synthneon | YGO PSL | ❝ i am not lying, i am just trying to find my way in to you. ❞

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YGO PSL | ❝ i am not lying, i am just trying to find my way in to you. ❞

( continued from yonder! )

[ Her other hand raises and gestures to the bed behind him. It had been a set of normal circumstances in getting ready to rest for the night. Even down to the fact she was dressed for bed. Unspoken, of course is how she misses his presence. It hardly matters in their current circumstances -- or at all. Pinning for one does none of them any good. Priorities and needs will always shift, and, Lunafreya has always believed those come before wants and desires.

Although she has been known to be young and naive in such ways.

Lunafreya shifts her gaze back to him in order to answer his next question. "Answer" that is. He has been able to understand her thus far at least.

Then, a change in the air.

Yugi appears beside Atem. He looks between Lunafreya and his partner. ]

Other Me? What's going on?

[ Lunafreya glances at the space where she feels the shift in the air. She turns back to surveying the room with one hand remaining on his shoulder to help her stay upright. A hand raises out beside her in order to try and summon her Trident. That, as it turns out, was the wrong decision to make. Her arm starts to shake as it feels sharp pricks make its way up her skin.

A soundless gasp leaves her at the sudden pain. In a sweeping moment, she crumbles back down to the ground where she had once stood.

Yugi's attention snaps to her as it sinks in that they're in her room. ]

Luna?!

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[ Well, Yugi is correct about one thing. It is high time that the two of them learned more about Lunafreya's world and the forces alive in it. 'Yes. It's something that we should have done a long time ago.' But time hasn't always been on their side; it seems as though the moment has presented itself now, however.

And if Lunafreya still sees herself as weak, well, it's nothing compared to how Atem views himself. He's the weak one here, even though, as she thought once, he keeps getting knocked back down regardless of how many times he tries to pick himself back up. The storm in his mind is growing louder by the moment, attempting to drown out the voices of those close to him.

It's fitting in an ironic sort of way. Lunafreya's voice has temporarily been silenced, but the lingering effects of Dartz's actions now are working on silencing the others who help keep him grounded and in the moment.

In response to Lunafreya's tightening of her grip, he does the same with the hold he has on her. She won't be slipping away from him, not if he can help it. His mind might slip away from them both, but even then, he still doesn't plan on letting go.

He lets Gentiana's answer sweep over him and settle in; no, he still doesn't understand exactly what they need to do, but it all boils down to one thing: help Lunafreya. ]

Consider it done. [ Except, for the life of him, he can't tell what needs to be done first. ] Is there any more information that you can give us?

[ Yugi nods. They know pieces here and there - almost like a puzzle. She acts as a bridge between worlds at, apparently, some cost to herself. She heals people and guides them. Gentiana, her companion, is truly an ancient duel monster who might have been able to rival the Egyptian Gods, but now has a human form. Lunafreya can summon all sorts of duel monsters that he has never seen cards of before. Her ancestors did the same thing.

... but why? Is it really just as simple as another ancient kingdom felt it was better than the Shadow Games?

'Maybe I can ask Gentiana while you stay here with Luna?'

Gentiana looks to the young woman in the ancient Pharaoh's arms. There is much more information that can be shared. What is relevant or even needed for this moment is what remains to be seen. She takes a moment to find the answer as Pryna rests her head against Atem's leg and Umbra looks between all those present in the room. ]

While the Oracle will use her own Ba to speak, summon, and send my kind... any member of your kind has the capability of doing such. Pharaoh, [ Gentiana's cool gaze turns back to him then. ] The Orichalcos Great Levianthan would have come for the Oracle even if she had not known you or your vessel. She can stand in the way of any that might threaten either world. She would have remained a target to not sacrifice to their God, but to eliminate. Do not put needless responsibility for her station on yourself.

[ Yugi looks between Gentiana and Atem then. A horrified expression comes over his face, mixed in with anger. ]

They went after Luna?! But, she doesn't duel--

[ Gentiana raises a finger to interrupt Yugi, but does not press it to his person. ] The Oracle might summon us to do battle as they did in the ancient days. It was this way she fought and won. The Oracle is someone of great value to both our kinds, but do not forget, she is not frail or unable to fight. She might summon the most mighty of my kind. For that reason alone, she will be a target of those who wish to throw the world into chaos. The girl knew this when she accepted her destiny.

[ Atem's mind is also turning with the facts that they know about Lunafreya and Gentiana and the world that they come from. His understanding is largely the same as Yugi's, but he also wonders about the reasoning behind the way the two worlds have seemingly intersected.

'Is that what you want to do, Yugi?' He won't ask it of him, or even expect it. At least, there's no reason that he can't see for why that conversation can't happen while all four of them are in this room. Well, six with Pryna and Umbra. If his hands weren't full with holding Lunafreya, he'd move one to scratch at Pryna's ears or to pet her on the head.

He listens carefully as Gentiana explains, not wanting to miss a word or to misunderstand her. Logically, he comprehends that which she speaks of, but he can't help but think that he must take responsibility for this, regardless of her admonition telling him not to. ]

That may be so, but if the Leviathan had ceased to exist in this world, that would have been one less threat against her. Of course I understand that another threat may very well have risen up in its place, but I- [ He pauses, shaking his head. ]

This world that Yugi and I have come to know... [ The world of Duel Monsters, he means, and everything that it contains, including individuals like Dartz. ] The two of us hold no small amount of responsibility for it, as holders of a Millennium Item.

[ He believes his responsibility is greater, but there's no ignoring the fact that Yugi is the one who unlocked the Millennium Puzzle in the first place. They both have a shared responsibility to act wisely and to deal with trouble when it arises. ]

I believe that this could have been avoided, if only I hadn't- [ He breaks off there, unable to finish that sentence. This is no shortcoming or failure on Yugi's part, only his own. And Gentiana would know better than he does, as far as Lunafreya knowing what she was taking on when she became the Oracle, but he still can't help but feel that this could have all been prevented.

