YGO PSL | ❝ shadows in the city, like a demon in the dark, come to tear us apart. ❞

[inheritedpuzzle]

STARGAZING

( continued from here). it's time for sad duels and talking with dragon wife! )


[ It's so frustrating. Yugi feels as if his words can't pierce whatever dark cloud hangs over his other self. It sticks to him like wet clothes and he's unable to just rip them off. It's a side of Atem that Yugi has never seen before, and, part of him wonders if he really can help remove that shadow. He's unable to forgive himself for being human and having a moment of weakness. A moment with dire fallout and consequences, but, they overcame it. Dartz's soul is freed, the darkness beaten back for at least a little while, and they all lived to see it through.

Yugi can't think of more to ask for. He knows that his other self is looking for something or someone to tell him that it's alright in the end. Except, even if Atem hears it, will he believe it? Despite his constant reassurances and remarks, he can see how that shadow haunts the eyes of the usually confident spirit.

Well... Yugi isn't going to give up. He's going to keep trying to convince Atem and show him what he can.

It just might be something he can't do alone.

A determined look comes to his eyes and he is already walking past Atem. He isn't dismissing the older spirit or the look he gives him. Instead, he's pulling on his school jacket. He looks back at Atem, knowing it looks a little ridiculous that he has his jacket on over his pajamas and socks to top it off. It's as close as he's going to get to wearing slippers though.

Cultural habits never really die. ]

Come on, we're going. [ No room for debate in his tone. ] I can feel you want to ask me something. So, ask along the way.

[ They're going and that's final.

He just knows that if he tell Atem where they're going that he'll insist they don't. There will be a million reasons as to why they shouldn't, while ignoring the main reason they should. In Yugi's mind, there's one other person that can help him shake the shadow that hangs over his partner. She helped Atem when Yugi couldn't. Who else can he ask? ]

And don't think about backing out of whatever it is you want to ask me. I'll pester you the whole way there until you do.

Comments

[inheritedpuzzle]

[ Oh, Yugi will protest. Atem may be a spirit, but to Yugi, he is a brother. He owes the Pharaoh so much. Sharing a body with him and stepping back to let Atem be apart of the world around them is far from a high price to pay. He deserves more than just being a guiding force and a convenient aspect that shows up during duels. It won't hurt Yugi if a night or day is spent in his soul room so his other self can have something that he can call his own.

If they are going to be partners and share his body? Then, there has to be a compromise they can come to. It's just getting Atem to see that he is more than willing to let that happen.

He nods. Another duel it is. Maybe next time they can find someone else other than Gentiana to help them.

Yugi quickly glances between his other self and Gentiana. ]

Of course. [ The tall looming woman steps to the side to allow them entry. The door closes behind the two once they have entered. Yugi steps to the side, eyes following as Gentiana almost seems to glide towards the small sitting area of the large hotel room. A chair has been pulled out to sit in opposition to the smaller couch.

He glances back at Atem before gingerly making his way to the area. Gentiana nods, gesturing for him to move to the couch. Yugi wordlessly does so, feeling as if for some reason the whole situation is almost delicate now. He's not sure why, but the whole atmosphere is different now. It can't just be because of their duel.

Before he can even ask if Lunafreya is joining them, he sees her step into the room from the joined balcony. She wears a white dress instead of the nightgown from the previous night. Her hair is pulled to the side in a loose braid over her shoulder. He smiles and opens his mouth to greet her, but, stops at seeing the expression on her face. The assortment of bruises and scratches were one thing, but, he would expect her to at least show some emotion. Instead, Lunafreya wears an expression of... resignation? Uncertainty? He can't quite place it. It's almost like she's not fully herself or the Oracle and is somewhere being stuck between.

She comes to stand beside Gentiana and gives the bow that Yugi's come to expect from her form of greeting. ]

Yugi-sama, heika.

Hi, Luna. [ Yugi shifts slightly. He's not sure really what to do now. ] We're...

[ Gentiana raises a hand and gestures to the couch. ] The vessel will take his place there. While the Pharaoh will stand beside the Oracle's retainer as she sits. [ Her hand makes a sweeping gesture to the chair opposite. ] Are your decks prepared?

Yep. [ He looks up to Atem as he stands between the couch and table. 'Where do you want me to put your deck, Other Me?'

Lunafreya and Gentiana share a brief look to one another before she takes her seat in the larger chair to the side of the makeshift duel arena. ]

[ifthereiswill]

[ When Yugi moves to his side of what will serve as the dueling arena, Atem moves to the opposite side, all the while keeping one eye on Lunafreya. He would be lying if he said he isn't worried about her; just as Yugi observed, her injuries are one thing, but there's something far more worrisome about her expression, or the lack of it.

What could be going on in her mind? He hopes that there's time for them to talk following the duel, because something seems to be wrong, and he wants to know what it is. ]

Right there is fine, Yugi. [ He manages a small smile for the benefit of his partner as he points to a spot on the table. And then he glances at Gentiana. She's the one who will be acting as his stand-in for this duel, so he asks her as well: ] Does that work for you?

[ She at least deserves some consideration too, since she'll be the one actually handling the cards. ]

[inheritedpuzzle]

[ Yugi places the deck where he's directed to and then pulls the deck he brought out of the holster on his belt. He takes his seat opposite of Atem. It feels a bit more organized than he was expecting. Still, he'll go along with how Gentiana directs them.

Gentiana nods to Atem's question and takes her seat in the chair opposite of Yugi. She bows, and he awkwardly returns it. Then, she picks up Atem's deck and stretches her hand out to Lunafreya. Yugi watches as Lunafreya takes the cards with the utmost of care and gently shuffles them. She returns the deck to Gentiana, who then holds it up for Atem's approval.

