Many thanks for the wonderful reviews left; it was truly awesome and inspiring. I dedicate this chapter for you amazing people and know that it is your encouraging words that prompted this update~.
Enjoy.
Warning: The usual...
Disclaimer: I do not own Yu-Gi-Oh!
O-o-O-o-O
Yami sighed and hung up the phone. The duration of the call noted: two minutes and fifty-two seconds. It felt like the longest conversation of his life, if it could be called a conversation. Flirting seemed more fitting to what the other man had to say. It was tiring.
His companion looked on curiously as he put away his phone. They were sitting comfortably in a taxi that the former insisted on taking and paying for, to go on a shopping spree that held no interest for him. Why did he give in so easily, he thought? He rubbed his temple wearily.
"Marik?" Rebecca asked gently and Yami nodded with a puff of annoyance. "Don't mind him, he's really harmless, if you don't count his horniness!"
Yami grunted a response. He was perfectly aware of the dangers where Marik's libido was concerned, he'd been exposed to it since day one and it was becoming increasingly worrying. It wasn't that he disliked Marik, in fact he found the perverted man friendly, frank and direct. It was interesting to see how the man never cared about how others saw him, which meant he never held back with his actions or his words. He did as he pleased and said what was on his mind.
Under normal circumstances it would not have been a problem, but Marik's mind was usually in the gutter, which meant most of the remarks he spewed were, more or less, dirty! He sighed and wondered how long would it be before the phone rang again, the thought made him look warily at the item and he sighed again. He needed a distraction.
"Tell me, Rebecca-san, what has clothes got to do with Marik-san?" He had been curious about that since he overheard the exchange between senpai* and kouhai*.
Rebecca stared at him in astonishment, her mouth agape. It made Yami feel rather stupid for asking. "You don't know about the 'House of Ishtar'?" she enquired back.
Yami shook his head. "No, I don't," he said timidly. "Why, are they famous?"
Rebecca's jaws dropped even more, making her eyes wider. "Are you serious, Yami?" she asked, stunned. "Do you not follow fashion news or the like? They are one of the leading fashion designers in the world! The Ishtar label is incredibly exclusive and expensive. It is very popular."
"Really?" Yami asked incredulously, eager to learn more. It was his turn to gape like a fish.
Rebecca nodded. "They began from humble origins, decades ago, making a name for themselves by exporting cotton from Egypt; it was one of the finest in the world and well sought after in Japan. Not long after, they decided to settle here for good, the Japanese way of infusing traditional and modern attire fascinated them. It enabled them to exploit the trend set by the old and the young.
Subsequently, the fashion house separated into two parts: one is for traditional and formal wear like suits and kimonos—it remained the 'Ishtar' label—and the other focused on popular trendy apparel. The brand is called 'Millennium". It was set up to commemorate the turn of the century, to celebrate the new era in their designs and outlook; it provides expensive, cool and stylish casual wear. We are going to the 'Millennium' boutique now."
Yami looked a little bewildered, the word, "expensive" scared him. "So, Marik-san's family runs the company?" Yami queried after a pause.
Rebecca nodded again. "Marik-san is the heir, but he's shown no interest in it whatsoever. His sister runs the business in his stead. He is paid well enough in voice acting as it is. Not having to worry about clothing expenses and with perks like starring in Character CDs, Drama CDs, attending conventions and modelling; he's pretty much rolling in it. Undoubtedly, with recognition, the possibilities are endless! Mind you, Marik-san's life-style is somewhat extravagant so he does these side jobs willingly. I guess it pays for his lovers and love hotel expenses." Rebecca finished off with a snicker.
"I see," Yami said, staring out of the cab window and absorbing the information he had been given. It's nice to be famous, he thought enviously, not only do you get people queuing up to offer you work, but you can be as rude as you like to them as well. Frowning, his ruminations returned to a certain ill-mannered, blue-eyed individual.
"Does Kaiba-san capitalise on theses 'perks'?" he asked softly.
The female looked thoughtful as she pondered over the question. She answered with a slow shake of her head, "No, he doesn't—partly because he doesn't have to."
Yami turned to Rebecca and tilted his head to one side. "Really?" he asked, intrigued.
"Yep, because he's the CEO of KCC, Kaiba Corp Communications."