But at the same time, he knows that there is only one thing he can do now. He can't go back and undo his mistakes, but he can move forward and be there for Lunafreya. ]

If she is a target, then we have to help defend her.

[ Suddenly, where there was doubt and regret in his voice, now there's only resolve. He knows what he has to do now, and he just hopes that Yugi will understand. It might be an inevitability that Lunafreya will find herself in harm's way, but surely that doesn't mean that her friends can't help protect her and fight for her as she does her work as the Oracle. ]

[ Yugi watches the exchange quietly. He can tell that Gentiana insists that Lunafreya's current state is not Atem's fault, but his other self still wants to carry the responsibility. Yugi doesn't know either way. He wasn't there to see what had happened in the fall out of his being sealed away. All he knows for sure is that playing the Seal of Orichalcos has left a lingering damaging effect on his partner, and Lunafreya has been doing everything she can to help him correct it.

Then, Atem's tone changes, and Yugi can't help but smile brightly at it. That's the person he knows his other self to be. Confident in what he has decided to do, and moving forward regardless. He nods in agreement. He'll do whatever he can to help Lunafreya. She's a friend, regardless of the bond between herself and Atem. Yugi might not stand confident as Atem does in all things, but he does when it concerns his friends.

'Unless you think Gentiana is going to tell us here.' He glances at Lunafreya. 'And if you think Luna is alright enough...' ]

A bold statement the Pharaoh makes claim to. The Oracle is ever an enemy of those who have machinations to upset our worlds. She would strive to keep both of you safe from those that wish to harm her. [ She pauses then, and a genuine fond smile briefly touches her smile. ] Even so, the Lady finds comfort in the resolve shown by the Pharaoh and his vessel... for the girl is precious to the Lady.

[ Lunafreya remains unmoved from where she rests in Atem's arms. Perhaps more of her weight has shifted to him as she lacks the conviction to hold herself up in that moment. Where fear paralyzes her, guilt has started to rise. They had agreed that when Yugi was restored that they must put themselves aside for his benefit. What, then, is she doing clinging to him and begging him not to leave her? In her mind it encroaches on that agreement.

And yet... she cannot stop herself from clinging onto him.

She must seem unable to keep to her word in this moment. Weak and pathetic are one thing. Being unable to keep to her promises and break them...

Her weight truly does shift onto him at that as her head lowers even more. ]

[ Atem looks at Gentiana in surprise then, because he'd thought that the dark-haired woman disliked him. The last thing that he expected to see or hear from her was a smile of approval, and those words plainly stating her pleasure at seeing the resolute stance he'd taken.

He doesn't comment on her words or Yugi's, at least not at this present moment, because he feels Lunafreya shifting in his arms, placing more of her weight on him. He doesn't mind this, because he'll support her with everything that he has, even if she places all of her weight upon him.

And yes, they had made that agreement, but that was before this happened and before she found herself completely shaken and spent. Now, the last thing in his mind is any thoughts of their agreement and of how they might be coming close to breaking it. All that matters is being there for her, and he knows that Yugi would understand.

How can he show her that he doesn't think any less of her because of this moment at hand? Their agreement still stands, and it hasn't been broken by any of this. When she places more of her weight onto him and as her head dips further down, that's when he leans in and plants a light kiss on her forehead, not even thinking about how Gentiana and Yugi alike will witness his actions.

He still keeps his eyes on her, but now he has a question for Gentiana. ]

There is still very much that Yugi and I don't know about the world that she, and you, come from. We know that she is the Oracle, and that those who would cause trouble see her as a threat. But there's more that we don't know, isn't there?

[ He pauses, glancing back at Lunafreya, brushing another kiss, lighter than the first, against her skin. ]

Would you be willing to tell us more? [ He does his best to make his tone and his words respectful. They need whatever information she'll tell them, and the last thing he intends is to anger her by not being respectful enough. ]

[ Yugi understands and further more encourages it. Why wouldn't he? His own arrangement with Atem is that he'll ask when he wants to spend time with Lunafreya. Of course, Yugi has no idea of the agreement that the two made. From his point of view? The two are putting up more barriers than is really necessary.

Her gaze lifts the moment he kisses her forehead. Her eyes meet his immediately. The usually bright blue has dulled slightly as the obvious tears still continue to gather. Even then, she does what she can to hide the fact that they have been sliding down her face. She knows she must have fallen from some height in his eyes. The girl who can support the world and pull others from their darkness has stumbled and fallen herself. She will find a way to push herself up and continue forward even as her own body fails her. It feels as if her body has already begun to fail. Gentiana is certain she will regain her strength, but, she truly wonders if that is at possible.

It could very well be for the best. Perhaps the world has no need for Oracles anymore. The order of the world which upheld the Oracles has fallen away due to wars and the shift of people's views. Duelists can make bonds with their Duel Monsters now. Technology can take the place of magic. Even her own brother had insisted it was an archaic way of thought and ceremony that was no longer needed.

What if she had used what was left of the magic afforded to her lineage through the Oracles? Now that the Great Orichalcos Leviathan has been defeated, all that would be left to yet threaten things would be the Shadow Games. An ancient tradition still breathing in ways, but, Yugi and his friends have proven they do not need an Oracle to be able to handle them. If so, then what will she do then? Her life has been her duty and her destiny. If there is no longer a need...

Lunafreya lowers her head once more and hides her face in the shirt Atem wears. He has said so otherwise multitudes of times, yet the doubt that she belongs among his friends remains. What point would there be to have her near if she is to no longer be the Oracle? They had agreed that their relationship came secondary to anything Yugi might need or want. She has stepped to the side as to not interfere with anything Yugi and Anzu might do. Does she truly have a place with them, or, should she remain when they all return to England?