Yugi follows after and hands his deck to her. She shuffles his and returns it to him, managing a small smile on her face that is meant to reassure him. Yugi isn't sure if it does... because neither feel genuine from her or his other self. Still, it's an improvement from the night before. ]

What rules were decided upon by the Pharaoh and his vessel? [ Gentiana tilts her head up. ]

2,000 Life Points, forty cards each. We decided to leave the God Cards behind. [ He glances at the two women who nod in return. Somehow, they could tell by just handling the decks. ] We didn't decide on what the winner would get.

There will be no prize for the winner. [ The dark haired woman places the deck down on the table. ] The Lady to the Oracle will decide if the duel between the two has been worth their while. If so, then she will impart the knowledge she has of the Pharaoh's kingdom three thousand years ago. Does this suffice?

[ Yugi looks at Atem. ] What do you think, Other Me?

[ifthereiswill]

[ Atem hasn't shown much interest in anything lately, and he's all too aware of it; his fighting spirit took a hit, and while he's not even sure if he wants to continue dueling competitively, this duel that he and Yugi are about to have is only for fun, with no particularly high stakes attached to it. And for that, he's grateful.

He listens as Gentiana lays out her terms and he nods his agreement. ]

That sounds fine. [ If any of them are paying attention, they might note how Atem straightens up at the mention of his kingdom and the knowledge that she evidently has, even if his words sound as reserved as ever. It's the first real interest he's shown in anything in recent days, but even then, it's still a little bit lackluster in comparison to how he normally might be. ]

And what do you think? [ He turns the question back around, just in case this doesn't sound acceptable to his partner. ]

[inheritedpuzzle]

[ Yugi, of course, sees the small change in posture. His other self will say again and again he is in no rush to retrieve his memories. Yugi has to wonder how much of that is true when the ancient spirit will move to attention whenever Egypt is mentioned. For now, he decides to keep the thought in the back of his mind. He'll just need to find out more about what happened in Egypt three thousand years ago. ]

If it helps us understand what happened to you a bit more? Then, I think we should.

[ How Gentiana has that knowledge is still what baffles him. Though, that question might be answered shortly. He just needs to duel the best he can. He'll prove to Atem that a fighting spirit doesn't always need to come at high stakes. He'll show him that ultimately what matters is the bonds between them, not how much Atem may have stumbled and fallen recently. That's something only he can show him through this duel and presenting situations that Atem will have to trust his deck on.

Yugi built his deck specifically to do just that.

The sound of tink can be heard. Lunafreya catches the coin in her palm. A beat passes. She opens it to look at the coin resting there. ] Heika has the first turn. Draw your hands and start.

[ Yugi glances to the side as Lunafreya picks up a pen and pad of paper. She's keeping track of their Lifepoints? He suppresses the smile that threatens to come to his face. That's how Gentiana has included her then... she's the one officiating.

As he draws his first hand, he smiles at the spirit standing beside Gentiana as she fans the cards out for the Pharaoh to see. They're dueling now. All of their thoughts have to be kept to themselves.

Come on, Other Me. Show me all you've got. ]

[ifthereiswill]

[ By now, it's an almost involuntary reaction. He has no memories of Egypt, nor of what sort of Pharaoh he was, but he can't help but sit up whenever someone mentions that name. There's a bond connecting him with Egypt, whether he remembers it or not. ]

Then that's what we'll do.

[ He knows that he's curious about what knowledge Gentiana has, and the only way for them to learn that is by going through with this duel. The only problem is, he knows something is holding him back. He didn't voice it or even think it, because Yugi's always been able to tell when something is bothering him, but the truth is, his heart is far from being in this duel.

He won't just hand the win over to Yugi, of course, but it's going to take some effort on his part to duel at something even close to his best.

When he hears that sound, he turns to see what made it, and that's when he sees Lunafreya catching the coin and announcing that he'll go first. He nods, recognizing that she's been put in charge of presiding over this duel.

Soon enough, Gentiana's drawn their hand and has the cards fanned out so that he can see them. He points first to one card, a magic card that goes face down, and then a monster card that goes in defense mode as his opening move. ]

That ends my turn.

[ He looks to Yugi then, as if waiting to see what his move will be. ]

[inheritedpuzzle]

[ Yugi can tell that Atem's full presence isn't there in the duel with him. It isn't by the lack of cards he plays or how he plays them. Yugi has been by Atem's side in every duel they've ever had together. He knows how the other thinks and how calculating he can be when he really is focused in on it. Maybe he doesn't need to be there to fully enjoy it... but Yugi is still going to give it his all and not make it easy.

He hopes so anyways.

He places one monster in attack mode, two cards face down, and ends his turn.

Back and forth it goes, with Yugi's gaze moving between the cards on the table and Lunafreya as she writes down the changes in points as monsters are removed from play. He glances up at Atem at one point in the middle with a smirk on his face. It's hard for him to not enjoy it. They never thought this would be possible. So, even if his other self can't enjoy it as much? At least they're able to duel at all. He'll need to do something to thank both Lunafreya and Gentiana once this is said and done.

The mental tally of Lifepoints hasn't escaped him as the turns go on. He knows now that they're in the final stretches of it. As he sees it? It comes down to one play. Who will play their magic or trap card that will seal the duel in eithers favor? He might have just a bit more Lifepoints in numbers, but, Yugi is very aware that it's come to the point where he's tried to direct Atem all along.

