terrible wrongs he's committed, but while his will is strong, the burns he received from Ra seem to be stronger.

He finally realizes he has no choice but to let Luna tend to him, and then maybe when she's finished, he can get back to setting things right. ]

All right. I'll stay here for now, but as soon as you've finished, I have to go.

[ And he turns his head to look at who she's talking about, and while he has no idea who she is, he senses a well of strength coming from her. ]

If she is a friend of yours, then I'm sure she is more than capable of looking after them. [ Basically, he's going to put his trust in Luna and in her friend and hope that his trust isn't misplaced. ]

I'm not surprised. Kaiba has never turned away from a challenge, and I don't believe he'd find dueling me now to be very much of one.

[ Even he has to admit that. He's not so prideful so as to think he'd still be at the top of his game if he dueled Kaiba now. ]

[ The blind woman's head lifts as she seemingly senses that Atem's gaze has moved to her. She bows her head respectfully, then a mysterious smile touches her face. She holds a single finger to her lips, then wordlessly steps out of the room. Lunafreya turns to watch the door shut. Interestingly, the room seems to warm ever so slightly once the woman has left. ]

In technicalities, Gentiana acts as a retainer. Just as Yugi-sama's friends do for you. However, she is more of a friend than anything. The first I ever made.

[ She supposes the fact that she remained friendless until the age of eight may seem tragic. She had her elder brother Ravus, but their paths have been different despite running parallel with one another. Lunafreya has known Gentiana her whole life, but it wasn't until that day they truly became friends. Regardless, now is not the time to recount days that had once been. She turns back to Atem and gives a nod. ]

You will need to remove your jacket and shirt so that I might bandage it afterwards. Then, lay on your front... if you so insist on running back into the battlefield so quickly, heika.

[ "No" is not an option she is taking. She gestures to the Millennium Puzzle sitting on the night stand - never out of her eyesight as she has worked. Once he has relented, she takes the jacket and shirt, folding them gently and placing them to the side. ]

I doubt Kaiba-sama believed the danger I said these games would hold until he saw your gods with his own eyes. Living and breathing without the aid of his technology. Although... I do not believe he understands the true scope of danger yet.

[ Perhaps that has changed now that Yugi and Atem are as damaged as they are. She is still amazed that Kaiba relented enough enough let her and Gentiana on board, regardless of noble ties. Maybe part of him knows the danger and any insurance to make sure he has his duel is enough. She mulls the thoughts over as she places her hands together. The gentle glow envelopes them. ]

I must apologize. Had I realized he had a god in his possession, and planned to summon it, I would have been there...

[ Maybe all this could have been avoided. ]

[ He watches Gentiana leave, making a mental note to find time to speak with her at a later time, if she's agreeable. ]

I believe that I understand what you mean when you talk about her. [ His and Yugi's relationship is an interesting one, and it never would have come to be if Yugi hadn't put the Millennium Puzzle together. It did take some time for them to understand each other, but now, Atem considers Yugi one of his closest friends, if not the closest friend that he has. Perhaps his bond with Yugi is slightly different from Luna's with Gentiana, but he supposes there are similarities there as well. ]

All right. [ He sees no reason to protest; clearly, her mind is made up, and her actions are resolute. He does as requested, moving both his shirt and his jacket and then lying down with his back facing her. ]

I'm afraid that I have no other choice. [ Actually, he isn't afraid for himself at all, but he is very afraid for his friends and for the world if he can't do what he must and put a stop to Marik's machinations. ]

If I don't face this danger, then who will? And as for Kaiba, he is blind to both the truth and to the danger that is dogging at our heels. I have tried talking with him, as have others, but he doesn't wish to see what is right in front of him.

[ He sighs. ] I can only hope that the sight of the Egyptian gods themselves is enough to at least begin convincing him that the threat, and the danger, is very real.

[ But then he turns his head as best as he can so he can get a better look at her, knowing he must look very awkward right now. Still, he can take appearing awkward if it means assuring her that she has no reason to apologize. ]

You have nothing to apologize for. It was inevitable that this would happen, and whether you knew of it or not, I'm quite certain that he always intended to summon it.