Gentiana frowns at the sight of Lunafreya. ]

What more would the Pharaoh and his vessel wish to know? The Oracle comes from your world. She is born, lives, and dies as a human would. She may see and hear our world, but she remains of yours. [ Her green-gold gaze moves from Yugi then back to Atem. ] For all the power given to the Oracle, she is but a mortal woman.

[ To Atem, the barriers truly are necessary. It still remains unfair to Lunafreya, but the simple fact of the matter is that he is someone who died a long time ago, and now the only way that he lives on is because his spirit is attached to the Millennium Puzzle. He isn't even truly alive, and that is most certainly doing a disservice to the woman who's given so much of herself to him.

And as for Yugi, well, Atem is still very much resolved to see him finally have his own wish come true and be able to come together with Anzu. He feels no small amount of guilt for finally making his own wish known to Lunafreya and for causing her to feel as though she must ignore her own heart and her own wants and step to one side. He loves her; that is not something he's ever doubted, but how can he claim to love her and ask her to give up so much just to be with him?

He thinks no less of her because she's fallen and is having difficulty pulling herself back up. How could he, when the same thing happened to him? There is no judgment or displeasure in his mind, only love and the desire to see her back on her feet once more.

And if the world has no need for Oracles, then surely they have no need for a dusty old Pharaoh like him. The time will come when Yugi is able to stand on his own and no longer has a need for him to stand by his side. What will he do then? He can't be sure, but it seems to him that his own usefulness is also running its course. Is it possible for him to remain, not as a help with dueling, but merely as himself? But he also is having difficulty imagining Yugi growing up, perhaps raising his own family, and still having him linger on as his ghostly companion.

Even Lunafreya will have found a way to move on, to begin a new chapter in her life; he's certain of it, even if little things that Gentiana has said point to an unsettling fact that perhaps Oracles do not get to enjoy a long and happy life. No, he just sees that in the grand scheme of things, he's the one with little use or longevity.

For the moment, though, he just continues to hold onto her, hand going to the back of her head to provide comforting strokes through her hair. His other arm tightens even more against her, hoping that his presence will continue to provide her comfort and a foundation for her to cling to.

Gentiana's answer surprises him a little. From his perspective, Lunafreya's world, the world of spirits and otherworldly beings, seems far more mystical than Gentiana's straightforward words make it sound. He casts a glance back to Yugi, as if to say that wasn't the answer he expected. ]

I'm not sure. I can't help but feel that there's still so much we don't know or understand, but perhaps it isn't our place to.

[ He supposes that anything he might ask would only be seen as inconsequential to the dark-haired woman, so he falls silent rather than continue to speak. ]

Edited (html :|) 2021-07-26 19:55 (UTC)

[ What he has asked her to sacrifice may be painful. That is not something she would deny. Instead, she would counter that they would be things she has already forgone as possibilities long before she met Yugi or Atem. She decided as a young girl that if her calling required all of her, then, she would give it. Her elder brother was the one who was set to continue the family line and heirs. Ravus has no love, want, or need for the tradition of Oracles. He no doubt would see that custom changed for his own daughters and granddaughters. If that is to be so? Then, Lunafreya would have no issue with being the Last Oracle.

Maybe that is what she is meant to be.

They have never discussed the possibility of Atem's days being numbered. Lunafreya has not seen the need to. As of now, they can see no way to break his ties to the Millennium Puzzle, or how he even came to be tied to the ancient artifact to begin with. It has remained a distant possibility in her mind. One, nonetheless, she is aware that may happen some day. All spirits must cross on at one point or another. It remains an outcome that has always caused her to feel a dull ache in her heart. Now, in this moment, the thought of him crossing over to that place...

A soundless sob breaks through her efforts to hide her tears from them. Only Atem might know of it, and even then he might feel the way her body moves rather than hear the lack of sound. The girl no longer wishes to be left alone. She has seen too many loved ones leave her in one form or another. While reality will tell her one thing, she does not want the soul she has chosen to be her king leave her as well. Not now. Even if he has stated it in many ways that he will stay? She cannot help but feel that he might slip away if she lets go of him.

Gentiana's eyes fall to the girl in the Pharaoh's arms. There is much to be shared about the Oracles. How they came to be, how they are chosen, what it requires of a woman who accepts a calling such as it. However, she feels it is not the time to share such information. The morning would bring light and such conversations. For now? Something gentler and truer to the current state of the girl both can see strikes Gentiana as what might need to be shared. ]

Lunafreya did not wish to bring those she considers friends to her home at first. [ Her speech changes then, as does the expression on her face. It becomes something more human. Especially as she reaches out to further pull the blankets down. ] While this was the place in which she grew up, it was far from happiness that she found here.

[ Yugi eyes the bed before looking back to the three. His eyes linger on Atem as he nods in agreement. None of this is really what they'd expect. 'Luna mentioned that her mother died when she was young. Back in the Battle City Finals...' ]

She knew not the father that helped bring her into this world... and her mother spent much time fulfilling the duties given unto the Oracle. There was a time when she and her brother had been close. What small family remained all fell apart once her mother was murdered.

[ At that, Yugi's head snaps up. He practically pushes himself forward to grab onto Gentiana's arm, demanding the once goddess look at him. ]

Murdered?! You can't be serious--she never said that was how...

