Κα΄Ι’Ιͺ α΄α΄α΄α΄α΄ βζ¦θ€ιζ―β (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
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synthneon2021-06-01 12:07 am
inheritedpuzzle) wrote in synthneon2021-06-01 12:07 am
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YGO PSL | β if i told you that you're not alone, and i show you this is where you belong. β
INSOMNIA REDUX
( continued from here. you wouldn't believe how hard it is to find gifs of yugi and atem together and it's heartbreaking. it's all SHIPPING FANART. )
[ For Yugi, Lunafreya is an intimidating person. Not because she's cruel or throws around her power like the bullies in school did. It's more along the lines of how Atem is intimidating. Both can firmly put their feet on the ground and stand against any storm. He's the one that stands behind them and cheers them on. Is someone like that really worth bothering her when it comes to his wounds? It's a stupid thought, and he knows it, which is why he hasn't voiced it to his other self. ]
I'm pretty sure that if you asked she'd make the time too. You're the one that met her first!
[ He has no problem with it. He just wonders what it was that drove Atem out for a walk that night. ]
Maybe we should both ask her?
[ That makes things less intimidating. For some reason he can stare down gods, Shadow Games, and help fight the darkness in hearts, but this is difficult. He supposes it's because, deep down, he feels as if he should have been able to carry it for Atem. Now he needs to rely on someone else for it. When is he going to be able to do something without needing someone else to catch him? Maybe that's just the kind of person he is and he'll never be able to grow out of it. ]
There has to be somewhere we can start looking...
[ Atem already went to the exhibit with TΓ©a, so that feels like it is off the table. Yugi can't even begin to think of how to get back in touch with the Tomb Keepers. Shadi has disappeared without a trace -- no one has even really heard from Pegasus. He sighs and looks over at the Millennium Puzzle hanging off the side of the headboard.
Because, where else is a teenager going to place his ancient mystical item?
He turns properly to look at the Pharaoh. They've talked so frequently that he doesn't even see him as a ghost. Atem is there and real as he would be in flesh and blood to Yugi. It doesn't matter if they talk like this, or if Yugi is the displaced one, or if it's in one of their soul rooms. There's a frown on his face now and a sigh in his expression. ]
But, you're not really a part of me... are you? [ Maybe it's time to talk about this properly. ] Not like we thought at first. You're someone that had his own life. You ruled over people and armies! You might have even built temples or the pyramids. I want you to stay here with us. That means you get a say in what we do from this point on, Other Me.
[ Because there is this nagging feeling deep down that one day Atem is going to want to leave. Yugi has no idea when it will be, or what will cause it, but it's a sense deep in his heart. One morning, the Pharaoh will just want to return to wherever he was supposed to go instead of being trapped inside the Millennium Puzzle. He's been trying to brace himself and prepare himself for that day and wear a brave face like the Pharaoh does. It's... he just can't.
What he can do is read anything he can find on Ancient Egypt. He'll dig wherever he can to see if it triggers something in the memories of his brother figure. If that fails? Then, he can help him make more new memories. ]
As long as you want to stay here with all of us.
are you sure that you want this guy around your dishes? Sounds like a recipe for disaster
But where he is a strong force of will and determination, Luna is both of those qualities with the added benefit of having a deep well of empathy for others, something Atem's been told that he lacks. And, he wouldn't deny it either, if confronted with it. ]
Yes, that's true, Yugi, but that doesn't mean I have more right to speak with her or anything even close to that. She wants to help people if she can, and if there is anything worrying or troubling you, I am certain that she would want to help.
[ He does raise an eyebrow at that suggestion that they both ask her. ]
I suppose that we could do that, yes. [ There's no reason that they can't, after all.
And if he knew about the kind of thoughts that were going through Yugi's mind, he would do his best to dispel them, to allay his worries, because he has always thought highly of his young friend.
He is strong, regardless of what he thinks about himself and what he should be doing for the older spirit. ]
There may very well be clues somewhere around here, but I wouldn't know where to begin.
[ That is, where he could go that he hasn't already been. His gaze also travels over to the Puzzle's resting place. The item is important, and it's what brought them together, so of course it's of incredible significance to both of them.
When Yugi resumes speaking again, Atem merely crosses his arms in front of him and tries to process the words that Yugi is saying. ]
In the strictest sense of the word, I suppose not. But there are so many things that I don't know and don't remember, and until I do, who am I? What am I here for?
[ He shakes his head. ]
If my task at this time is to continue being here for you, then of course I will do what is expected of me.
[ And then as if his own thoughts are mirroring Yugi's, he adds: ]
Perhaps one day, our arrangement will change. But until then, even if it never comes, I am glad to remain here with you and our friends.
[ And then he's just going to smile encouragingly at Yugi, because somehow, he senses that's what he needs most right now: encouragement and the idea that he intends to be with him for a long, long time yet. ]
time to learn how to be gentle, other me -- if you lose the bet :|
Or, at least, be able to stand with the Pharaoh that he admires so much. His other self, his brother figure, his hero. ]
It does mean you know her more than I do!
[ Honestly, the Pharaoh can't be really this blind to it -- right? Even Yugi can tell there is an attraction between the two. It might just be friendly... something like two similar souls crossing paths. Or, it might be more. Maybe. Part of him almost hopes it is more. Atem needs more experiences in his second life; something outside of just dueling and living life along side him. ]
I think I saved her number. We can text her in the morning.
[ He says this as if it is the most normal thing in the universe: having the phone number of the Oracle. Yugi doesn't see Lunafreya as any different from them. She is someone who needs friends and can understand their insane adventures through this world filled with magic.
