I know I still have another story that I should be working on, but I couldn't stop thinking about this one. It was all I thought about when I went to bed last night! So I spent most of the morning working on this chapter. I just want to get to what happens later!

Something I forgot to mention in my last note, Gin does not own Final Fantasy X or any of the characters therein. Yeah, the disclaimer. While I own a copy of the game, it does not give me rights to anything.

--

Seymour strode down the halls of his grand mansion with his head held high. Everything was falling into place, just as he hoped it would. Lady Yuna was waiting for him in the meeting room, and he was sure she would not be alone. No matter where she went at least two of her companions were with her.

That was of little importance though. They would be taken care of soon enough. He entered the room and was met with three faces, all with different expressions. One seemed worried, one angry, and the last one was leery.

"Good evening. I am Seymour Guado, and I welcome you to my home. I trust you had a safe trip?"

Yuna was the only one to speak up. "Yes, thank you for asking. But may I ask why you have called me here?"

Seymour smiled slightly. The lady was very direct just like his reports said. "Must we rush this meeting? Surely you have not eaten yet. Perhaps we can talk more over dinner. Your friends are invited to join us as well if they desire."

"That is very kind of you. We will do so then, won't we?" She looked to her friends to make sure they agreed with her.

"Sure whatever you say, Yuna." Tidus muttered.

Seymour almost laughed at the blond's response. He knew not many liked him, but to show it so openly was another matter. His attention shifted to the last one who spoke and he took in his appearance. He was blond just like his favorite slave upstairs. Tanned skin typical of life in Besaid, and black leather overall shorts topped with an open fronted yellow shirt. 'A sports player.' He told himself.

The other person was very simple to understand. A young Ronso. Not as tall as most of the others, but with a broken horn. He had shamed his people somehow. Typical Ronso garb covered him. Not much else to add, but Seymour could see he was devoted to Yuna and was the one responsible for keeping her safe.

"Well, if we are ready, follow me. Lady Yuna." He held his arm out for her to take and she looped her own through it.

--

Upstairs, Rikku could hear people rushing around to get dinner ready. She knew that she would not be eating for at least another two hours. And that was if she was lucky. She stood from her place under the window and looked out. The sun was just starting to set over the horizon. The sky was painted in bold colors of reds, yellows, and purples. She quickly turned away unable to look at it any longer. What was the point of watching? It only made her remember how she was trapped with no chance of being able to ever escape.

She didn't know how he did it, but Seymour always seemed to know every move she made. When she had first arrived, she tried three times to run away. Each time it had been him who caught her. Not a random guard, or anyone else. It was always Seymour.

Hugging her arms close to herself, her eyes traveled around the room. There was the bed she had been laying on less then an hour ago. The memory made her feel dirty. Her eyes were quickly cast away and fell on the door opposite the bed. Perhaps she might be able to find time to get cleaned up. Letting her arms fall to her side, she walked over.

The bathroom was done in pale blues and greens, something she found to be very relaxing. She stripped from what little clothing she wore and stared at herself in the floor length mirror. Her stomach was covered in fresh scratches and old scars. Reminders of what had been done to her.

Down the middle of her chest between her breasts was dried blood. Seymour had opened an old wound on his hand and ran it down her body. She shivered knowing it was still the same one from the night she had first met him. The glass shattered in his hand, and he ran the fresh blood down her cheek and neck before whispering in her ear.

She looked closer at her neck and could make out faint traces of teeth marks where he had bit her. She brought her hand up to cover the quickly turning purple skin. Even her legs were not spared. More scratches were seen running down the outside of each thigh. She sighed before turning away.

She stepped inside the shower and turned the water on as hot as she could stand it. Her skin turned red from the heat, and she winced as it felt like a thousand needles were stabbing her all at once. But this was the only way she could feel clean again.

--

Seymour observed how the Ronso choose not to eat, but stood behind the Lady Yuna as she did so. Next to her sat the man she had introduced as Tidus. He ate little and glared at him a lot. Ignoring the stares, Seymour continued the conversation as if nothing was wrong.

"So you see, Lady Yuna, I would like to help you in your search. I hear you have been doing so without success for the past four years. Is that right?"

Yuna nodded and dabbed at the corner of her eye with her napkin. "Yes. Rikku disappeared on the same week my father and Sir Jecht died. We had seen no sign of her since that time. I won't give up though. Not until we have proof of what really happened to her."

Tidus leaned over and began to rub circles on her back. He knew this was difficult for her. And for Seymour to bring it up so bluntly, was inexcusable.

"My apologies, Lady Yuna. Perhaps we should speak of another matter. However my offer does still stand."