[ Atem notices it the second that Lunafreya's soundless sob bursts from her; he's known the whole time that she's let her emotions overflow, but now it seems that something else, something more, is distressing her. He pulls in his arms around her, and for just a moment, everything else going on in the background fades away. Of course he knows that they're still surrounded by their companions, but his priority in this moment is her. ]

Luna. [ He notes, perhaps not for the first time, how much he likes that name of hers. Her full name is beautiful too, of course, but whenever he says the shortened version, he just gets struck by how fitting a name it is for her. And now, when he says it, if she can hear it through her tears, there's nothing but love in his voice. ]

I'm right here. I won't be going anywhere, I promise. [ It's strange to think how quickly and completely his priorities have shifted, but now, the last thing he wants is to ever leave any of them. He can't imagine leaving Lunafreya behind, and of course he never wants to leave Yugi, unless Yugi himself comes to the realization that he no longer needs him. If that ever happened, of course he'd have no choice, but he decided not that long ago to just hold onto the fact that for now, he remains here with them.

He presses another loving kiss to the side of her head, and lowering his voice again so only they can hear it, he adds: ] I love you, Luna. [ It doesn't feel wrong to say those words; in fact, those words feel so right that he could just repeat them to her again. ] I wanted to make sure you know that.

[ And then as Gentiana continues to speak, Atem turns his gaze back to her, while still keeping his firm hold on Lunafreya. ]

Then I suppose that we should consider ourselves honored that she allowed us to visit her here. [ And he does. He didn't take it lightly that she asked them to come see her here.

'Yes. I had a feeling that her story was a sad one, at least in part.' And now it seems that they're about to get a bigger picture of her story.

When Gentiana drops the bombshell that Lunafreya's mother was murdered, Atem's fists clench even though he still keeps his hold on her. Yugi's outburst echos his own feelings, but he also adds: ]

I didn't know that was what had happened. [ He has to pause to let the gravity of this wash over him. Now it's clear that the hand that Lunafreya has been dealt is a hard one, but it's also clear that she's stronger than most, perhaps even stronger than she realizes, although it isn't his place to make assumptions. ]

[ Her head raises as he says her name. Of course she hears him. No matter how far her own mind or spirit might be? His voice catches her attention. If he or Yugi were to ever need her? She would be at their sides as soon as possible. It is not simply because of a concept or ideal of duty. She loves both of them in very separate ways and wants nothing but the best for them. If remains in her power to give it to them? She will.

Lunafreya's gaze raises to his. Still, she tries to hide her tear stained face. There is no hiding the redness in her eyes. Her head tilts into his touch, wanting to believe every word he has said. She knows that he loves her. There is no question to that or how he desires to stay beside her. The questions raise when it comes to what she feels she might ask of him to help her. She feels it is not her place to even ask to spend time with him, let alone ask to speak outside of the notebook she had sent him.

How much of her selfishness can she share that might overshadow Yugi's life? The only answer Lunafreya could decide on was simple: none. Somewhere between Yugi returning and their stay in Flordia afterwards, she found herself believing that she could only spend time with either of them if they were the ones to ask. Of course she misses speaking with them. Even more so, she misses the man she loves. But, how could she ask either of them spend time away from the other to spend it with her? Especially after seeing the need that both souls have to the other they call partner. She would rather try to heal and recuperate on her own than be seen as a threat to that.

She tilts her head up by a fraction and moves to tell him that she loves him as well. No matter the imposed separation she believes she needs to do, or what little time they spend together, she loves him. The words are never able to leave her. It causes another fresh wave of pain, and her eyes close to stop the tears that threaten to come. They do not need words to communicate, but she wishes to speak them now more than ever.

Lunafreya hides her face in the crook of his neck. It matters little to her that both Yugi and Gentiana can see it. What is the difference? They are aware of her condition and of how much she and Atem love one another. This might well be the last time she can hold onto him and seek his comfort if she does remain in this empty house. She might stay back while they return to Japan if she truly does not belong with them. If that, then, it hardly matters to her that they might see it. They may want nothing to do with her once Gentiana shares what she has taken great lengths to keep to herself. Not out of fear or judgement, but, out of not wishing to drag their spirits down further with her woeful tale. ]

Of course neither the Pharaoh or his vessel would know. Looking into the affairs of a world away would not cross your minds. Especially events of so long ago. [ She gently shakes her head, letting the raven colored hair shift with the human notion she rarely has. ] The former Oracle and her children visited a country within Europe - one that still has a king. The King and the former Oracle had been friends for a number of years and wished for their children to find a similar friendship. However, an assassination attempt took place on the King from his enemies. The King made it out with his son as the Oracle had bought time for them. A wayward soldier struck out at Ravus and the Oracle took what would have killed her son. Both Ravus and Lunafreya witnessed the event first hand and were retrieved by the King's guard. It, however, damaged Ravus's view on the calling the Fleurets have to their station. So much that when Lunafreya decided to undergo the training needed to become the Oracle, he left her to do it on her own.

[ Yugi's eyebrows turn upwards. ] She wasn't entirely alone though. She had you, didn't she?

[ The brown-green eyes turn to look at Yugi's ghostly appearance. ] Yes... but it not the same.

[ If only they could speak to each other; yes, he can speak to her, and she can express some of what she feels through her actions and the look in her eyes, but there still is a limit to how much he can perceive about her actions and their meanings. If he knew what she was thinking, that she felt she had to distance herself from him because it was in his and Yugi's best interest, he would do his best to quickly counter that with the truth.

He and Lunafreya can still be together when time allows and still respect Yugi's right to have his own life. He doesn't really see a need for a complete separation between the two of them, and if they were to both do that, it would only cause them more heartache. As it is, whether or not he understands the true meaning behind her despair, he can see how thoroughly she's being hurt by seemingly everything, including whatever it is that's currently afflicting her. ]

I'll stay with you for as long as you need me to, even if that turns out to be forever. [ He briefly spares a glance for Yugi, knowing the improbability of his words, but he can't imagine separating from Lunafreya now, not when she's like this.

