"Another one quit?"

Aurthour nodded. "They seem to dislike the way they're treated."

Equius laughed, shifting in his large, leather cushioned chair, making it squeak in protest. "It's how they deserve to be treated! I am a mighty high-blood, they are mere low-bloods. They are lucky to even be in my presence."

"Not to worry, Master. We already have a replacement in line. Come in, miss."

A young girl walked into Equius's room. She looked to be about the same age as him, and almost as tall. Herblack hair was pulled into a tight bun, as was required. She filled her uniform wholly; a deep red vest over a white button-up shirt, a black pencil skirt that halted mid-thigh, skin coloured hose, and flat shoes, to keep her from being taller from her Master. But her most striking feature was her eyes. They somehow looked dead and firey at the same time. Equius felt a chill looking at them.

His own eyes, covered by dark square glasses, darted back to Aurthour, avoiding the girl. He gulped and wiped his brow. Rising from his seat, he commanded Aurthour. "Leave us." The butler bowed and complied.

As Equius approached her cautiously, she stood completely still. He circled her, looking her over. "You are my new servant?"

"Yes," she said with a cold voice.

He stopped behind her and grasped her upper-arms. He raised his eyebrows, pleasantly surprised at how firm they were. "You seem very strong."

"I am."

"Tell me…" he started, putting his mouth to her ear. "Are you going to be completely obedient?"

"Yes."

"'Yes, Master Zahhak,'" he corrected.

"Yes, Master Zahhak," she repeated robotically. It made him very uneasy.

He cleared his throat, backing away from her and returning to his chair. He flung one arm onto the back of it. "Good girl,' he praised. His other hand waved for her to follow. "Have a seat," he directed, patting his leg. She complied. Equius then put his hand on her thigh and slipped it under her skirt. He squeezed her bottom.

"Are you sure you'll obey every order I give you?"

"Yes, Master Zahhak."

Equius almost choked. She didn't say no, she didn't push him away, she didn't even flinch. Most girls would be in tears by now. He loved dominating and displaying his power, but this girl lacked fear, or emotion of any kind. He started to sweat.

He remover his hand and pointed to the door. "Leave." The girl bowed and did so without even straightening her skirt.

Equius stayed still for a while, regaining his composure and trying to get a handle on what just occurred. He was really beginning to sweat.

"Aurthour!" he shouted mightily. The butler appeared within moments.

"Yes, Master?"

"Bring me a towel."