[No.

No.

Thanks to Ankhsunatem's diligent (and hypnotic) sleuthing, Atem knows exactly what Ryou just remembered.

Before Ryou can do anything else, Atem pulls him in tight, into a firm hug, giving as much touch as possible.]

I know. I know.

[Atem doesn't say, it's all right. It isn't. Ryou worked hard on that, and the other Ryou was a bastard to break it. This was an attack on Ryou's heart, just like the destruction of the collar, and Ryou's allowed to feel that wound for what it is.

He could take the other Ryou's head off himself right now, if it were here.

But, instead, he has to fight on the other front, the one meant to heal, not harm.]

I'll help you with it, this time. Would that be all right? It's like I said that first time, in the dream. I'm pretty good with my hands.

[He's so mad, though. How dare anyone strike Ryou like this.]