"Thank you lord Seymour. That means a lot to all of us."

"It has been a long night. Why don't you stay for the night and return home in the morning? I will arrange for each of you to have a room ready for when you are prepared to retire for the night. We can talk more over breakfast in the morning." He stood from his seat and brought one hand in front of him before giving a short bow. "If you will excuse me. I have other matters I must attend to. Forgive me for leaving so soon."

"It's not a problem. We understand. Thank you for your time and offer. We will take tonight and think about it."

Seymour smiled at her and left the room. Outside he met up with his servant Tromell and gave instructions pertaining to his guests.

--

Auron sighed as he stepped into his apartment. It was nice to be home. The day long shift was tiring, but at least he had the knowledge that he would not have to so it again for at least three weeks. He had requested time off to go visit Tidus and Yuna in Besaid like he did every year. Even if he was unable to be there with them, he made sure to make time to check in on them.

He tilted his neck from side to side feeling better once he heard the crack of the tension being released. Removing his jacket next, he threw it over the back of a chair not caring about neatness now. All he wanted was a shower and some sleep. Even his feet felt heavy to him.

Deciding that getting a shower now would be too much, he fell on the couch and quickly feel asleep.

He had hoped that he would be able to get some rest, but that night all his dreams centered around a blond haired young woman. He was not able to see her face, but one word stood out to him over and over.

She kept repeating the word "Please."

--

"Rikku!" Seymour had entered his chambers in a hurry. He was late and did not see his slave anywhere.

She came out of the bathroom wearing his bathrobe and holding out a black hooded cloak for him. She said nothing as she got to work sliding the cloak over his shoulders and zippering the front of it leaving only his head to be seen. She noticed that he seemed to be watching her more closely then ever before.

When she was done, she attempted to step back, but his hand wrapped tightly around her upper arm. The top of the robe fell exposing the soft flesh of her shoulder.

"I refuse to lose you. Come with me." He commanded pulling her along with him.

Rikku stumbled and almost fell several times, but the hold on her arm was keeping her from doing so. She tried to watch where they were going, but all she could tell was that they were going deeper and deeper within the mansion. She could feel cool breezes from the walls, and knew that they must be underground now.

She felt the grip on her arm relax and Seymour slowing down. From around the corner she could hear low chanting. Seymour stopped before staring at her. "Do not say a word. You are to remain silent until the time I say."

Rikku nodded her head showing him she understood. He let go of her before signaling she was to follow him. Licking her lips, she did so. Rikku almost stopped when she saw what was going on. Ten men stood around a raised platform all wearing the same garment she had dressed her master in. Suddenly she felt out of place being the only female and wearing nothing but a bathrobe.

"Gentlemen, thank you for joining me yet again." Seymour spoke out stopping the chanting as all men faced him. He went on, "As many of you know, we are faced with attacks from all sides. The masses do not understand what we are trying to establish by spreading the word of Yevon. They do not understand that once everyone worships Yevon like we do, we will have created a Utopian society.

"But this will not come without reward to yourselves. As head of our new world you will each be given control of a providence with which you may rule as you please. All in the name of Yevon of course." He grinned before his attention focus on each man in the room.

"Kinoc, how are things going in Bevelle?"

The addressed man stepped forward and began to speak. "They are looking up, sir. The temples embraced Yevon as soon as I mentioned it. They are willing to follow a strong leader." He stepped back in line once he finished.

"That is good to hear. Bickson, tell me, what of things in Luca?"

Another man stepped up and spoke. "The people have said nothing. They are a people who care more for sports then religion. However, we do have a small group working to spread the message. We are under a lot of pressure though."

Rikku watched an listened as each man was addressed, gave a report, and then stood silent once more. She noted that there seemed to be a representative from each area of Spira. Except the Al Bhed tribe. Though that brought little comfort to her. If there had been one of her own, she could cried out to them begging them to take her home.

Her thoughts were halted when she heard Seymour calling her name.

"Rikku, come." He held one hand out to her. She hesitated before placing her own within it. But he was very gentle as he walked to the center of the group. "I want you all to meet Rikku. She has been with me for the past four years, and I will not lose her now. Lady Yuna and her friends have been searching for the daughter of Cid since she was twelve. Tonight, I require each of your help to make sure that she will remain mine."

A chorus of "Yes sirs" followed and they all gathered around her and each poured a vial on her one at a time. Rikku was scared, this was worse then anything she had ever experienced during her time under Seymour.

Seymour leaned over and whispered in her ear. "Do not be afraid, though this might get rather painful. In that event, you have permission to scream out."

Rikku gasped and would have tried to run, but he still had hold of her hand and led her to the platform instead.

