[--can he hear? Atem's not positive Ryou can, or if he can, it's not proper hearing. Atem doesn't let go of Ryou's hand, but brings his horrible bat-head down to it, bringing Ryou's fingers in contact with a furred face.]

It's all right! He's a friend! I'm here. You're going to be all right.

[Eventually. On the other side of what promises to be a lot of pain.

If Ryou digs claws into Atem's snout right now, he could do a lot of damage. Atem's eyes are close to sharp-edged, enormous monster hands. But he presses his face into it anyway, giving proof that's hard to fake.]

It's Giorno Giovanna. He came here to help while I was shedding my skin -- remember?

[Please remember.]