Yugi goes quiet as he listens closely to what Atem says. Clues, questions about his existence, his purpose. What would Atem do if something ever happened to him? Will he simply just reside in the Puzzle and wait for someone else? Yugi looks down at the bed as the thoughts roll over in his mind. What would he want Atem to do? The only word that comes to mind is live. He'd be fine if his other half took his body and had a full life.
How would you ever share that with someone without it sounding like a wish for your will?
He looks back up at Atem once he speaks again. Our friends. That makes him smile, even as he rubs at the corner of his eyes. ]
If you need a name, or memories? You can have mine. Even if we find out who you were? You can still use mine.
[ He knows he's stated that he'd give all his memories to his other half--but now there's a strength behind his words. Atem might not take the offer up now, but the door will always be open for that. There is a possibility he may never remember. It isn't a possibility Yugi likes to think of... but he needs to consider that at least.
The smile gives him enough encouragement to push himself off the bed. He moves to the desk, pulling out the laptop. Half-charge is a start for now. Without any explanation he sits back down on the bed beside Atem and wakes it from sleep mode. Right, internet browser, search engine... ]
How long do you think it's been since you ruled in Egypt, Other Me?
that's a harder task than you'd think, partner. I suppose I should hope I don't lose, then
Yugi's exclamation causes him to pause; does he really know Luna that well? Perhaps he knows her better than Yugi does, but he's still getting to know her and how she thinks and feels. And regardless of what spark may or may not exist between them, he would be the first to admit that he doesn't know what he should do about it, if anything.
He might desire to get to know her more, to learn about her likes and dislikes and her hopes for the future, but does he have the right to ask for those things? He can't be sure, and therefore, he's refrained from doing or saying anything too forward. ]
You're going to do what? [ He's still getting used to such notions as using a powered device to contact someone else. In his mind, methods of communication include letter writing. He still finds himself surprised that people can send messages to each other in just seconds, and that they can speak with each other on the phone even when they're thousands of miles away.
If something ever happened to Yugi, of course Atem would be at a loss. He would mourn and then he would go back into the Puzzle, because what else would he be able to do? He fervently hopes that no such separation ever happens, because the two of them have developed quite the bond, and if it were to ever break, it would be a tremendous loss.
He can't help but give Yugi a look of surprise when he so freely offers his name and his memories to him. ]
Yugi- That is quite the offer to make, and yet... [ He pauses for a moment, but then he looks at his partner with a warm smile. ] I'm very grateful for your kindness.
[ Kindness that he's still learning how to show to others in return. Yugi isn't the only one who has a lot to learn. Atem knows he has much to learn about being kind and good, just like Yugi is.
But as the conversation turns back to Egypt and Atem's past, his expression sobers again. He lets out a long sigh and crosses his arms. ]
I can't be sure, but it must have been a very long time ago now.
[ He turns slightly so he can see the calendar that hangs on the wall, noting the year that's printed there. ]
What I do know is that the world has changed so much that I can't understand how you navigate it with such ease.
[ If he didn't have the help of Yugi and their friends, he'd feel even more displaced than he already does at certain moments. And as if to prove that, he watches Yugi opening up his computer with a halfway bemused expression. He can't help but marvel at the ease with which Yugi uses such devices. ]
What are you doing now? [ He's seen him use the laptop before, of course, but still, it's all a mystery to him. ]
guess you need to lose this one then to learn how to huh! >:| come at me
Still, Yugi considers her a friend, and one that they should both know better. Especially if their grandparents were as close as his Grandpa implied. Which makes him wonder why his Grandpa never mentioned it until now. Their passing must have been hard -- especially being so far away. Come to think of it, Yugi isn't even sure when his Grandpa last left Japan.
His gaze drops to the keys on the laptop in front of him. ]
... I never really noticed. [ He doesn't realize he's said that out loud as it's a thought to himself. He'd been so wrapped up in his own struggles and hardships that he hadn't considered what him staying with his Grandpa cost the older man.
He wished on the Millennium Puzzle to have a friend--someone that would understand and he'd be able to talk to. Of course, he didn't really think it'd happen, or it would be a spirit inside the ancient item. Maybe destiny really has always been at hand.
He snaps from his thoughts once Atem asks his question. ]
Huh? What--[ then, he pauses, and just looks at his best friend. Yugi blinks again in something that's mixture of surprise and sudden realization. He just presumed Atem had all the knowledge he did about the world and everything. Then again, they always presumed Atem was an alter ego and not someone else entirely. ] Oh. Uh, texting. You know how we all have the conversations on the phone in text? [ He points to the phone on the charger, as if Atem can physically grab the device and look at it. ] Luna gave us her number if we or Grandpa ever needed anything. I can just send her a message asking when she can see us.
[ Why does this suddenly feel really awkward?
Still, he smiles at Atem. He has no problem sharing his name or memories. After all, they've done so much together. Why not continue to share what they already have?
It is a little disheartening to hear that answer. Maybe Yugi needs to go to the exhibit himself and see if he can find out how old that tablet is. ]
I've grown up in the world like this. It's all I've ever known. [ He points at the laptop screen. ] It'll be like a library you can access instantly. If we can't get more information from Ishizu, then we can at least start here.
[ Yugi types a few simple words into the search engine: ε€δ»£γ¨γΈγγ and several links show up. He takes a moment to look at a few before selecting one that brings up a page filled with text. ]
If I remember right, Egypt stopped being it's own kingdom when Rome took control...? [ He's not sure if that's right, but , he does glance up at Atem. It feels like he should say it with a level of respect, reverence, and sensitivity. It's ancient history to Yugi -- but his friend was born there, lived there, and well... does Atem even have a mummy? ] So, maybe we should start looking for pictures of things that might look familiar?
well, we shall see. that challenge is extended to you as well, of course
Perhaps when all this is over, there will be time for a sit-down with her, a chance to talk at length and get to know her and her background in more detail. Or at least, in as much detail as she's comfortable talking about.