Either a card in his hand or one that he pulls will help him win the duel. His other self has to make a decision or not to play that card. Anything to raise the attack points higher than Yugi has on the field to do the final blow. What's more important? Staying where he is and unwilling to move forward... or taking that leap-of-faith and believing in himself? All Yugi can do is present the situation the best he can for that choice to be made.

Yugi looks to Gentiana and then to the spirit that is usually filled with such confidence and strength.

Your move, Other Me. He thinks to himself. I know you've got something that'll make you win. Are you going to do it? ]

[ifthereiswill]

[ Even as he plays his various cards, he can still imagine them pulling away and recoiling from him in disgust and fear. They're cooperating with him now, but it wasn't that long ago that they weren't so accepting of being played by him. He hasn't fully regained their trust, but he's resolved to never use the Orichalcos seal or anything associated with it ever again. And neither will he sacrifice his cards as if they mean nothing to him.

Most of his usual resolve and decisiveness is missing as he goes about making his moves, but he's still doing the best he can to give Yugi the duel he deserves. Of course, Yugi took an early lead and has so far managed to maintain it. He's not that far behind, but even with his hesitancy, he can also tell that the duel is coming up on its final stages.

Just as Yugi's already surmised, all he has to do is either draw the right card or play it, if it's in his hand, and boost the attack points of his monster and the duel will be his. He can even see a card in the hand that Gentiana's holding that would do just that and end this duel with a win.

He just has to give her the nod to play it, but the words seem to stick in his throat. Gentiana turns her head to look at him, as if she's sensing his doubt and hesitation. He could win if he just gives the order, but instead of saying those words and giving Gentiana the go-ahead to play that card, his hands drop to his sides and for just a moment, his gaze drops to the floor.

The last time he was in a position like this with his back to the wall and the stakes far higher than they are in this duel between two friends, he gave into his fear and made a terrible mistake. If he lets his fears dictate his actions now, at least no one's soul is on the line, but then he'll have failed to prove that he's ready and capable of picking up the pieces and moving on.

Perhaps this is one of those things that if he waits until he's ready, he'll never actually move. With that thought in mind, and with his heart firmly entrenched in his throat, he signals to Gentiana to play the card in his hand, and then to call what should be the last attack in this duel.

... Unless, of course, Yugi has another trick up his sleeve. Atem really wouldn't be surprised if he does. But he tells Gentiana to go ahead with the move anyway, regardless of what might end up happening. At least this time, even if he doesn't want to tempt fate, the chances of someone being hurt are minimal at best. ]

totes recommended listening: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OA7V0u-T98U

[inheritedpuzzle]

[ It isn't exactly as he had hoped it would be... but it's a good start. He had hoped that Atem would feel more like himself as they continued on. It seems like the relationship between him and his deck is still in question. He can't sense it nearly as well as his other half. He can't tell all their thoughts and feelings like Lunafreya can. Even then, he hopes that the monsters in play will see that his other self has not only beaten the magic that pulled him away, but wishes to repair their bond.

Hopefully this duel will do that.

Yugi glances down at the combo as Gentiana calls it. He has the card in his hand that could change it all. He doesn't play it. Not out of pity, or a desire to make his other self feel better. No, it's not anything like that. Yugi knows his other half better than anyone. He knows that no matter what he plays right now, Atem would be a step ahead of him. He could fend off this last attack, but something would go his favor. Even if he limped along for a few more turns? Atem has already won it. He has no idea what that combo would be, or the monster, or the trap card... he can just tell. This duel is better if it remains the way it has been. He doesn't want to box his other self into a corner and ignite that feeling of desperation to win.

It's just better to end it now.

So, Yugi looks over at Lunafreya. The woman who has remained silent the entire duel nods to confirm that the attack does bring an end to his lifepoints. He lowers his hand to the table and looks back at his other self. A gentle smile spreads on his face.. and a look of pride settles in his gaze. ]

You win, Other Me.

[ The note of finality isn't sad for Yugi. He's proud of his other self. There were plenty of times that Atem could have turned away from decisions. He could have forfeited. Instead, he kept pushing himself, if only by small amounts every time.

Gentiana's gaze shifts between the two even if her eyelids remain shut. ]

rolls in feels

[ifthereiswill]

[ No, it isn't exactly how he hoped it would be either. He knows hesitation still dogs him, causing him to pause and question himself and his choices. The relationship between himself and his cards is very much tenuous and fragile, and he can't help but feel that all he has to do is make one wrong move and he'll lose the trust that's barely begun to reform itself. All he wants is to regain some of the confidence that he lost, but more importantly, he wants to win back the trust of his deck.

The only problem is that he's not sure he's done enough.

Even as Gentiana plays the card that will end the duel, hesitation and uncertainty is plainly seen in Atem's eyes and the way he holds himself. Of course he knows his strategy is sound, and that his final move should be the one that earns him this win, but is that really what he wanted? Did he want to win? Perhaps he should have held back and allowed Yugi to take the win. He knows that his partner is more than capable of holding his own in a duel, even in a duel against his other self.

Now he's beginning to realize that while he trusts his deck, it's himself that he doesn't trust, and beginning to change that will take longer than the time it took for the two of them to duel each other.

Still, all it takes is one look at Lunafreya and the tallies that she has been keeping. He managed to take out Yugi's lifepoints, thus handing the win to him. So why doesn't he feel better? Perhaps that will come with time, and he just needs to accept this as what it is: a tentative step forward.

A small smile comes to his face as well, and after a moment's hesitation, he holds out his hand for his partner to shake it, if he wants to. ]

Thank you for the duel, Yugi. It- It was a good one.