His words aren't a lie, which is what he fears she'll believe them to be... a lie to placate her. He means them with complete certainty, however. He might not know that she's thinking this could be their last time together, but even so, he intends to stay with her here or elsewhere for as long as she needs him. ]

I suppose you're right, and even if we did know, there's little to be done about events long gone. But- [ He shakes his head. To think that way feels so incredibly callous, and barring an unwanted influence such as the seal of Orichalcos, he would never allow himself to do that. ]

There is evil in this world, but it is wrong that families should be torn apart because of people who act with no consideration for others. [ And here, he has to push aside the voice in his head that tells him he's no better than the evil people he speaks of. After all, it wasn't so long ago that he, too, acted completely selfishly and ignored the wants and needs of those closest to him. ]

No, I imagine it wasn't the same. [ He can't remember his own growing up years, or what his parents might have been like, or even if they were present in his life. But he doesn't have to know that to be able to imagine the void that must have been left in the lives of Lunafreya and Ravus. ]

How could it ever be the same again? [ Then, as if driven by a need to further comfort the girl in his arms, he reaches out to lightly stroke her hair. ]

[ Yugi's gaze softens at the glance from Atem. All he can do is shake his head. He won't try to pull them apart. It's obvious that Lunafreya needs someone there for her. They can't just leave her in this state. He knows what it's like to be left alone and struggle with battering emotions. If she's been alone most of her life through all of that? Then, the least they can do is make sure this time she's not alone.

Then, his shoulders drop and his eyes move to the floor for a moment. How could it ever be the same again? It's something he knows better than he tells anyone. It's just him, his mom, and Grandpa in the shop and family house (and now Atem). His father... nothing really fills that void left when a parent is no longer there. He can relate to what Lunafreya must feel, but, he knows it isn't the same feeling. Nothing can be close to watching the only parent you have die in front of you. At least he had his Grandpa and his mother, then eventually his friends, and his other self. Who has she had outside of Gentiana, Umbra and Pryna? It doesn't sound like she's had her brother to help her through any of it. At least, not in the way she needs.

He only looks up slightly when he sees Lunafreya move to curl more into Atem's arms. He's never felt jealousy or even sadness seeing the two express themselves to one another. Yes, it's his body that Atem is moving, but, Yugi knows he isn't looking at himself. He knows that for all intents and purposes? It's their body. He sees his other self having just as much right to a physical form as he does. That's why he doesn't mind any of this or their relationship.

It's not like he has one anyways. ]

What more information the two of you seek may be found in the morning. For now, Lunafreya must rest. As must the two of you. However you might decide. [ Gentiana raises a hand to Lunafreya's arm one last time before she bows to the three. Yugi steps to the side to let her pass. ] Umbra will remain outside should anything be needed. It seems as if Pryna refuses to leave.

[ Yugi turns his attention to the white pet. She nudges Atem's arm one last time before turning her head to look at Yugi. He blinks but nods, unsure really what to say or do. He's met Umbra more than he has her. Regardless of that fact, Pryna stands and pads over to one of the blue couches in the small seating arrangement. She hops up and lays down, watching as Umbra follows Gentiana out of the room. The door clicks as it shuts gently.

After a moment of silence, he finally turns to look at Atem. He glances at Lunafreya again. It might be best if he speaks to his other self through their bond. He doesn't want to upset her more.

'How do you want to handle this, Other Me?' He feels as if it should be Atem's decision. He's the one that Lunafreya needs the most right now. ]

[ The scene shifts quickly enough, with Gentiana acting decisively, and Umbra following suit like the loyal companion that he is. But Atem's attentions are still on the girl in his arms, but also on his partner. There's something about his posture and the look in his eyes that worries him. Freeing one of his hands, he reaches out for him so that he can give him a squeeze on his shoulder.

Before he answers his question, he asks one of his own. 'Are you all right, Yugi?' It's their responsibility as partners to look out for each other, and he intends to continue doing that, even in the midst of situations like this one.

He nods his agreement with Gentiana's decision, because it's clear that Lunafreya really needs to rest, and he doesn't want to keep her from that any more than he already has. Finally, once Gentiana and Umbra have left and Pryna has moved herself to curl up on one of the couches, that's when Atem answers Yugi.

'If it's all right with you, I would like to stay with her, at least for this evening. If not, if you have other plans in mind, I understand.' It's his desire to stay by Lunafreya's side, but he won't encroach on Yugi's right to go about his own business, no matter how much he feels compelled to remain with her. ]

[ A nod. 'I'm alright.'

He really is. He had to make peace with the situation growing up ages ago. It does still bother him from time to time. However, it's nothing like what is going on with Lunafreya at the moment. That's their priority now.

'It's fine. All I was going to do was go to sleep.' He gives his other self a bit of a smile. 'Let me know if something happens. Or, if you need anything. Okay?'

Yugi takes the last step he needs to in order to be next to them. He raises a hand and gently places it on Lunafreya's back. It only rests there first a moment before Yugi decides to retire to his soul room for the night.

He'd like to stay up with the two and make sure both are alright... but, they need time to themselves. They don't have as nearly as much together as he'd lik. He can force that though. Yugi sighs and looks at the ceiling of his room. Maybe it will help both of them realize they need to be together more. ]

[ 'If you're certain.' He knows he'll never be able to fully turn off the worry he has for his partner, even when they're safe and not facing any particular threats at the moment. It's not that he believes Yugi can't handle himself and weather anything that comes along, but they are partners and that means supporting each other through everything.

'All right. And I won't hesitate to let you know if something should happen.' He's well aware that Yugi cares a lot about Lunafreya too, so should something change overnight, or if either of them need something, he'll keep him updated. But he won't disturb his sleep needlessly.

'Good night, Yugi. And thank you.' It occurs to him then that maybe he doesn't thank his partner enough. He's always been so supportive and helpful when things are hard, and of course Atem appreciates him far more than words can say. But still, it just feels right to say those words aloud.