"Lay down, Rikku." It was a simple instruction, but she had trouble doing so because she suddenly began to feel dizzy. Whatever had been poured on her was taking effect. Instead she ended up falling to the ground in a crumpled heap. She felt as hands reached out to help her body lay flat. At this point, she could hear other people talking, but could not understand a word being said. The only voice she was able to hear clearly was Seymour's.

"And now, we begin!" As soon as the words left his lips she could feel a burning sensation on the skin between her breasts. It grew stronger and stronger before she could stand it no more. Her mouth opened wide releasing a scream of pure agony. Seconds later, she passed out.

--

"Kimahri, did you hear that? Sounded like someone screaming." Tromell had arranged for the men to be together while Yuna was given a room of her own. Tidus had been laying awake in bed when he heard the scream.

"Kimahri must check on Yuna. Make sure she is fine." He stood from his bed and turned on the light just as a knock sounded on the bedroom door.

Tidus shrugged before Kimahri opened it to see who it was. Yuna stood in the hall wearing nightclothes and wringing her hands together.

"Yuna!" Tidus jumped out of bed and wrapped his arms around her before leading her into the room. "You hear it too then?" He asked implying the sound.

"Yes, I did. It sounded like someone was in pain. A girl by the sound of it. Oh, Tidus, what could possibly have happened for someone to yell like that?" She was worried and snuggled closer to him.

"I'm not sure. But the important thing is that you are safe."

"Kimahri take Yuna back to your room. Kimahri will stay there for the night."

Yuna looked up from her safe position as Tidus nodded to her. "It will be fine. We can ask Seymour in the morning. Go with Kimahri now." He gently cupped her face between his hands and kissed her lightly. "Try and get some sleep."

He watched as the two of them left together and lay back in bed with his hands behind his head. As tired as he was before, he found it hard to sleep now. The scream plagued his mind as to who it could have been. Yuna said it sounded like a young girl, but why would she have screamed? All he knew was that he wanted to take Yuna home as soon as possible. As soon as it was morning, he was going to call Cid on the airship and have him pick them up.

--

By the time Rikku woke up again, the sun was shining through the windows. Her head hurt and she tried to remember what had happened the night before. She rolled over and her hand hit something warm and soft. She sat up with a start before moaning and falling back.

"You have awoken. That is good to see." Seymour was beside her leaning on one elbow watching her. "How do you feel?"

"My head hurts." She rasped out unable to find her voice completely yet.

His hand drifted lightly over her head and she found the pain gone. He smiled down at her. "Better?" She nodded once in reply. "Good. I have set aside a set of clothing for you to wear today. Go put them on so that I may see how they look."

Rikku nodded and slid out of bed. She tried to think as to why she was in Seymour's bed and not downstairs in her cell. Though she had to admit, waking up in a bed was much nicer. Perhaps Seymour had changed after last night. He certainly seemed much nicer to her. The concern he had expressed when she said her head hurt was a start. He had never healed her injuries before unless she had serviced him first.

She found the clothing he had told her about set on top of his dresser. She picked them up and inspected them first. The top was a black corset with white embroidery along the bottom edge. Under that was a short black skirt that was barely big enough to cover her back end should she bend over. Next to the clothing were black heels and choker.

Seymour watched as she stripped out of the robe she wore and into the clothing provided. She seemed hesitant at first, and understandably so. He had never given her such items to wear. But after his conversation with Lady Yuna last night, he needed a way to show that he was in control no matter what. And what better way to do so then hide what they were searching for right in front of them?

Rikku finished dressing and turned to him waiting for his assessment. Seymour glanced her over starting from the feet and going up before stopping on her face. "Perfect. Now, I want you to sit down over there while I fix your hair." He pointed to a spot in front of a mirror.

Rikku did as she was told but paused when she saw her reflection. No longer was her hair a bright sunny blond, it was now a midnight black. And not only that, her eyes had been changed as well. They were a deep brown. She couldn't even see the swirls in them unless she looked closely. Her hand reached up almost in disbelief and touched it not sure if what she was seeing was the truth.

"Do you like it? I think it suits you. Don't you agree?" Seymour came up behind her and placed one hand on her shoulder. His hand was removed as he began pulling her hair up into an assortment of braids and waves that cascaded down to the middle of her back. "Now, it is time we go meet her lady for breakfast. And during that time, you are to remain mute."

As soon as he said the words, Rikku felt as if the choker around her neck suddenly became tighter. She tried to speak out to tell her master, but the words were stuck. He must have placed some curse on her to make sure that she would not be able to accidentally slip.

