So, yeah... When I said watching the series again while studying was bad for productivity? Terrible. I swore I wasn't going to, but this little plot bunny just wouldn't leave me alone and demanded attention. Anyway, this will be a multi-chapter fic. Not super long, definitely not as long as Regression... Right now, I'm envisioning it as including just the most obvious characters that Atem had a lot of significant interactions with. Most side characters probably won't be involved. Though, if there's a minor character you'd really love to see mentioned, let me know in a review and I'll see what I can do.
Anyway, here's the first letter.
As always, read and review! Reviews are much loved.
~Pleurez
Tea,
If you are reading this, it means that I have at long last found peace. I know you had hoped for a face to face farewell and I know this is a poor substitute. All the same, I hope you will accept this. There is too much to be said, and writing allows me to gather my thoughs.
You were never a duelist by choice. I understand that had I not come into your life, the cards and the strategies would never have been a part of your heart or soul. And yet you allowed yourself to be dragged into our world—one of shadows and monsters—without a single word of protest. I cannot express the depth of my appreciation for that.
At any point, you could have turned away. Decided that this was too much. Instead, you faced each new challenge with an optimism and perseverance that was invaluable to us all. Time and again, your faith and compassion guided us, bolstering our spirits when we needed it most. If you take nothing else from this, I pray that you appreciate your own strength. You are brave. Never let anyone try to tell you otherwise.
That said, I know this journey has been trying for you. Because of me, time and again you saw yourself and your friends dragged into danger, chased by one threat after another for years on end. Your lives were put on hold as you helped me to chase my destiny and find my purpose in this world. It is my wish that now that I have moved on, you will be free to devote yourself to your own dreams. Perhaps one day you will even find it in your heart to forgive me for all I have thrust upon you.
I thank you for never begrudging your assistance and providing support which eased the journey of a weary soul.
But more importantly, I thank you for all you have done for Yugi. You were there for him long before I, and here I am gone, and yet you remain. I know he was lonely, and you were his friend when he had no others. You lent him your strength when I could not. Because of you, I need never fear that he will be alone.
Please, accept my gratitude.
Finally, do not mourn. A part of me feels presumptuous in writing this, assuming that my departure will have any significant impact on your life. All the same, should you find sorrow in your heart, please take comfort in knowing that I am at rest. My soul is where it belongs. And know that now you are free to pursue whatever passions you may, no longer forced to look over your shoulder and wonder what new catastrophe will befall you.
You are a strong, brave, and compassionate young woman and I know you will accomplish great things.
Thank you and farewell,
Atem.
