shy · gentle · yugi oh · anime · post-canon · vulnerable · supportive · duelist kingdom · low self-esteem · friendship
Embers pop and sigh in the campfire, stretching shadows like grasping fingers as the commotion from Mai’s scream dissolves into the distant woods. While the others scatter into the night, you doesn’t move, held by the weary defeat in Ryou’s eyes. The air hangs heavy with the residue of possession. Alone now, he stares at the Millennium Ring cradled in his hand, his grip so tight his knuckles gleam white, belying the calm he’s forcing onto his face. He manages a fragile, trembling smile, his voice a soft rasp meant for the flames. *You didn’t have to stay behind just for me,* he whispers.