[ Even though he knows his will was more or less missing from it. ]

[inheritedpuzzle]

[ If Yugi is ever going to win against his other self? He wants to earn it. He wants it to be something they both strive their hardest for. This duel wasn't that, and neither was their first one, and that's fine. It might be that duel can only happen once the memories of his other self are restored. That way he can duel at his fullest and really show Yugi what he's made of.

There's no hesitation from Yugi as he reaches out to shake Atem's hand. Then a nod. It was a good duel... and maybe their next one will be the one they really want it to be. ]

You're welcome. [ He means that with his whole heart. Whatever he can do to help his other self at any point. ] Our next one will be even better.

[ Lunafreya glances between Gentiana and Yugi as he speaks. She remains silent, as she has this entire time, purposely keeping her eyes from the outstretched hand Yugi has. Instead she closes her own eyes and folds the notebook in her lap closed with as little sound as possible.

Yugi can't help but absolutely beam in pride now. It might be a tentative step forward, but that step is a large one from his point of view. Their next duel will be better.

His thoughts are interrupted as Gentiana stands. His eyes move from the Pharaoh to the taller woman with long black hair. She seems to regard the table and the still placed cards in thought. Then, she regards the two duelists in front of her. Yugi turns his attention back to Atem.

'Would you ask Gentiana to stand in again for one of us? Do you think she'd mind?'

Is he already thinking about how to set up their next duel? Yes. He can't help it. Especially with how Gentiana found a way for Lunafreya to be apart of it. Their next one could on be better... right? ]

[ifthereiswill]

Yes, I'm sure that it will be.

[ He's confident of that, at least, even if he's not really sure what sort of mindset he'll be in when that time comes, but he can already tell that he's slowly beginning to pick himself back up from the low place he's been in ever since he and Yugi were separated.

He continues addressing Yugi, but he has one eye on Lunafreya and Gentiana, as if wondering what's going on inside each of their minds. He would be lying if he said he wasn't wondering that mostly about Lunafreya, but both women have impassive expressions on their faces, making it difficult to read them.

But Yugi's still waiting for an answer, so he puts a pause on his wondering so that he can reply.

'Well, considering that we have yet to meet someone like her who can communicate with both of us, I'd say that we would have to ask her if she'd do it again. As for whether or not she'd mind, it's hard to say.'

But somehow, he thinks she won't, if they were to ask her again. ]

[inheritedpuzzle]

[ He nods. 'It looked like the two of you worked well together.'

It may not have been the idealized form of a duel that Yugi had hoped for, but, is still overjoyed by it all. He's sure there are things he's learned from this... maybe things Atem has even learned once he reflects on it all. If anything? Yugi just wants his other self to remember what it was like to believe in himself and his deck. It might take time. Hopefully this was that first step in it. ]

Gentiana?

[ His eyebrows raise at the sound of Lunafreya's voice. Yugi turns to look back at her, finding her eyes still closed and her hands neatly folded over the notebook she has still in her lap. Oh--right. Gentiana was going to decide how well the duel went to explain what she knew of the time that his other self came from. He can feel the shift of energy in the room then. It's heavier, and maybe even a little colder.

The long-dark haired woman turns to face the two that share one body. She regards both of them in turn, then her head tilts down towards the cards left on the table. ]

Tell the Lady of the Oracle why the vessel and the Pharaoh desire to know of the ancient past.

[ Yugi blinks. It's an easy answer for him. ] The Other Me has been locked away for thousands of years. I don't know why... he doesn't know why. Everything that's happened since I solved the Millennium Puzzle points to what happened that he can't remember. The Tomb Keepers, the tablet that has the Other Me and Kaiba on it, Pegasus and the other Millennium Items. Even Luna and I are tied together because of our grandparents knowing about the Puzzle.

[ He pauses for a brief moment. ] And, it's my my duty to get them back for him. Luna can talk to Duel Monsters, and you protect Luna... and the Other Me protects all of us. If finding anything out about what Egypt was like three thousand years ago helps? Then, I'm going to do it.

Even if you decide not to tell us.

[ Gentiana's head tilts but a fraction at the answer Yugi gives. Then, her closed gaze turns towards Atem for his answer. ]

[ifthereiswill]

[ 'I didn't expect that arrangement to work well for any of us, but it seems as though it did. I'm not quite sure why, but I had my doubts about how cooperative she would be. But then again, she knew she was acting as my stand-in, so I suppose I shouldn't have wondered.'

And, well, he can't pretend that the duel hasn't done something to restore some of his confidence. He might not ever want to duel competitively again, but at the very least, he knows that he can duel Yugi and maybe even enjoy himself again. He might not have gotten a lot of enjoyment from this one, but it's still a step in the right direction.

When Lunafreya speaks, he turns to look at her, but her countenance and her composure hasn't changed. Then the directive from Gentiana comes, and Yugi's quick to answer with a response that basically sums it all up. Except Atem's still unsure about how much he really wants to know.

He's not even sure if he still agrees with the notion that it's Yugi's duty to get his memories back. That's been the understanding they've operated on for a long time, but recent events have shaken his resolve and his belief in that particular goal.

But now they're all waiting on him to answer, and he starts to feel something inside himself clench up as if that uncertainty is now turning into pressure to explain himself and the way his thoughts have changed.

But can't he want to learn about the past without necessarily stating he wants to regain his memories? That thought occurs to him and he latches onto it. ]

I have no memories of what Egypt was like in the past. [ Or memories of what he was like, but he purposefully avoids saying that. ] If you know anything at all about what was happening three thousand years ago, I would like to hear about it, if you're willing to tell us.