Meanwhile, Atem just sits there watching Yugi, sensing that a storm of thoughts is brewing in his mind. He's always known that Yugi is very thoughtful, both in terms of how he treats people and in how much time he spends thinking, contemplating, and trying to process the various twists and turns of his life. If only more people were like Yugi: content to slow down when needed and to really think things through. ]
Oh, I see. It's something like writing a letter, but it's on that object rather than on paper. [ And it seems to take no time at all, whereas letter writing can take quite some time.
Part of him feels as though they shouldn't trouble Luna, who he suspects is most likely quite busy, but he would also be lying to himself if he said he didn't want to hear from her and to see her again. ]
I must admit that I'm curious to see what this search of yours will reveal, Yugi.
[ He glances at the screen as words appear on it. It feels strange to admit, even to himself, that Yugi has more knowledge of Egypt than he does, but for the moment, that can't be changed. ]
I suppose that it's a place to start. [ And at the mention of pictures, he unconsciously leans forward, closer to the computer screen, as if being eager to see images of a place he can no longer remember. ]
i have years of dish washing on my side! you're at a disadvantage for once!
Luna though... Yugi feels there are parts of a conversation that all three of them should be present for. At least, for the parts that relate to the three of them. He wouldn't intrude on time he felt that should be set aside for the two of them.
He frowns. ]
Grandpa never mentioned any friends in England before. [ Yugi looks up at Atem. ] He never mentioned anything beyond the card shop, or Mom and Dad. Or... if he did I never listened. And, if he really was that close with Luna's grandparents... he wasn't able to go to the funeral... because he was taking care of me.
[ There's a sense of guilt in his tone then. Maybe if he had been just a bit more aware, they could have gone. Then again, would he or Atem have met Luna? It's a complicated situation and no scenario really seems to make him feel better about any of it.
Regardless of the storm of thoughts in his own head, he nods. ] Yeah--I'll show you when I send Luna the message.
[ It's probably a good idea to show him how to do it. Just in case he ever needs to contact their friends. ]
There's a lot to look at. We didn't learn too much about it in school, since it's Western history, but...
[ Yugi looks back at the keyboard as he tries to figure out where to start. He doesn't know too many places in Egypt. Just the names of the two most famous Pharaohs. So, after a moment of tapping his finger idly on a key, he sets to work on the next word: γ―γ¬γͺγγγ©. Then, he switches to the image search. ]
Cleopatra was the last Pharaoh. [ He shifts backwards on the bed to rest the laptop more comfortably. Not only that, he turns so he can sit at an angle that way it'll give Atem a better look at the screen. He pulls up an image of a statue that looks ... something like he'd think of with Ancient Egypt. Then, a few more clicks and he pulls up another page of information. ] It looks like Alexandria was the capital city then... and she was Greek? Or maybe part Greek...
[ Huh. ]
She died in 30 BC. That was two thousand years ago.
So it would seem. I have to admit, I wouldn't know where to begin with something like that either.
Of course, he knows that Yugi insists he wouldn't change any of this for anything, but he still can't help but wonder if he wants a life that's a little quieter, less fast-paced.
But for the moment, he's in no hurry to rush this time with just himself and his partner. The moments they have together are rare and hard to come by, so he intends to enjoy this one for as long as they can make it last. Or for as long as Yugi wants it to continue.
And as he listens to Yugi laying his thoughts out there, he wonders if perhaps he blames himself for his grandfather not going to the funeral or for not speaking more about his past. Somehow, he doubts that is the case. He can hardly claim to know Yugi's grandfather well at all, but he doesn't seem like the kind of man who would just lay blame or hold resentment for anything like that. Still, he views Solomon Muto as someone who operates with the best interests of others in mind, putting them before himself, so in that way, he wouldn't be surprised if it turned out that he prioritized taking care of Yugi over even something like a funeral. ]
I don't think it's your fault, Yugi. I believe that your grandfather knew what he was doing, and when he made his decisions, it was after much thought and deliberation. Besides, could it be possible that he kept up communication with those friends?
[ It seems more than possible to him, what with all these new modern ways of reaching out to other people. ]
Cleopatra. [ He says that name slowly, as if testing the pronunciation and to see if any memories associated with it surface. Nothing comes, of course, but he honestly didn't really expect that it would. While Yugi continues looking, he watches the screen closely, noting the images with interest. ]
I wish that I knew what the name of the capital city was when I was there.
[ These names sound like ones that he should know, but try as he might to remember, nothing is coming to him. He peers closer at the statue of Cleopatra, wondering what her life and her reign was like, and what brought it to an end.
A ripple of frustration runs through him, because he can see these names and these facts, but none of it means anything to him or jogs his memory, but he tries to keep that pushed down. Yugi is trying to help, and he doesn't want him to think it isn't enough. ]
Does it say anything more about her life?
Then Yugi threw dishbubbles at an ancient Pharaoh's face
Yugi knows his Grandpa would never blame him for any of it. Still, there's that level of guilt that hangs at the back of his mind. If he was as close to Luna's grandparents as he is to Rebecca's grandfather... not being there must have been hard. ]
I don't know if he did or not. He had always said he got the Puzzle from Egypt, but never how or what led him there. I always figured he was joking about it... though it's obvious he wasn't. [ Though, from what Luna implied, his Grandpa had helped excavate the Pharaoh's tomb and found it there. ] I think he was just as surprised to see Luna as I was.