[ Gentiana would be more than agreeable. He is a Pharaoh. She would be obliged to speak if he so wished it. There are numerous reasons, but, it seems much surrounding Lunafreya is still a mystery. She has wondered how much should be said, and how much should remain a secret. How much does the Pharaoh and Yugi need to know to carry their burdens? She can recall her mother telling her of how an Oracle would need to judge what those around her would know... yet, she finds it is difficult to locate the balance when it comes to the pair now in her care. ]

Gentiana may seem like she is detached from us and gives an icy exterior... but her heart is warm and filled with care once you can see it.

[ Lunafreya closes her eyes and brings her hands to her mouth. A few words words are muttered under her breath. A chant, a prayer? It might really not matter in the end, as the glow focuses into her palms. She takes the last remaining step to be right beside the bed, bending over to down lower her palms to hover over the injury on his back. The light slowly spreads over the injury and she hopes that it feels comforting and dulls the pain. ]

Must it be you to face this danger? [ She asks not to dissuade him, or cause him to question himself. It is merely to see where he stands on seeing his role in destiny and fate. Many try to fight it and to change it. She finds it rare that someone so willingly embraces who and what they are meant to be with such conviction. ] Fear leads people to do many things. Many cannot handle the fact that reality is not what they have crafted it to be in their minds. Kaiba-sama seems as if he would rather deny it to protect what he knows of the world... but I fear that will do more harm than good to those around him.

What do you and Yugi-sama feel upon seeing the gods in flesh and bone?

[ As he turns his head to look at her, he'll see that her eyes have remained closed even as she continues their conversation. A small smile is on her face. While it is her duty to do such things? She truly enjoys aiding those around her -- regardless of knowing them or not. Her smile does falter for but a moment at his words. ]

It was inevitable that you two would take on the ire of a god? [ That is something she doubts very much. Her tone changes then to one tinged in sadness. ] Injuries like these are things that the Oracle is meant to help alleviate - to prevent from happening. My own ignorance of the situation has caused a great deal of suffering. You, Yugi-sama, and your friends are owed an apology. Even if the Oracle cannot stop the nature of Shadow Games? The summoning of the true creatures in those games...

[ Lunafreya finally opens her eyes. They immediately move to catch Atem's. For once the well crafted put together visage and mantle of the Oracle she always seems to bare cracks just a fraction. It is the girl whose heart aches at seeing the damage dealt. ]

Heika, this may not be the time or the place to ask such a thing of you and Yugi-sama, but... I have a request. If you would allow me to ask it.

[ A Pharaoh with limited memories of being one... But even if he did have all his memories intact, he would never use his title or his position to pull rank over anyone else. He still maintains that, at least in this world, he is no different than anyone else, and he certainly isn't more important than anyone. If he and Gentiana were to meet and talk, he would approach that meeting as though they were equals, because in his mind, they are. He would rather approach people on an even footing than to presume anything about his station or his importance. ]

If only because of the words you've already spoken, I can already tell that she possesses a good heart. [ Well, Luna's words speak loudly, but also his own intuition is telling him that Gentiana is someone he would want as an ally.

As Luna works on healing his injuries, he lies as still as possible, not wanting to make things difficult for her, nor to aggravate the still-raw wounds. But he can already tell that the discomfort is leaving, or at least lessening, and that is what counts. ]

I believe that it must be. [ He says in response. ] Yugi and his friends are strong, and they've proved themselves to be more resilient than I could have ever imagined, but I believe that I must face the danger and try to shield them from it as much as I can.

[ He turns his face away from her again just briefly, because on this point, he's a little conflicted. ]

It must seem as though I haven't done a very good job of protecting them, but I can't allow myself to doubt now, not when there is so much on the line.

Fear can be a motivator, a powerful one, but it can also be a reason for inaction. Denial works in similar ways.

[ He falls silent again for a moment, pondering Luna's question. ]

I can imagine that seeing the gods come to life is nothing that Yugi has ever seen or could be prepared for. They are incredibly powerful, incredibly dangerous, and should not be taken lightly.

[ And there is something immensely terrifying about seeing one face-to-face, even for someone like him. He can sympathize with what Yugi must be feeling, especially now that they've sustained an injury from Ra. ]

Perhaps when we are done here, you should speak with Yugi as well.

[ He worries about him more than he lets on, and while he isn't inclined to give way to doubts, he often wonders if he's doing enough as Yugi's partner. ]

I believe that it was inevitable, yes. I spoke at length with Ishizu, the sister of Marik, and if her words can be believed, everything that is transpiring during this tournament is destined to happen: the fulfillment of a prophecy.