[ It's a much more restrained answer than the one Yugi gave, and he guesses that Gentiana might find it unsatisfactory. He knows that the three in the room will be able to see right through it and what he's doing, but he can't force himself to feel something he doesn't, namely a clear desire to regain what's been locked away from him for so long.

If that's a condition of learning what Gentiana knows, then, well- he supposes he'll just have to live without that knowledge. It's no different than what he's been doing this entire time. ]

/now for her narrative :O

[guidingmoonlight]

[ Lunafreya remains as she has since the night before. The actions have all played out and she is but merely a spectator in all of it. No, even a spectator has a role to play in something like this. Her role in this has been that of someone awaiting for when she is needed. The Oracle is not needed for the duel, and Luna is not needed for that which Gentiana wishes to share. It has left her in a place in which she must engage at some level and yet need not be truly present at all for it.

Perhaps her time as both the girl and the Oracle for this small band of friends has begun to come to a close. She can only hear a portion of the conversation between the three, and any guidance or comfort she might give is unneeded. Her hands had clenched the notebook more than once through out the duel without any of the souls present noticing it.

What if what she desires to give and share was merely reflected back because of the loss of the young soul that has now returned home? She wishes that is not the case... but it could very well be. That single probability causes her to be silent when she may have spoken during the duel. Not that those words are needed for either participant. She has seen the pair duel countless times. She can tell the words that Yugi attempts to say, and the hesitation that Atem still carries. The conversation between them is no place for her to be; let alone witness.

Yugi frowns slightly at Atem's answer but says nothing. Gentiana's expression remains neutral. Had she expected an answer like that given how he had dueled? Had she thought that a grand turn of events might happen because of the duel? That answer is one the black haired woman does not share. Instead, she merely turns and walks around the spirit of the Pharaoh. ]

Knowledge of the ancient past is not to be told. What the Lady offers is meant to be shown.

[ Gentiana comes to stand in front of Lunafreya. She obstructs the view of their exchange from the other two in the room. Lunafreya lets out a soundless sigh before raising her eyes to the other woman. Their attires contrast one another - one white and one black. The long slender fingers of the taller woman gently rest on the Oracle's chin, tilting her head up. Then, Gentiana nods. Her decision has been made and her mind set. All that remains is if the Oracle will comply.

Lunafreya meets the closed gaze of her longest friend long enough to learn what her answer is. Then, her gaze wanders off to the side. She is apprehensive of this notion. Perhaps the source of the unsettled feeling is simply because she knows that the story Gentiana wishes to share is that of sorrow. A story that Lunafreya sees little benefit in sharing. Gentiana, however, sees a benefit and thus it is her duty to help her oldest friend and maternal figure to share what she wishes. Her gaze finally lowers before she nods.

Why else is she present if not to do what her duty commands of her?

She places the notebook to the side. Her hands extend to either side, palms opening, and in twinkling lights the Trident of the Oracle appears in her hands. Gentiana steps to the side so that Lunafreya may stand with her ancient relic resting horizontally in her hold. The Oracle lowers her gaze to the relic and makes no further moves towards the pair standing in front of them. ]

The Trident is passed down from Oracle to Oracle. Within it lies the power to channel memories. At times, the Oracle has been able to speak to the memories of those who acted before her. [ The dark haired woman curls her hand around the ancient metal. ] The Lady and the Oracle will work together to show the knowledge she possesses of the kingdom three thousand years ago.

[ Yugi opens his mouth to speak, but, closes it again. He's not sure what to say about any of it. Magic... it somehow always comes back to that. He frowns, but still stands determined to move forward with the idea. He looks back to Atem.

'I'm ready if you are.' ]

[ifthereiswill]

[ Atem watches Gentiana move closer to where Lunafreya is, and just observes as the two women seem to converse even without words. Finally, it appears as though they come to a conclusion, and Atem watches as Lunafreya summons the Trident.

He isn't really certain what to expect, because there's no way for him to know what it is that Gentiana intends to show them. All he knows is that, in the aftermath of the duel, even if his fighting spirit wasn't really present for it, some of the adrenaline that rose up during it has started to fade, leaving him feeling tired once more.

But all he and Yugi have to do now is just play the role of observer for whatever knowledge Gentiana plans to reveal to them both. He doesn't need to be filled with energy to just watch her memories unfold. At least, that's what he assumes.

Atem's frown mirrors Yugi's own, because something about the solemnity with which Gentiana speaks brings to life some measure of uncertainty about what it is they're about to see, as well as doubt that it's something he wants to witness. But the terms of the duel were clear, and he doubts that either woman will take it well if he attempts to back out of it now.

He nods slowly, still appearing unsure, but it seems there's no choice but to go forward.

'I'm ready too.' Even if the last thing he feels right now is being ready for anything. ]

[inheritedpuzzle]

[ Yugi nods to his partner, then turns his attention back to the two women. ]

We're ready.

[ Gentiana gestures to the open spaces on the grip of the Trident. ]

Place your hands on the Trident and we will begin.

[ Yugi spares yet another glance to Atem before following the directions of the Oracle's retainer. His hand curls around the grip and he finds himself oddly surprised. It has to be at least as old as the Millennium Items, but there is no sign of wear or tear on it. He has seen Lunafreya use it of course, but, it almost seems like it would be brand new.

He goes to comment about it all when he realizes that the room around them has faded away into what seems like an unending stretch of darkness. He steps closer to Atem merely on instinct and turns to look back at Gentiana and Lunafreya. He can't even see them in the darkness. He takes yet another step closer to Atem, hand reaching out to grab onto the sleeve of the mirrored jacket he wears.