[ Yugi watches Atem's face closely as he says the name. Damn. Nothing seems to be familiar about that? It would make sense in a way. If she was the last Pharaoh, then, Atem had to be sometime before her. Just how far back though? Egypt was one of the oldest civilizations on Earth. He frowns slightly and looks back at the page at the question. There is a brief moment as he looks over the information before he answers. ]
She became Pharaoh after taking the throne from her brother.... they originally ruled together, but then a civil war broke out between them. [ He shakes his head -- that's not the best news to give to his best friend. ] Her brother died in a battle and then she was named Pharaoh by Julius Caesar--Oh, he was the Roman Emperor at the time and helped her win the war...
[ He scrolls a bit further down past all the classical paintings and depictions of thee female Pharaoh. Yugi goes quiet then. Is this something he should really tell his other self? It's the death of his kingdom. Maybe it's better Atem hears it from him than someone else? He sighs and looks back at his frown. ]
She got involved in a lot of the politics of Rome. [ Most which go straight over his head. ] Caesar was assassinated and then she got caught up in their civil war. The person she backed died, and instead of being apart of the victory ceremony of the other man, she killed herself. Egypt became a Roman state after that...
[ Yugi turns the laptop a bit more so Atem can see the modern Alexandria. There's an apologetic look on his face. ]
There was an earthquake that sank the part of Alexandria she ruled from. So, we couldn't even go to the ruins of her palace.
I'm sorry, Other Me.
sputter sputter Yugi what did you just do?! /there's a soap bubble on his nose, thanks for that
Well, maybe when the two of you have some time, you could ask him about it. I'm sure that if he knew you had questions, he would try and answer them.
[ Yugi's grandfather has always seemed like a polite sort of person, and of course, it's clear that he cares a lot about Yugi. So it's easy for Atem to imagine that he wouldn't mind answering his questions.
But then Yugi resumes reading off the information about Cleopatra and what happened to her, and Atem falls silent so he can listen properly. When Yugi goes quiet in turn, he glances at him, eyebrows raised. ]
Is something the matter? [ But then he continues, and he just resumes listening as Yugi reads. ]
She killed herself? [ He frowns at that, not because he doesn't understand, but because he's already put it together: if she was the last Pharaoh, then that means the ruling line came to an end with her death, and so did the kingdom.
He looks at the picture of modern Alexandria, and then he folds his hands together with a sigh. Whatever he was expecting to learn from this search, that wasn't it.
But he realizes that Yugi is still looking at him, and he straightens himself up, his customary neutral expression falling back into place. ]
It isn't your fault, Yugi. You couldn't have known.
[ Neither could he, but for reasons he doesn't quite understand, the revelation that the last Pharaoh died and the kingdom came to an end has shocked him more than he'd expected it would. ]
i won :D swap and do the dishes
He probably would. I just don't know how to ask.
[ Bringing up the subject of dead friends seems like digging at a wound. It isn't necessarily awkward, but, he doesn't know the best way to go about it. Just like he has no idea how to go about really talking to his other self about his country of origin. Even two thousand years ago is ancient history -- things to be talked about in the past tense.
But, how long ago does that feel to Atem? ]
... Yeah. I guess she'd rather take control of the situation then be shown off as a conquered monarch. [ Still, he imagines that must not come off as the best way for a fellow king to pass away. Maybe old age, or battle, or even illness would have been better.
There's more to it, but, Yugi doesn't want to share it. Cleopatra's heir was killed just two weeks later. That is really the end of the line of Pharaohs, but, the heir was never properly crowned. Which means everything else about that civilization just... slowly died off.
He watches his best friend go through the emotions. Sometimes he wishes Atem wouldn't fall back into the dignified role of a Pharaoh around him. But, can he really help that? It might just be so ingrained him that he can't help it. ]
You had to be Pharaoh before her though. We just need to figure out when that could of been. [ Because, he's determined not to leave it on a sour note. The whole situation is sad, but, that doesn't mean that what happened to Cleopatra is the end of their journey.
He clicks back to the search engine and types the next name. It takes a few times, because the name is even more exotic than Cleopatra's. Though, once he's sure he has the spelling right, he puts the name in: γγΏγ³γ«γΌγ‘γ³. Instantly the search brings up a brilliant golden death mask. ]
I think he's even more famous than Cleopatra. [ Yugi points to the mask. Of course he knows a little of it, but, he can't imagine it's easy for Atem to see his heritage and culture on display behind glass or in pictures. ] King Tutankhamun--[ his face scrunches up as he knows he's said that wrong, ]--and they've shown him around museums everywhere.
[ He clicks on a link before looking everything over. It matches more or less with what he's heard of in the past. ]
They called him "The Boy Pharaoh." He was only nineteen when he died.[ which sends a shiver up his spine. That's only three years older than him. ] But, that's not why he's famous.
hold on, how did I lose? .... Hmph. I guess you win this time.
But when one's soul is on the line, he'd rather place himself in harm's way rather than see anything of that nature happen to his friend. ]
When you feel that the time is right, and you're ready to ask, the words will come to you. I'm sure of it.
[ Yugi may be young, but he has his own brand of wisdom to go along with that core of strength. And of course, as his friend and partner, Atem has full confidence in him and his ability to discern when the right time to ask his questions is.
As to the subject of time periods, he's finding it difficult to know how he should feel. He has heard, as they both have, that around 3000 years ago, he was the ruler of Egypt. And then if what they've found online can be believed, Cleopatra died 2000 years ago. Trying to tease out the significance of all this only makes his head begin to hurt, so for the moment, he puts aside the dates and times and just focuses back on Yugi and the information he's finding. ]
I understand. She had to make a hard choice, a choice that I'm sure she didn't want to make. [ Part of him respects the decision she made, to put an end to things on her own terms, but another part of him wishes that she could have gone to her rest naturally, or perhaps even having a brave death in battle.