[ He turns again as best as he can to look at her. This is the first that he's heard her use that term to refer to herself, and he wonders about its significance. ]

The Oracle- That is you?

[ Her words, and the tone in them, catches his attention. He can't be sure why she is speaking of herself that way, but he has to tell her that this is not her fault nor her doing. ]

I might be misunderstanding, but it seems that you put quite a bit of pressure on yourself for events that are outside your control. [ At least as far as his understanding is concerned. ]

I mean this in the best way, but you do not have a Millennium Item that enables you to see future events before they happen. How could you have known?

[ He frowns in confusion and uncertainty, because despite the fact that his resolve remains mostly unshaken, he is now beginning to question his choices and his next moves.

But for the moment, he focuses on Luna's last words, wondering what request she might have. ]

Of course you may ask it, and I'll do what I can to ensure it is done.

[ While the Nameless Pharaoh may see himself as equals in the modern world, there are those that respect and regard what his title means. No longer is he a god to be worshiped. He more signifies a time long past that the modern world can only dream of truly comprehending. That alone in the minds of many commands and deserves respect. That is how Lunafreya sees it. He was given the mantle and charge of a kingdom. No matter the time that has passed? That remains the case. Gentiana would have her own reasons to see it in a similar light. Those secrets are not Lunafreya's to share.

His brief moment of insecurity did not escape her attention. Her head tilts slightly only to the side. The pair of them seem to say so much while saying so little at the same time to one another. The rest is left to be inferred or interpreted. Most may find that a disjointed way to speak, but it seems to suit them for now. Not that she believes there would be much more than formalities between them.

There's no reason for it.

It is why she has to wonder why it feels natural for her to be bold in her actions. One of her hands moves from his back to rest gently on his arm. Her fingers curl just enough to give a reassuring gesture. ]

I believe that you have done all that you can for the people that are the most precious to you. [ She was not present at the Shadow Game, but she can imagine that with the injury as it is? He and Yugi both were willing to put their lives on the line without fault. No one would take the powers of a god without being willing to face all the consequences - known or unknown. ] If he would like to speak with me, then I will gladly do so. Is there something in particular you would have me talk to him about?

[ Lunafreya blinks in surprise to his question. Ah... perhaps she had left out details when she had given her proper introduction to him, Yugi, and his friends the morning after they met. The surprise, then, is not unwarranted. She stands up properly, the hand that had been on his arm now outstretched to her side. In a flash of almost glittering lights, an ancient Trident appears. The tip echoes heavily as she places it on the hard floor below them. She curtsies deeply then, her free hand curling in front of her as she does. ]

Yes. As my mother was before me, and my grandmother before her, stretching back to the ancient times. My full title would be the Oracle Lady Lunafreya Nox Fleuret. I suppose, now, my comment of knowing which spirits are bound to you, Yugi-sama, and Joey-sama make more sense. [ The smile on her face doesn't quite curl properly. ] It is my duty to balance our worlds and speak on behalf of both to the other. It is my charge to heal and mend those of this world. Perhaps that is why my family was chosen to be the Oracles so long ago. [ Her gaze drops to her free hand, stretching her fingers as the glow intensifies again. ] All members of my family have had the capability to heal -- if they chose to harness that power is of their own choice.

[ She moves the Trident to rest in front of her. ] I may not be able to see the future, or bless someone with a spirit to dwell beside them, heika. Yet, knowing the gods of your homeland are here, I should have acted on the presumption that ones in this tournament of yours would recklessly summon them. What I fear is that they will be summoned beyond a mere Shadow Game... and that they will not be able to be controlled by those who summon them. That is why I am here. [ The sad smile returns to her face. ] Even if all I had intended was reconnecting family ties. It would seem fate has something else in mind. If your gods cannot be controlled and find the one they will listen to? Then it falls to me to ease them and find a way to return them to the realm in which they dwell.

[ It leads easily into her request. She has yet to finish healing his body, but, this is quite obviously meant to take center stage. Both hands curl along the braided work of the Trident then. Lunafreya bows, her mid-length blond hair free of its usual style falls over her shoulders. ]

I would ask that you teach me this game. I still have no intention of playing it, but, if I am to commune with your gods... I must understand the battlefield as it is played now. So that no one must feel the need to face any of these gods alone. I will be there to help protect any that I can.

Edited (cause i forgot words at 4am) 2021-05-26 23:14 (UTC)

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first 800 word tag. hell yeah!

word count: 18,038