Once it's just himself and Lunafreya, and Pryna curled up on the couch, he turns his attention back to her. What should he do now? Should he move both of them back over to the bed and place her in it while he stays nearby, keeping watch?

Perhaps he should simply ask her what she wishes to do, even if she won't be able to voice a reply. ]

Luna, are you ready to sleep now? [ He knows that she needs rest, but he wants to give her the option of deciding. ]

[ Yugi nods one last time to reassure his other self. He knows that they will always worry about one another. They care about one another - they're brothers. He likes to think that their bond will remain through anything that might come. At least, that's what he hopes.

Lunafreya shifts as he addresses her. She is vaguely aware that Gentiana and Yugi have left them, but she has done her utmost to pull her emotions back into herself. Even if she would lay her heart out if Atem asked it of her? She knows that he might need to leave at a moments notice if Yugi needed something. As such, she attempts to contain everything once again and pull herself from him.

No, she is not ready to sleep or rest. She doubts she will find either. It is something she knows she needs, and she is certain Atem would insist on it. Just as she had for him. Her head remains lowered with her bangs covering her eyes as she moves her hands from his back to his shoulders as an aid to help herself back up. Her body aches and her legs shake at the movement, but she pushes herself to walk the few steps to the bed regardless. Then, she eases herself down onto it and removes the black shawl that matches her nightgown.

There she remain sitting where the bed covers have been pulled down. After a moment, her hands move out towards him. She gently take the Puzzle that hangs around his neck into her hands and looks it over. Her fingers trace the carved details of where the pieces fit together. There has always been a reverence to mystical item merely by what it is and can do. However, she is very much aware it is what keeps the soul she loves bound to the mortal world. Something that she is grateful for, but also must wonder if it means that his time with them is limited.

Lunafreya gently raises the Puzzle and places a kiss to it. She is aware it might seem odd, but, it is her way of trying to communicate she loves him regardless of his state of being. Within Yugi's body or not. ]

[ At this moment, he doesn't intend to ask her for anything; instead, if she were to ask him for something, he'd do everything he could to give it to her. And while he won't hesitate to respond if Yugi needs him, his main priority right now is her.

When she pulls herself up and begins moving over to the bed, he's quick to follow along after her in case she should lose her balance or in case she simply needs a hand to hold onto while she moves. Even if sleep never comes to her, at least she can lie down, and if she'll allow him to, he'll lie down beside her. That way, he can keep an eye on her and be close to her if she should need anything from him or so he can call Gentiana if something comes up.

When she reaches for the Puzzle, he holds still, not entirely certain what she intends to do; he watches as her fingers trace along the details of the Puzzle and its pieces, and as he does so, he wonders what she might be thinking.

But then she places a kiss on the surface of the Puzzle, and that action makes him smile just a little. He reaches for one of her hands then and he plants a kiss of his own on top of it. ]

[ She feels as if she has no place to ask him for anything. Her condition has pulled him away from time spent with his partner, or worse yet, time Yugi might have spent with his friends. If he wishes to stay then she will hardly turn him away or ask him to leave. That is the last thing she wishes for.

A form of her usual small smile touches her face at his kiss. She has no idea if the meaning of her action made it through their metaphoric communication barrier. All she can do is hope that he has learned her small notions and the body language that accompanies it all. Despite Gentiana's assurances? She is not entirely sure that she will recover any of her magical energy, let alone her voice. Now she cannot help but wonder if that is for the best.

Perhaps the world has no more use of the Oracle. Although she imagines that Atem would argue against such an idea.

Lunafreya lets the Puzzle return to its normal resting place. Then, her hands raise to invite him to bed with her. A familiar gesture from their time fighting Dartz and his god. ]

[ Well, if that's the case, then he'll just have to find a way to give her the moon and the stars, even if he has to pluck them from the sky with his own hands. He'd give her anything he wanted, no matter how lofty an order it might seem. He believes without a doubt that that's what she deserves, and then some.

And, well, if he had any lingering doubts that she loved him, those have all but left now. And more importantly, he loves her and if he could reverse whatever's been done to her, he would. As far as he's concerned, the world still needs Oracles, and by extension her, but at the same time, it seems to him that her being the Oracle puts her in danger, and he finds that unacceptable.

For now, though, they're together and they're as safe as it's possible to be, so he simply moves to get into the bed with her so that they can lie down together. And once they're both settled, he says: ]

I'll find a way to reverse this, no matter how long it takes.

[ He'll make a pest of himself to Gentiana if he has to, but there must be something that they can do. ]

[ She would reiterate that he does not need to give her anything at all. He has given her that which she has wished for the most in her life. Her heart may ache, and she may miss him, but serving requires and element of sacrifice. His wish is to see Yugi grow and find a relationship with Anzu. If she is to truly serve then that means not only respecting his wish, but to do all in her power to make it become a reality. The only solution she has found is to step away as much as possible unless called upon. Lunafreya knows that she causes a sense of frustration within Anzu, regardless if the two have reached some sort of understanding. As long as her presence causes that reaction within the other woman... all she will do is cause strife when it is the opposite of what Atem wishes for.

The tremor in her arm remains even though it has lessened. It presents a struggle to maneuver her person once he joins her in her bed. Yet, she finds a way to lower herself without pressing her weight on it. Then, she stares down at the sheets and blankets until he has settled himself. The urge to reach out and curl into his arms is nearly overwhelming. She does not move and instead waits to see what he might want to do. What she would want steps over the metaphoric line she has drawn for herself... and she will not cross it unless invited or told to.

Her eyebrows turn up slightly at his statement before raising his gaze to his. The question is quite obvious on her face: What if it is irreversible?