That brave face that he wears so easily just seems to slip into place of its own accord, born out of a habitual need to mask his true feelings, as befitting of a king. Never mind that this former king has no recollection of being one, but the past is not so easily shaken off, apparently. ]
Is that something that we can figure out? All we have is a vague number from the past, not even an actual date. I don't mean to dismiss the thought, because I would like to learn that, if possible, but-
[ From what he can tell, with the limited information they have, that doesn't seem very possible to him.
But he decides to leave the twists and turns of that for another time, because now Yugi's looking up another Pharaoh, and Atem can't help but snap to attention when he sees that golden mask appear on the screen.
Is it strange to see relics from his past featured so plainly? Yes. It's even stranger to think that countless numbers of people pay to see these ancient items, whether out of idle curiosity or genuine interest. It's a thought that he doesn't quite know what to do with. ]
The Boy Pharaoh. [ He muses over that title, and the Pharaoh's name, but as with Cleopatra, there's no familiarity or recognition. ]
So what is it that makes him famous?
>:D YESSSS finally
The words are encouraging enough to make the teenager smile just a bit. He knows that, ultimately, the conversation will come up when it's time. That seems to be how everything in his life operates now. Destiny throws things at him on a curve ball at will and all he can do is go along with it. Well -- fine. If that is how it's going to be? Then he'll do it. ]
I wonder if she realized that it would mean the end of her kingdom too?
[ He doesn't know enough about Rome to really know if Egypt would of existed outside of Rome even with a Pharaoh. It seems far more complex than he really first expected. Maybe that's just how it is for kings and queens. It isn't just about their kingdom, but the kingdoms around them. ]
Vague numbers can at least point us in the right direction! If it can show us something that might look familiar to you, it'll narrow it down. [ At least that is the idea he is going with and he isn't backing down. Not until every option has been exhausted. ]
Uhm, well, it isn't so much what he did as Pharaoh... [ Yugi scrolls down to point to the black and white photographs. ] It's more what they found.
[ He pauses then, thinking maybe he should explain what he does know of archeology. Which is really a small textbook amount. ]
Archeologists will try to dig through mountains, the ground, anything they can to learn about the way people lived thousands of years ago. Not everything survived all the wars and way nations have changed. So, at some point, they started to try and find old temples, palaces, and tombs to understand the Ancient Egyptians. [ Yugi nods to the screen. ] I don't know much yet, but, Tutankhamun was one of the few Pharaohs they found with an undisturbed tomb. All his personal items, funeral items, mummy... it was all untouched and perfectly preserved. It somehow made it through centuries of grave robbers and was never found.
[ He points to another picture. ]
I don't know when or why, but, they stopped burring Pharaohs inside pyramids and moved them into the Valley of the Kings. That's where they found Tutankhamun's tomb.
[ Yugi pauses then, waiting to see if any of it sounds familiar to Atem. Maybe not the name of the Pharaoh, but the pictures? He had a tomb -- didn't he? Somewhere? So, maybe some of the items they found inside the Pharaoh's tomb would look familiar. The gods, the way the hieroglyphs were, or even a chair. It seems like a grasp at straws, but, anything is better than nothing. ]
yes, yes, enjoy it, Yugi.
When Yugi smiles, Atem's own smile grows wider. He wants to see Yugi be happy, and wishes he didn't have to carry the worries that he does because of their involvement with this card game and the often unexpected dangers it brings along. But he supposes that one can't have a life that's worth living and not have a little bit of danger. ]
I wonder... I suppose that in a way, she might have, and if it all had to end, at least she could make sure it ended on her terms. If I were in her position, I might have done the same, however hard it would be to make that choice.
[ He's not overly pleased to learn that the kingdom ended, even if he can't remember living there, much less being its Pharaoh at one time. But to go on living in thrall to another? He doesn't think he could do it, so he thinks he understands Cleopatra's choice. ]
Yugi, I appreciate your determination, but nothing may come of this search. [ He doesn't wish to dissuade him entirely, but how are they supposed to find anything of significance when neither of them have anything concrete to go off of?
His train of thought is momentarily distracted as Yugi launches into an explanation about what he knows about archaeology and how it relates to Tutankhamun. ]
I see. [ He taps a finger against his chin a few times while pondering the implications of all this. He supposes that on one hand, he can understand why archaeologists would want to try and learn anything they could about the past and its history. Isn't that what they're trying to do now? Not with shovels, of course, but with Yugi's computer.
He looks at the pictures that Yugi points out, peering closely to examine every detail that he can see. The notion of grave robbers makes him frown, but at least this particular Pharaoh's tomb remained untouched until the researchers found it. ]
I can't help but wonder why they decided to make that change. [ He still has no memory of his past life, so of course, there's no reason why anything should spark recognition in his mind, but something about the Valley of the Kings resonates with him, without him really knowing why. It most likely is nothing, but he finds himself drawn to the picture on the screen. ]
I- [ He cuts himself off before he gets too far, trailing off into silence again, because surely the thought that's come to mind is a far-fetched one at best. Yugi mentioned grave robbers before, so he supposes it's fairly likely that if he did have one, it's been ransacked by now. Not that he'd know enough to identify it as his. ]
oh, i'm gonna, and you're gonna have fun figuring out how to do the dishes for a week. no cheating!
That might be cheating if you squint. ]
Nothing might come out of it, but we have to try something. [ There's a lot more than something though. He's going to try every single idea he can think of. Maybe if they could figure out why Atem's memories were sealed to start with... that is something they may never know though. So, start with the easiest solutions. ] I don't know a lot of Western history, but, we can learn together.
[ It's nice to have something between the two of them other than dueling. Not that dueling is an issue. Just the fact there is something they can share beyond that is comforting in a way. ]
What is it?
I- don't see that there's much to figure out. I'll just switch with you when it's time.