Then, suddenly, four fires spring to life in a rectangular shape. Yugi turns his head to look at each one. They illuminate a large room that is quite obviously Egyptian. Around them are stone tablets with carvings of familiar and unfamiliar monsters on them. ]

--Duel Monsters?

Yes.

[ Yugi's head snaps back behind him to see both Lunafreya and Gentiana standing behind them. The Trident is now carried as it usually is, and the dark haired woman begins to walk the parameter of the center raised area they find themselves on. Her head tilts upwards as one hand raises to gesture to the walls that tower above them. On one wall can be seen what looks like the carving of the Millennium Puzzle and the Egyptian Gods. ]

There once existed a balance and understanding between those of the Pharaoh's kingdom and the spirits of the monsters. They would lend their strength to the mortals in place of security and a way to exist in this world. Not every spirit sought harmony with the ways of man. The evil ones hid themselves amongst the souls of man... and some of thee most truly powerful ones preferred to roam free in the world. Some became gods to the mortals that found them.

[ Gentiana comes to the stop at one of the staircases as raised voices can be heard. ]

However, fear in men's hearts breeds desperation. Desperation leads to unspeakable acts done to those once called allies. Plans are made in secret and the truth is hidden from even the most powerful that lead their kingdoms. Wars broke across the sands. Items were created to protect the kingdom through not only magic, but to use and channel the spirits themselves. Regardless of their wishes.

[ Yugi's eyes widen slightly as he looks around at each stone tablet again. ] You mean the Millennium Items?

[ Gentiana does not answer as suddenly the voices from the hallway are increasingly louder. ]

[ifthereiswill]

[ If Atem is still feeling hesitant, he tries to not let it show as he moves closer so that he can wrap his hand around the Trident. He really isn't sure what to expect, because he hasn't experienced anything quite like this before, but even so, it takes him by surprise when the room they're in dissipates into darkness. When Yugi steps closer, he reaches out with the hand that's not holding onto the Trident, stopping when he takes hold of the sleeve of his coat.

Suddenly, though, the darkness disappears as a room is lit up in front of them. He recognizes the tablets before Yugi says their name, knowing that they must be looking at Duel Monsters as it was played in ancient Egypt. Gentiana's answer only confirms it.

He continues observing the scene in front of them as the dark haired woman narrates for them. As the raised voices sound, he listens to Gentian's words, riveted by her explanation thus far.

He looks up in surprise when Yugi mentions the Millennium Items, but it makes sense: while he imagines there could be a variety of items with magical and spiritual properties, these items in question must be the ones Yugi named.

What he doesn't know is what role they play in whatever it is that Gentiana intends to show them. Whose voices are those? He wonders, but there's nothing he can do but watch and wait to see how this unfolds. ]

[inheritedpuzzle]

[ Their tour guide, for all intent and purpose, remains quiet even as the source of voices enter the room. It is a group of what one can only presume are priests, making their way up the steps. The one that heads them quite literally phases through Gentiana as he comes to stand in front of the group. He stares past the group as if they aren't present. The light glitters off the gold piece in his eye socket. ]

Other Me... it's... [ The Millennium Eye. The Head Priest was wearing it just like Pegasus had. Yugi looks at Atem.

'Does he seem familiar to you? At all?'

The Head Priest raises his hand and gestures to a stone tablet to the wall above them. His head snaps over and a glow envelopes the Millennium Eye. ]

「 Come forth, useless beast! I would have words with you! 」

[ Yugi feels a hand on his shoulder and glances behind him. Lunafreya pulls him back to stand in front of her. His hand on Atem's sleeve also tugs him towards her.

A loud roar echoes through the chamber as one of the tablets comes to life. Somehow, through it all, Gentiana's voice manages to cut through it. ]

The Head Priest of the Kingdom collected the spirits and bound several of them to the stone tablets that were no better than prisons. It mattered not if they were destructive spirits or benevolent. All were taken in by his desire to save the kingdom he swore to. A pair of spirits he collected from the west had stood by a small settlement for hundreds of years.

[ The light suddenly shoots out from the tablet to reveal the shape of what looks to be a dragon with multiple wings. It has yet to take full shape, as if fighting against the magic that would pull it from the tablet. ]

[ifthereiswill]

[ Atem watches, riveted, as the scene continues to unfold. When the group of priests arrive, his attention is drawn to them, simply because of the purpose with which they move forward. He stares at each one, or at least, as best as he can from his viewpoint. Perhaps some spark of recognition will ignite if he looks at them long enough. But one minute and then another ticks by and it becomes clear to him that he can't recognize a single face in the crowd.

He makes note of the gold piece that the man who is leading them is wearing, and that is something he recognizes. It's the only thing that he does, and when Yugi speaks, he turns slightly to look at him.

'No, I'm afraid he doesn't. The only thing I recognize is the Millennium Eye. Whoever it is that's wearing it, I can't tell.'

But he supposes that Gentiana knows his identity only too well, and that both he and Yugi will learn it, as well as any other mysterious identities, before this is over.

But then the man speaks, and Atem visibly flinches. His choice of words feels too similar to Atem's own, during that fateful duel that saw Yugi sealed away from him. The reminder is unexpected but unwelcome, and for just a moment, he has to look away, as if afraid of what he might see.

But then he dimly registers Yugi pulling him back, and he moves almost automatically, his thoughts once more swirling with guilt and regret. Those clouds disperse quickly enough once Gentiana begins speaking again.

He listens with rapt attention as she explains the actions of the Head Priest and his dealings with the spirits. And then suddenly, because he wasn't expecting it, the appearance of the great dragon and the light that shoots out from the tablet causes him to jump. ]

What is that dragon?