Gentiana has said that it requires rest and possibly re-connection of a spiritual level. Truthfully? She is not sure she can bring herself to do such a thing. If she must re-connect with an Oracle who came before her, and they find her to have failed by letting herself fall into the state she is...

What if her own mother is the one that steps forth? What if she has not only has become a failure to her lineage, but as a daughter? She knows it is a possiblity no mater what Atem, Gentiana, or Yugi might think. ]

Edited 2021-08-08 09:52 (UTC)

[ It's true, he doesn't need to give her anything, but the fact remains that he still desires to do more for her, because if he's being honest, he hasn't been fair to her. Yes, he's been thinking about his partner and what he wishes for him, but what about her wishes? Of course he knows she'll willingly step aside, but she shouldn't have to. It should be possible for both Yugi and Lunafreya to get what they want most. So now he just has to find a way to meet the needs of his partner and the girl he's fallen in love with. There must be a way to do it. She deserves happiness just as much as Yugi does.

What he wants to do completely disregards any lines, visible or invisible, and without even the slightest hesitation, he gently places an arm around her and carefully pulls her in close, hoping he doesn't cause her any further discomfort in the process. Once she's beside him, he leans in so that their noses are touching, eyes staring into hers.

He can see the question in her eyes, and he has only one answer for it: ] I'll find a way to fix it. It can't be irreversible; I won't accept that.

[ And he might not be able to read her thoughts, but he's also thinking back to what Gentiana said. ]

If it turns out that you must meet with the Oracles from the past, and you find yourself uncertain how to approach them-

[ He knows this may not work; he might not even be able to see the Oracles, or they may not allow themselves to be seen by him. But Gentiana can see him when he's not in physical form, and so can Pryna and Umbra, so perhaps the same ideas will apply. ]

I'll speak to them for you. [ It might seem presumptuous, but he'll be her voice if she'll allow him to. ]

[ Happiness for the Oracle has always been that of conditional. Their callings take up most of their lives, and what little of it remains is all that they might have. She is certain it is a painful lesson that all who have come before her have had to learn. Atem's request merely has reminded her that what little solace she can take when she can is what will be afforded to her. There is nothing he has done wrong and nothing that he must make up to her; let alone give her. His duty is to his partner and hers is to the worlds they inhabit.

Regardless of the rolling thoughts in her mind, she follows his directions. She lays closer to him, forehead and nose pressed to his, but her gaze breaking from his. She cannot help but feel ashamed for her display. Great lengths are always taken to hide her moments of weakness. This small band of duelists and friends rely on her to be the Oracle and their friend - they need not see her at her lowest.Atem does not need to see it. He and Yugi are the ones that rely on her the most, yet she has utterly fallen to pieces within the last hour and some. That cannot continue. Even if it makes that she must bury her emotions and sort them out once they leave for Japan.

Dealing with her emotions, her past, her baggage, was not her intent at bringing them to England. There were things she wished them to see. A new place in the world to enjoy and spend the upcoming holidays without the threat of impending doom. She is aware the cultural differences, but, thought that maybe seeing how her people celebrated the festive season might help them. Especially Anzu, if she truly is to go to America after high school. Of course... there is one place in particular she wishes to take Atem. She had resolved on her own to do what she might to find information on the time that he reigned. If nothing else, context could be given, and perhaps he might find answers to the sort of king he was.

None of this, however, can be done in her current state. Which means she must recover enough to do so. If she does truly remain in England... then at the least it will be parting gifts to all of them.

Her gaze only flickers back to him at his statement of resolution. She would communicate that it is hardly necessary, but, she knows the tone in his voice. He has made his decision. Any sign of conviction needs her full support until he can stand without doubt in himself any longer. If he so wishes to speak to her ancestors - should she even need to - then it will be done.

She raises her hand and gently places it on his chest. Her heart tells her to bridge what gap remains and lay as they once had in their time in America. She knows it is what she wants, but, she cannot act upon it. Exhaustion, fear, respect of his wishes, the reason truly does not matter at the moment. She will continue to carry on as she has.

Instead, she raises her shame filled gaze back to him. Has he explained their arrangement to his partner? ]

[ What he's left unsaid thus far, because his focus needs to be on her and not on himself, is that his resolve comes and goes in waves. Yes, he knows that he'll do whatever he has to in order to help her, but he can't quite drown out that nagging voice that says this entire situation is his fault. So far, he's managed to keep himself grounded and still in the present, but it really wasn't all that long ago that he found himself paralyzed by his guilt and fears and unable to move or even speak.

That's the last thing he wants to have resurface now, but the thoughts are insidious and they're still swirling around his mind even as he tries to be strong and supportive for her.

He feels as though he has to be careful with what he says, because saying the wrong thing might only add to the pressure she's already carrying, but he wants her to know that he's with her every step of the way, and he won't be leaving her for anything in the world. ]

Luna, I- [ He's still debating with himself about whether or not he should say what's on his mind. ] I want to hear your voice again, but what I don't want...

[ Part of him still feels like he's walking a very thin line, and saying the wrong thing could send her spiraling down even further. Now he can imagine how she must have felt when their roles were reversed. ]

I don't want you feeling like you have to do anything before you're ready. You have time, as much time as you need.

[ He's just realized that there really is no time limit for this current situation. Unlike the time crunch they were under when he was rendered almost incapacitated, he doesn't see any such deadline in front of them now. ]

If you need more time to rest before you decide on an action, you should.

[ And if Gentiana or anyone else tries to contradict that, then Atem has no problems asking them to wait. The last thing he wants is to lose Lunafreya somehow, either because she pushed herself to act before she was ready, or because the pressure she's placed on herself becomes too much. Either way, the outcome is equally undesirable.

And as for this moment right in front of them, if she can't will herself to bridge the gap between them as they once did, then he'll do it for her. He moves carefully, trying to be mindful of her and her needs, but he closes that gap between them so there's no longer anything separating them.