And try not to break anything.Yugi's schemes are never crazy, not in Atem's mind. There's always thought behind every card that he picks, and it's almost as though he can see the threads of Yugi's strategies unfolding with each one.
Perhaps it is a bit like cheating, but isn't their arrangement and their partnership a little unusual? He can't imagine any Duel Monsters officials would know what to put in their rule books if they were aware of what goes on between himself and Yugi. ]
Well, as long as you're willing, then I am too. But I hope you won't exhaust yourself just because of me. [ It seems that he can't quite ever manage to turn off the concern he has for Yugi, but he wouldn't want to even if he could. ]
Learning alongside you would be good, yes. [ He's thinking along similar lines as Yugi is, because dueling has always been something that bonds them, but he agrees: it will be nice to have something else that they can share. ]
I was only wondering if somewhere, whether in that valley or elsewhere, my tomb can still be found.
[ He imagines that it's unlikely, and that thinking otherwise is foolishness. ]
have fun with sponges and garbage disposals! :D
The mental image of Atem doing dishes is killing mePart of him wishes there is a way to duel his other self. Not to beat him, or to prove something to him. Just for fun. They've always made strategies together based off what cards they think work best together, their favorites, synergies, and even what they think their biggest rivals might play. It'd be fun just to play a game with him with no stakes or no needing to save the world.
Like brothers do. ]
I'll be fine. Really, Other Me.
[ He understands and appreciates the worry that Atem has for him. But, there has to be a time where he steps up and does something for the spirit of the Millennium Puzzle. Even if it is something as small as reading historical pages on the internet.
Yugi blinks once, then twice. His Grandpa never mentioned where he found the Millennium Puzzle -- only that he won it after Shadow Games and proved himself to Luna's grandfather. ]
We should ask Grandpa.
..... sponges I can manage, but garbage disposals??
same. 100% sameA duel between the two of them would be one of the greatest moments of Atem's life, if he's being completely honest. The fact that it wouldn't be a test of either of their strengths, with nothing dire or life-altering on the line, but something done just for fun makes that an incredibly appealing idea. If there was a way for them to do that, Atem would certainly jump at the chance.
He'd argue that there's never been brothers quite like the two of them. The bond they share is something special, something rare, and he wouldn't pass it up for anything in either this world or the world he came from. ]
Of course you will, but that won't stop me from worrying.
[ He knows he doesn't need to say that; his actions speak clearly enough on that subject on their own, but he wants Yugi to hear it anyway. ]
Now I'm not sure if we should.
[ He would like to know the answer to his question, but he'd also hate to trouble Yugi's grandfather with it. And what if he doesn't have the answer?
It's a silly question anyway, something only a sentimental fool would ask. Logically, Atem knows that the chances of his tomb being there and still in its original condition are quite low indeed. But even with all of that, there's a part of him that still wonders and longs to know, or even to see photographs of it, just like the pictures they've already seen thus far. ]
After all, there are other more important things we should be focusing on.
[ Yes, in the end, Atem still believes that other things must come first, even before searches such as the one they're conducting together. ]
have fun :D :D :D
/date night dishes thread nowMaybe they can find a way to do it. There has to be some way that someone can help communicate if the two of them wanted to do something like it. Or, there's always video games! It might not be the same as playing against one another, but, he has a few that he could share with Atem. There's enough winnings from Battle City that they could even buy a new system... that's a thought.
He'll have to as Joey and Tristan what games they recommend.
A playful remark is about to leave him when Atem turns the idea down. He frowns, his eyebrows turning upwards at it. What other things do they have that are more important now? They have the God Cards, and they can find a way to restore Atem's memories. In Yugi's mind, that's the most important thing.
After all, what earth shattering thing could happen next?
Still, with that far away look in the eyes of his other half... Yugi decides it might be best to let the subject rest for now. Maybe it'd be better to bring a lighter tone back to the conversation. And, well, he can't help but be curious about one little thing... ]
More important things. [ Yugi tilts his head back and pretends to think about it. Then, he leans slightly towards Atem with a mischievous look glinting in his eyes. ] Like... going on another date with Luna?
[ He says 'another' because really, what else would their first meeting be? Late night drinks together, long conversations? That sort of sounds like a blind date to him. ]
no, I don't think I'll have fun at all. >:(
totally going on the list of thread ideasIf nothing else, at least Atem could watch Yugi play video games and be astonished by the sight of it. Dueling arenas and duel disks might be impressive on their own, but video games are a whole other story.
And he doesn't mean to be discouraging any more than he wants to make Yugi think that he doesn't want to ask Solomon what he knows. There's a small part of him that's afraid of what they might learn, and while there's very little in either world that he's afraid of, even he has to admit that he's a little apprehensive.
So, he's just going to fall back on the idea that there are other important priorities that they need to pursue first, and then maybe they can revisit this one. ]
No, that- That wasn't entirely what I had in mind. [ He doesn't often look abashed, and Yugi may not be able to tell because of Atem's ghostly appearance, but there's a hint of red creeping up his neck. ]
Yugi, wouldn't you like to do something else besides dueling in tournaments and going from one dangerous encounter to the next?
[ He won't fault his partner at all if he answers that question with a yes. Atem can easily imagine that his own life as Pharaoh was one that was filled with danger, but that doesn't have to be the case for Yugi. ]
:'D /goes to nap bye
/makes big piles of thoseOf course it isn't what he had in mind. Yugi's more aware than anyone that Atem focuses on the road in front of them. He calculates their next steps, tries to assess the future danger. Yugi wonders how much that is from being a Pharaoh... and how much of that is who Atem always has been. It's hard to say without memories, but, Yugi likes to think that more of Atem's mannerisms and who he is are a part of who he really is.