[ He can't help but ask, even though he assumes an explanation from Gentiana will come sooner or later. ]

[inheritedpuzzle]

[ Yugi nods, disappointed that so far nothing seems to be familiar. Maybe as they see more that might change. He still squeezes his other self's arm to comfort him as he looks away. The whole scene feels uncomfortable already, and it's barely started. ]

Hraesvelgr. A white dragon who sought peace above all with mankind.

[ He turns to look at Atem again. 'A white dragon? Like the Blue-Eyes White Dragon?'

Not that he expects Atem to know. But, what if there is a connection? ]

There was a spirit bound to the great White Dragon: the Frostbearer, Shiva. She held little adoration for mankind at the start. She believed them to be weak, frail, and unable to appreciate the world in which both inhabited. Hraesvelgr proved how hardened her heart had become as they fell in love. Through him, Shiva found admiration for mankind. The two were bound together; where one went the other followed dutifully. When the Head Priest who had done unspeakable acts came to steal the White Dragon for his own desires, he too took with him the Frostbearer.

[ Finally, the white dragon Hraesvelgr takes form. His wings folded around him due to the lack of space in the building. However, his long neck and head lower to stare the Head Priest down. A low rumble echoes in the room. ]

「 You were called upon to aid the Pharaoh in battle! You were asked to help us protect the Kingdom - even that speck of Oasis you call home! What use are you if you do not come when called?! 」

[ The great dragon seems to sigh. His mouth does not move, instead, it is as if they hear his voice in their minds. ]

「 I answer not to the pitiful and pathetic cries of those who wield the power to save themselves. Mine kin does not answer to the call of war that mortal men bring upon themselves. I will not fight on behalf of you nor any king you so worship. Mine kin win outlive you and your lust for power. Perhaps the Head Priest ought set us free, instead of attempting to make creatures above him bend to his will. 」

[ifthereiswill]

[ If it were at all possible to make the things they're seeing become familiar to him through sheer force of will, he would do it. But he can't will himself to know things and remember details that are still very much sealed away, no matter how much he wishes he could remember even the smallest, most insignificant piece of information. He doesn't even need all his memories back; if all he got was the ability to recognize even one person from his past, that would be satisfaction enough.

But it seems as though he can't even have that, at least not yet. ]

Peace with mankind? [ It's not a strange idea by any means, and it's one that Atem would want as well, but it seems odd that that would be the dragon's goal. Not unthinkable or impossible, just odd.

But then he also turns to look at Yugi. 'Could that be a mere coincidence, or is there a connection there?' Of course, as Yugi guessed, Atem has no answer for that, only guesses. ]

I see. [ He might not understand every word or every meaning behind what Gentiana says, but he's following along as best as he can. ] The White Dragon and the Frostbearer went together, even when they were stolen by whoever this head priest is.

[ And of course, all he's thinking about is the links between Seto Kaiba and the Blue-Eyes White Dragon, and the idea that Kaiba is more connected to the past than he wants to admit. But maybe there's no link between any of this, and he's just grasping at straws to form conclusions.

He falls silent once more as the dragon and the priest exchange words. It seems to him that he can understand the positions of both man and beast to some extent, but in the end, it's Hraesvelgr that he finds himself agreeing with more.

Of course, he has no right to pass judgment on the priest, when he's used similar words before. What he can't see is how this will all unfold. But he knows better than to ask too many questions, because something tells him that there's still a lot more that they need to see, as long as Gentiana remains willing to show it to them. ]

[inheritedpuzzle]

Yes. Hraesvelgr and the Frostbearer traveled the world until they settled up on a small oasis in the Kingdom of Sand. They feared the Frostbearer at first for ice and snow do not exist in the desert. Yet, Hraesvelgr became endeared to the mortals in the oasis and thus both protected the men of the oasis for hundreds of years.

[ Yugi supposes that explains enough. Their names don't sound anything native to Egypt. So, like him, the ancient duel monsters had found a love for something in a land that wasn't theirs. While it isn't the same kind of love, Yugi would do anything for the Pharaoh beside him.

'Maybe they are related. Kaiba and the Blue-Eyes White Dragon are on the tablet in the museum, aren't they? He had the Millennium Rod... and you have the Puzzle. This priest has the Eye. They can't just be coincidences.'

Gentiana nods to Atem's understanding of events. ]

「 So, then, mighty dragon. You will not aid our cause to protect our Kingdom? Should it and the Pharaoh fall, then so shall your Oasis! 」

[ The dragon rumbles lowly and his eyes close. ] 「 Beg all you might wish, High Priest of Egypt. Find those who will battle for you as one bows to a master. Mine and I will not. 」

[ The High Priest glares. The force behind it is enough to make Yugi take a step back towards both Atem and Lunafreya, whose hand remains on his shoulder to ground him. The Priest turns then and gestures to the stone tablet on the wall. ]

「 Bring forth the Stone Tablet! Bind the dragon 」

[ Hraesvelgr's golden eyes shift from each of the humans at the scene. His mighty jaw opens to let out a displeased roar, his wings attempting to spread to break from the room. The priests split into two groups. One summons the tablet from the wall, the other begin to chant a spell. Magical seals appear around the white dragon's wings and feet despite how he struggles. Those golden eyes shift to the tablet as it rises from the wall in which it was lodged in. ]

「 Shatter it! 」

[ The small group of priests look between one another in uncertainty. However, they relent regardless. The tablet that once housed the mighty white dragon suddenly falls from its great height and hits the stone ground below the platform they stand on. As it impacts it shatters into thousands of pieces.

