You did give up a lot...and now, you don't need to give up anything else.

[Ryou can hear the exhaustion in that sigh, and it makes him bring his other arm up, holding Atem even more tightly. Not enough to be uncomfortable, but enough to assure him that he's here, he'll always be here.]

That's flattering...but remember, I'm here to protect you too. Whatever it takes. What you've done is at a level that...I couldn't hope to achieve. But that's alright.

[A low noise of amusement rises from his chest as he angles his head, takes a moment to gently nip on one of Atem's ears while he's up here...before murmuring in amusement:]

I'd rather obey you than Aunamee anyway.

[They could use the levity of that statement. Leveling up doesn't have to be somber...right?]