The playful look leaves his face as he looks down. Do something else other than the life he's known since he put the Puzzle together? Of course. There are tons of things he wants to do, but they all revolve around his friends -- including Atem. How can he put that without it coming off horribly wrong?
Especially when it comes to TΓ©a.
He knows that she said she's fine with him being him, and not his other self, but he also knows how she looks at Atem. He knows there has been a draw, and he namely keeps quiet about it. What could he say - that he's jealous? No, not really. Yugi has always been the small one to protect and care for... she even does it to a degree. There can't be much that's attractive about that. Even if he'd like to go on a date with her and try to see if she could really separate him and Atem. He also just knows it's a bit pointless. People's hearts do what they do.
That's why he tries to encourage Atem to listen to his own heart. Maybe that's harder for a Pharaoh to do. Maybe it's because Atem's soul room is endless doors and stairs everywhere. Or, maybe, Atem is holding back because of him. That's the last thing that Yugi wants. He knows things are limited, and there is only so much that can happen, but he doesn't want Atem to feel as if he can't have something outside the two of them.
His fingers brisk the top of the keyboard. ]
There's plenty I want to do. [ He frowns. ] Grandpa said that being the owner of the Millennium Puzzle means constantly tried, didn't he? That means, to some degree, that's how my life is going to be. It'll be one thing after another and I need to learn how to shoulder that.
[ It's something Battle City taught him.
Yugi finally looks back up at Atem. ] You need to be honest too, Other Me. Not just to me but to yourself. There's things you want to do outside of dueling and wondering what is going to happen to us next.
[ Maybe he shouldn't say it -- maybe it does need to be said. If anything, Atem will at least know where Yugi stands on the subject. Even if he doesn't get an answer about it all tonight? It might be something that Atem thinks over at least. ]
Everyone might think I don't notice things because I'm quiet when you're out, but, I do. I notice more than any of you realize. I know that TΓ©a likes you. I've known her most my life, and she's never seen me the way she sees you. It's why I left the two of you alone that day for a date. I figured that it might help you when you have no memories, and it would give TΓ©a time with the person she sees as more than a childhood friend. [ It stings to admit it out loud... but there it is. He's not jealous, he's not mad. There's a tone of acceptance in his voice. ] But... I see how you look at Luna. Maybe you don't realize it, or don't want to, but you look at her the same way. You like her, and I think she likes you too.
So, be honest about it. If you want to talk to her more, or see her more? I don't mind. [ The smiles doesn't quite reach the corners of his mouth, but he's very serious. ] You should go after it if that's what you really want. There's something else besides dueling in tournaments and the next encounter - right?
huff. fine >:( >:(
Being the Oracle carries responsibility with it, and as such, it isn't difficult for him to imagine that she doesn't often have time for other pursuits such as going on dates. Perhaps she even has someone else that she's interested in, someone who isn't a spirit without form most of the time who also has no memories of who he truly is. Either way, it isn't difficult for Atem to convince himself that he and Lunafreya are on very different paths in their respective lives. ]
Neither you or your grandfather are wrong, of course. It's best for you to be prepared for whatever might come, as much as you can. But- [ He knows how this will sound, and that Yugi will most likely tell him he should follow his own advice. ]
You are still young, and you should be able to enjoy living and spending time with your friends. [ From Atem's perspective, his time for that has long since passed, but Yugi is still in the prime of life.
But he nods slowly, because Yugi isn't wrong there either. ]
I admit that there are times when I find myself thinking of other things I would like to experience, but I believe that I am here to support you during duels, of course, but outside of them as well.
[ Perhaps he was too forward when he took control of Yugi's body and went for that walk that led to his meeting Lunafreya. It didn't occur to him until well after that meeting that perhaps he'd been a bit selfish in doing so.
But he pauses that train of thought and focuses back in on Yugi. ]
I suppose you're not wrong about TΓ©a, but don't you think that if the two of you spent some time together, you might learn more about each other and attraction might begin to grow? [ He's hardly one to speak on this subject, but he can also see that Yugi likes TΓ©a as well, and perhaps that day that he set the two of them up on a date was a hard day for him indeed. Sometimes Atem wishes he were even half as selfless as his other half, because more often than not, he puts him to shame. ]
What would happen if I simply stayed inside the Puzzle for a day or two and let you and TΓ©a spend some time together? Because I see the way you look at TΓ©a too, Yugi.
[ But he's not merely trying to deflect, just trying to be less self-absorbed and think more of others, just like Yugi does. ]
I suppose you're right, but I think, this time, you should go first. Ask TΓ©a if she'd like to spend the day with you and see what happens from there.
[ A similar smile crosses Atem's face, but he too is completely serious with his suggestion. ]
no subject
Well, he did, until just now.
He's still pretty sure that if they asked to spend time with Lunafreya she'd say yes. ]
I enjoy all the time I have with my friends, including you. I just.. don't know where I want to go when everyone else seems to. But, I'm sure I'll figure it out.
[ As all he really wants to do is live in the present and not have things change. He finally got his wish, and there's a part of him that still isn't ready to let it all go and grow up.
He doesn't mind if Atem needs time to walk around and simply be. Even if that means needing to control his body and walk around aimlessly. They both share the body, so that means they should both have equal time with it if needed. All he asks is that if something happens he knows about it. ]
What kind of things do you want to do?
[ He could really just flip the conversation and say that supporting him is by Atem having something of his own. But, well, he hopes he won't have to. ]
We grew up together and spent plenty of time together. But... [ Yugi sighs and closes the laptop down with a frown. ] I'm just her childhood friend. You're the one that she's attracted to -- even before we knew we were separate people. She was trying to find ways to spend time with you. I thought maybe it'd be easier for you to open up to her than me because of it.