Yugi can't help but stare at the scene as it unfolds. The circles that bind the white dragon cut into him, only to make it cry in pain. Cracks begin to form around Hraesvelgr as that which had bound him to the world of man shattered. Finally, the magical seals cut entirely into the massive creature. ]

「 You stain your blood with the lust of power. 」 [ Those striking golden eyes focus in on the Priest who refuses to back down. ] 「 Blinded you are, and it will cause the downfall of the Kingdom which you hold so dear, Priest! 」

[ Hraesvelgr raises his head to let out one final roar. It echoes through the building, shaking the tablets that are still resting in the room. Light rays spring from his broken body and in a blink of an eye the once mighty dragon is nothing more than light dust showering the room. ]

[ifthereiswill]

I suppose the sight of them would be quite a shock. And if all you know is heat and sand, a being of ice and snow would be even more startling.

[ But somehow, Atem just knows that people don't often take kindly to things that are unfamiliar or that they don't understand. He doubts that the reception Hraesvelgr and his companion received was a very open and welcoming one. His initial response is to think poorly of them, but then he has to admit that he probably would have reacted similarly if he were in that position.

And then he glances towards Yugi once more, adding: 'No, you're right, this can't be merely a coincidence. There must be something connecting them, although I couldn't tell you what that might be.'

He's cut off from adding any further comments as the scene continues to unfold, but he can already tell that it's only going to get worse from here.

And something about the continued references to the Pharaoh only makes him frown. He wonders why the Pharaoh can't speak for himself, or if that's merely a protocol of the kingdom, that the High Priest is also the voice of the Pharaoh in moments like this.

When it becomes clear what the priest intends to do, Atem's hands clench tightly into fists. Clearly something magical in nature is occurring here, but all Atem can see is that disrespect is being done to the white dragon, and he's not certain that he likes what he's witnessing. Even if the dragon is in error, surely there's a better way of handling this than what is unfolding before their eyes.

It all seems to happen so quickly, from the dragon being bound to the seals cutting into him. And the next thing Atem knows, the dragon roars and disappears into a shower of dust.

A sound bursts from Atem's throat then: something wordless but clearly distressed by what just happened. Even if the priest had his reasons for doing what he did, it hardly seems right. Of course, these events have already transpired and there's no way to undo them, but that doesn't stop Atem from feeling an intense rage that feels like it's coming from somewhere deep inside himself that's been sealed away for a very long time.

Of course, it's a fleeting sensation, and it slips away from him again even as he tries to take hold of it. ]

[inheritedpuzzle]

[ Yugi nods. 'It has to be the Millennium Items. It's what connects us together.'

Whatever happened to his other self three thousand years ago is clearly coming to a head to finish in the modern day. Or, maybe it's repeating in some way? It's hard for Yugi to tell when so little of the information is at their disposal. Though, everything he is seeing right now is loads more than anything else they've been given regarding the past. He's grateful for it and intends to thank Gentiana once her story is over.

That doesn't mean he had expected to see what he has. There's a shock that grips him at the sight of it all. He has always seen the spirits of the duel monsters survive battles. They return to fight another day -- but not now. He sees the dragon who wanted no part in wars or battles be, plainly, murdered in front of him. How can that be justified? How can this Priest, whoever he is, decide something's life isn't worthy simply because they won't fight? Everything he's seen shows the spirits of the duel monsters are intelligent creatures.

It really is nothing but murder.

His own shock is shattered by the shout the spirit of the Millennium Puzzle lets out. Yugi's gaze pulls away from the scene to look at Atem. He stares for only a moment before squeezing his arm tightly. He's seen his other self angry with an intent of righteousness, but, he's never sounded like he has in that moment. Even Lunafreya is startled by the sudden movement that Yugi makes, looking down at him as he tries to anchor the spirit she can't see. ]

The Head Priest kept those he had sealed away locked inside their tablets, [ Gentiana continues as if what had transpired mattered little. ] He and his others of the council of the Pharaoh used them to protect their Kingdom. Save one, the Frostbearer. Even the Head Priest was fearful of what might happen should she be unleashed in battle. She had loyalty to the creature he had sentenced to death, not to their Kingdom.

[ Gentiana begins to move again as the image of the priests fade away like sand on the wind. She comes to stand at another side of the platform. The fire in the lamps flicker, and distantly, footsteps can be heard once again. ]

The Frostbearer lie in wait, sealed in the prison that the once Head Priest had placed her in. Her heart once again grew cold to the wills of mankind. The Pharaoh passed and his son took the throne. [ Her closed gaze shifts towards Atem and Yugi then. She pauses to let the implication hang in the air before continuing. ] A great battle took the Kingdom between light and dark. The Frostbearer knew little of it as she remained imprisoned. By the end the Kingdom lay in ruin, and the throne passed to the successor. The new Pharaoh took the throne and set about changing how the Kingdom would continue on for thousands of years more.

[ Yugi blinks and looks up at all of the tablets that seem to climb above them. His eyes settle on where he had once seen the Egyptian Gods. The tablets of the three were faded and their images removed from it. His eyes narrow slightly.

His mouth opens to ask what happened to the Gods, but his attention is drawn back to the steps that lead up to their platform. The source of the softer footsteps comes into view. A tall woman with her hair hidden in a shroud and an all familiar Millennium Item around her neck joins them then. Her eyes raise past the small group to look at the seemingly endless rows of tablets. ]

--Ishizu!? [ Yugi can't help but shout the name at the woman who does not answer.

Instead, 'Ishizu' turns to look over her shoulder as another set of footsteps can be heard. ]