He can't stand that look in her eyes, but he believes he understands what she's feeling, and so he tries to be as comforting as he can, reaching for a lock of her hair first, and then moving so his hand rests lightly against the back of her head.

Perhaps if he just remains with her, she'll feel safe enough to fall asleep, or simply tired enough. He hopes that if she does, she'll manage to rest, but he knows how hard it can be to sleep when one's feelings are all turned upside down.

Still, he's going to stay right here with her. ]

Is there anything that you need? [ If so, he'll move mountains to get it, whatever it might be. ]

[ Her focus remains on him once he says her name. A gentle look of surprise takes her face at his statement - even the hint of redness taking her cheeks. Whatever reaction he had expected seems to be opposite of what she gives. She never expects him to compliment her in anyway, and learning what he loves of her always takes her by surprise. She does not think herself unlovable or undeserving of his affections. More, she never seems to understand why he loves what he does of her.

Does she have time? Not as much as she might need if she is to have them enjoy the reasons why she has brought them to England. Especially him. Her gaze simply softens at his statement. A bittersweet expression takes to her face then as a smile tugs at the corner of her lips. They may not be pressed as they once were for fighting Dartz and his god. Yet, the more time she takes is less time to be with all of them. He insists that he'll be here with her through all of this ordeal. Is that truly possible? What of Yugi and his friends? They are all guests in her home. She cannot very well ignore them or ask them to wait as she recovers when she should have already done so.

The holidays are different for her culture than Yugi and Atem's adopted one. She intends to have them experience them as a way to help bring their group of friends back together and made whole again. She is a healer above all else, and not all wounds can be healed with magic or rest.

Her eyes close at the feeling of his fingers in her hair. The small motion has always brought her comfort, but perhaps now he might see how much it eases her spirits. As if it were habit, Lunafreya gently nudges his cheek with her nose in return. He always seems to find a way to bring the affectionate side of her to the surface. Even when it was merely a gentle poke to the back of his head, or now when she feels as if she has failed in her duty and calling.

The trembling in her body eases slightly once she realizes that he has brought them as close together as he can. She instinctively leans her body into his, as if they have already spent a lifetime doing so. Her hands, one still shaking, slowly slip under his shirt. They hesitantly rest on his back. The small motion is her way of bringing them together again, but, she cannot help the thoughts of fear that cause her head to lower slightly. What if this is too far? Will he tell her that what she needs, in this moment, is too much to ask for?

What does she need?

Him.

The Other Yugi, the Namless Pharaoh, the Spirit of the Millennium Puzzle, her king, Yami. Whatever name or identity he wishes to give himself. They are all parts of him as far as she is concerned and he is what she needs. His strength, his convictions, and the love he seems so readily to give if she will simply meet him at the barrier they've placed between them.

He told her that as long as he remains on this Earth she has a place with them. Then, why, does she feel she does not? She does she place more space between herself and that barrier? She needs him and yet feels she cannot even reach out to him to take his hand. She feels she cannot even ask to be at his side when that is the one thing her heart truly desires most.

Why is she so terrified that he might finally dismiss her when he has only done the opposite?

Lunafreya forces her gaze back to his. How can she express it so he might understand the answer to his question? Him, with all that he might be and may have hidden. Despite how uneven she feels in her own convictions, she tries to speak. Not only because he wishes to hear her voice. She wishes to use hers to answer him properly. Yet, no sound comes from her voice, and she feels as if those dark fingers curl around her neck again. They choke her answer that tries so desperately to leave her. ]

Edited (rips the tags apart and like rewrites it ) 2021-08-20 19:15 (UTC)

[ He's never known anyone quite like her, and maybe they moved into this state of their relationship, such as it is, relatively quickly, but he likes to think that this is more than a passing attraction. He can't speak to her feelings, but he knows that his own feelings towards her run deep and far beyond just a surface attraction.

That's why it's so hard to reconcile those feelings with the other ones that he's been wrestling with: that he isn't doing enough to repay her for everything she's given to him, and that it isn't fair of him to saddle her with someone who doesn't even fully belong in this world. But to do what his head is telling him to, namely pulling himself away because she should be in love with someone real, feels all but impossible. It's selfish, but he just can't bring himself to let her go.

They may not have very much time, but whatever time they do have here, he wants to spend every minute possible with her. But anything like going to the museum or visiting other attractions will have to wait until he's found a way to fix what's been done to her. His resolve to do so hasn't wavered; the only thing that's leaving him uncertain is the fact that he simply doesn't know how to make her better.

He can be here with her, holding and comforting her, but that won't bring her voice back, will it? If Gentiana's words can be believed, and he has no reason to doubt them, it just won't be enough.

He should be striving to find a way to set things right again, but all he wants right now is her. If she wants him, then he wants her too, and it's that desire that drives him to hold onto her gently but fiercely at the same time. If he ever had a queen in his past life, he doesn't know; but in this current life, such as it is, she's the closest thing to a queen, his queen, that he has. He wishes to keep her by his side for as long as she wants to be there. And if she ever wants to leave, then of course he'll let her go, because he only wants what's best for her, and he can't pretend that he believes keeping her with him is the best thing for her.

His life is dangerous; the encounters with Dartz have only proved that. And even if it wasn't, he can't even give her all of him and his time, because at the end of the day, he's only a ghost borrowing the form of another.

So for now, he's just going to hold onto her, but the thought is always in the back of his mind that one day, he may have to say goodbye. ]

It's all right, Luna. [ He sees the look in her eyes and he can't stand to see that. ] You don't have to speak. [ Or to force herself to. He can't imagine that that'll be good for her recovery either.

So with that in mind, he just tightens his hold on her until he's giving her the warmest embrace he can manage. ]

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