Seymour led them from the room and down to the dining room where Yuna, Tidus, and Kimahri were waiting. "Forgive me for making you wait for so long. I was in the middle of something rather important." He sat down at the head of the table as Rikku took her place standing just behind him on the left.

"It is fine. We were not waiting as long as you think." Yuna replied. She glanced to her right and saw Tidus staring at her waiting for her to ask about what had happened last night. She tilted her head once telling him that she would do so soon.

He couldn't wait though. "Hey, Seymour." He spoke up. "I have a question for you."

"Then I shall do my best to answer it for you." Seymour answered giving permission for him to speak up. Though Tidus would of done so had he not.

"What happened last night? We heard a scream in the middle of the night." He sat back in his seat with a smug look on his face.

Seymour stared at him not breaking eye contact. As soon as Tidus began squirming he answered. "I'm afraid I am unaware of what you are talking about. I had heard nothing unusual last night."

Yuna ignored the confrontation between them as she stared at the woman who stood behind the lord. Seymour saw her and encouraged her to speak up. "Is something the matter, my lady?"

"Your servant. She was not with you last night. Is she new?"

Seymour reached his hand out and Rikku stepped up as it wrapped around the inside of her thigh. His fingers rubbed lightly along the soft skin there. "My apologies. It was her night off last night. Allow me to introduce my personal servant Ree. She has served me for many years."

"She's very beautiful." Yuna noted.

"Kimahri thinks she looks sad." The Ronso spoke up for the first time that morning. He still refused to eat and stood behind Yuna as she did so.

Tidus stood from his seat and stepped closer to her trying to see her face. Rikku ducked her head and tried to move back, but Seymour's hand was still wrapped around her thigh.

"Don't not be afraid. Why shouldn't they be interested in my favorite servant."

"Can't she talk?" Tidus asked when he noticed that Ree did not reply.

"I'm afraid she is a mute. She cannot speak no matter how much she tries. Isn't that right, Ree." He glanced up at her knowing she was powerless to answer. Instead she nodded her head. "Please, if you don't mind sit back down and enjoy breakfast. It's getting cold with us standing around."

Tidus did so, but not before taking one last glance to Ree. He watched as she spread Seymour's napkin out on his lap before stepping back once more. She waited until breakfast was over before clearing away his dish and returning.

"Lady Yuna, I understand you wish to leave this morning, but if there is anything I can do to help please do not hesitate to ask." Rikku went stiff at the name. The person that her master had been talking to was her cousin? She had changed such much since four years ago that she had been unable to recognize her. Seymour saw her and quickly amended the situation. "Ree, I want you to head up to my room. I will join you in a moment. Run my bath while you wait for me."

Rikku knew she better listen to his order, but found it hard when salvation was so close. She wanted so bad to ignore him and run into Yuna's arms. His glare for her to move changed her mind.

--

Once she was upstairs, tears fell from her eyes for the first time in over three years. She was not used to the feeling and used her hand to brush them away quickly. Seymour was not going to be happy when he arrived upstairs.

She ran into the bathroom and began running the water for him making sure to add oil to the tub. As it was filling she moved to the sink and tried to erase all traces that she was crying by splashing cold water on her face.

The bedroom door opened and she paused what she was doing. Seymour had entered. Leaving the water running to fill, she went out to greet him.

"I am disappointed in your performance this morning, Rikku." He closed the door behind him and stepped closer to her. Rikku took a step back in fear. He was strong, and now she couldn't even call out for help. "Come here, Rikku." He ordered. "Is my bath ready yet?"

He didn't sound mad, but Seymour was known for being able to suppress how he was truly feeling. Rikku stepped up to him and began undressing him when he held his arms out. When she was finished he pulled her into the bathroom with him.

"Lock the door behind you." He said as he slipped into the hot water.

Still unsure of what kind of punishment he was going to give, Rikku hoped that by doing exactly like he ordered now, it might not be so sever. She stood next to the tub waiting for his next command.

"Wash me." He said simply. "Make sure you do not miss anything." Seymour lay his head back and let her do her job. He sighed in contentment as she worked. When he was done bathing, he stood from the water and waited as Rikku dried him off and covered him with his bathrobe.

She stood back and clasped her hands in front of her waiting his next order. She was not expecting the blow that came instead. His hand connected with her cheek and sent her crashing to the floor after hitting the sink. She winced as she cradled the tender skin where he had hit her.

"Get up." She shook as she stood only to end up being knocked down once more as he hit her again. Rikku's vision began to dim and she struggled not to lose consciousness. "Next time you think about disobeying an order, I suggest you remember this day." He unlocked the door and went into the main room to get dressed alone.

Rikku lay on the floor and allowed the darkness to take over.