[ He forces a big smile then. Namely because it's something he doesn't plan on doing. TΓ©a would say 'Yes', but, it wouldn't really be a date. It would just be another day of hanging out with him like they always have. There's no reason to ask her when he knows that is the outcome. It's been the outcome and even though she says both of them are people she cares about... he knows the romantic feelings go towards the disembodied spirit sitting on the bed. ]
I already know what she'd say. So, there's no point to it.
[ And that is that. ]
I'm fine the way things are.
no subject
Of course, he laughs and smiles around TΓ©a as well, and of course he considers her a very important friend. But he hasn't connected with her the same way that he has with Lunafreya. And it's the fact that he's found someone with whom he can open up to that makes him want to try and help Yugi with TΓ©a. No, of course he won't force anything, but Yugi deserves to find happiness as well, perhaps even more than he does. ]
You have time to figure things out, Yugi. And I have no doubt that you will. You'll learn just what it is that makes you happy and fulfills you, and you'll rise to the occasion.
[ He hopes that Yugi doesn't interpret his words as mere platitudes, simply saying what he thinks he wants to hear. He means every word, and he's completely confident that Yugi will figure out what he wants to do with his life. And even if he just wants to live in the moment and enjoy what he has, there's really nothing wrong with that as far as Atem is concerned. ]
Well, I don't know. [ In a rare moment of hesitation, Atem raises a hand to idly rub the back of his neck while he tries to think about his answer. ] I suppose there is one thing I'd like to do. [ But he's never given voice to it before. ]
But thoughts can change, can't they? Perhaps all TΓ©a needs is to spend more time with you, in a setting with only the two of you. No distractions from anyone else, just you and her together.
[ And then when Yugi says that last part, Atem's expression turns into a frown, because he doesn't like what he's hearing. Has he really done Yugi such a disservice that he thinks he won't open up to him? If that's the case, then he's completely failed at being a good partner and friend to him. ]
Yugi, is that really how you feel? That it's hard for me to open up to you?
[ He hasn't forgotten the discussion about TΓ©a, but what Yugi has just said worries him. ]
no subject
I already know what makes me happy. Fulfilled? I don't know. I'm not like you or Luna. I don't have a grand destiny or role to fill. Outside of making sure the Millennium Puzzle is safe.
[ He's fine with that. Really. ]
What's that?
[ Because, he'd rather not talk more about the situation with TΓ©a. He knows how she sees him. So, the best thing he can do is just let it go. It'll take time, but, he figures it'll happen naturally and eventually. He doesn't even really address the comment about him and TΓ©a. ]
At the time. That's not how I feel now. [ He shakes his head. ] We really hadn't figured out how to talk to one another like this at the time. That night when I asked who you were... I think that was the first time we really talked about anything.
no subject
I'm sure that's something that will come to you in time. [ He can't really say that he's speaking from experience, because who knows what his experiences really are? But something deep inside him is telling him it's all right to speak with confidence on this subject.
And he can tell that Yugi really has no interest in continuing the conversation about TΓ©a, so for the moment, he decides to leave that alone.
I forgot what I was going to have him say.]Sometime when both of us have the time, I think that I would like us to have a duel. [ He knows how that sounds. It would be rather hard for one of them to have the time and the other not, but he knows Yugi will understand his meaning. ]
Not a duel in an arena, or using Kaiba's inventions, and not one with spectators. Just the two of us right here with our own decks and nothing on the line but an interest in-
[ He pauses, because he hasn't really thought about things as being for fun, but that's really what he wants to try. ] An interest in having fun.
[ It's an idea he's not familiar with, but he knows Yugi is, and he hopes that this proposed idea is something that appeals to his partner. ]
oh lookie there, this fits really nicely into future thread *ahem*
The inner thoughts are interrupted by the suggestion his other self gives. Yugi's head practically snaps up, eyes wide, and a child like light coming to his whole composure. Part of him has always wanted to duel Atem. Not to prove himself or show that he's just as good as him -- but just as a game. It feels like years since he's played Duel Monsters as a game and not some device to save the world.
How would it work? Who else can see Atem -- or him -- in order be a stand in? The logistics are enough to make his head spin. There has to be a way to do it though. It'll be something he figures out as they go forward. Even if it's just a way to figure out how to do it in their soul rooms. ]
I'd love to! [ Even that really doesn't properly put into words how much he'd leap at the chance to do this. ] We should make up our own decks. Or at least, write down what is in them. Just in case we ever get to!
oh would you look at that, it does
I'm not entirely sure how it would work, but between the two of us, I'm certain we can come up with something.
[ He offers Yugi a wide smile of his own at the suggestion about their decks. ]
That's a good idea, Yugi. If the chance presents itself at any point, at least we'll be ready.
[ He also intends to put some thought into how to turn their respective wish to duel each other into a reality. It'll be a challenge, but he's confident that they'll be able to work something out. ]
at least this thread ends happy DAMMIT
We'll figure it out.
[ This has to happen somehow. It's rare that he sees Atem with a smile like that on his face. Self-assured, ambitious, arrogant, and even embarrassed. However, joy? That's rare. It makes Yugi determined to have his other self smile like that more often.
He's been given a second life. He needs to live it to the fullest. As much as a dislocated spirit can anyways. So, duels with him, or a date with Luna? Yugi is going to find a way to make it happen.
He goes to speak about how he can roll over and go to sleep that way Atem can start working if he wants. He's more than aware that the spirit never sleeps, and, focusing on building a deck might give him something to do other than wander the endless maze of his soul room. Except, then, a beeping echoes in the room. Yugi leans around Atem - despite really not needing to - so he can look at the alarm on the phone.
It's already that early?
Yugi sighs and falls backwards on the bed. School.
Oh, right. He needs to text Luna too. ]
I guess the deck building will need to wait.
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