"Huh?" It was all Yami could muster for a reply. He was completely shocked. KCC belonged to Kaiba-san, he thought awestruck.
Rebecca laughed aloud. "It's no secret! Although, he rarely mixes the two occupations together—the times he does, he's very scary! I certainly wouldn't want to be an employee for him; he's cool, but also a perfectionist, in voice acting and in business. His uncle keeps an eye on the company so he is free to pursue this career, Noa is his uncle's son."
"Ah, I see." The tricolour head bobbed in acknowledgement; Yami, now, understood the connection between the two jerks.
Rebecca cupped her chin in the palm of her hand and looked out of the window. Her expression grew distance and long sigh followed.
"Unfortunately, because Kaiba-senpai doesn't need the money, he doesn't provide more than what is required of him. Aside from Drama CDs, there's no music CDs, no live shows, and no modelling." Yami detected regret and disappointment in the girl's tone as she continued. "I guess it's this element of elusiveness that makes him so desirable. I'd love to hear him sing and see him model, and I am sure his fans would love to as well. I am certain he would sell. It really is a loss for us."
Crimson eyes reverted away from the dreamy girl and looked outside.
It sure is nice to be famous, he thought again.
O-o-O-o-O
Arriving at the "Millennium" boutique, Yami stared in wonder, taking in the details of his surroundings. It was huge and spacious, decorated in rich golden colours that reminded him of the sun, sand and spices. As much as he loved to bask in the warm feeling the place emitted, he was a little conscious of his scruffy appearance. He shifted uncomfortably next to Rebecca, painfully aware of the curious stares directed at him. He was about to voice his misgivings when he is startled by a deep voice.
"Rebecca-sama, it is a pleasure to see you again. And you must be Mutou-san? Marik-sama has called ahead to inform us of your arrival."
Yami looked to the speaker and was met with a tall dark-skinned man in a suit, smiling at warmly them. Rebecca blushed prettily.
"Aw, Odion -san, the pleasure's all mine," she giggled; it amused Yami to see the, usually, out-spoken girl looking so flustered.
Odion looked on indulgently as a slim and pretty female appeared beside him causing Rebecca to shriek with delight. "Kaneko-san," she gushed, "you have to help me out! I have a press conference to attend and I have nothing to wear!"
Yami rolled his eyes and shook his head with mirth as he watched the enthusiastic pair walk away, he had done what was asked of him, and it was time to go. While he had no work at the convenience store today, he wouldn't mind going home and begin on perusing the script; it would make a good read, he was sure of it.
He turned to address his companion. "Well, my work is done so I'll be going now," he chortled. "Have a good day, Odion–san." Bowing politely, he was about to depart when Odion called out to detain him.
"Mutou-san, please wait," the towering man said. "Marik-sama has instructed me to advise you for some outfits. I cannot disregard his order."
Unperturbed, the petit male looked at taller man, his tone matched his expression. "I am sorry, but I have already informed Marik-san that I do not require anything," he replied. "I came because Rebecca-san requested me to and now that she's being cared for, there is no need for me to be here. Please thank Marik-san for his kindness and good day to you."
After a stiff bow, he began walking away.
"But I will be blamed and severely reprimanded if you leave empty-handed," Odion called after him, eagerly observing the effects of his words. It resulted in the way he anticipated. Yami stopped; his eyes stared at his feet as he chewed on his lower lip. Odion could see he was conflicted; his need to go was great, but not when it meant getting another into trouble. Odion felt a little guilty for his unscrupulous ploy.
"It need not waste too much of your time, Mutou-san," he coaxed. "You could try out one outfit; that way, I could say I did what was asked of me."
Reluctantly, Yami turned around. Crimson eyes looked up and the tricolour head nodded slowly. "One outfit, that is all," he conceded.
"Yes, of course!" Odion said with obvious relief. "Let's get started then, please follow me."
The petit male could only do as he was told; he followed meekly behind the dark man until he reached the men's section of the boutique. Here, the colour scheme seemed richer and darker, giving the atmosphere a masculine feel.
Steered into a small room, Yami was told to stand straight, whilst his consultant took a good look at him. The former felt very uncomfortable as Odion, with a hand on his chin, studied him. The scrutiny made him flush a little. Eventually, he was told to take a seat and Yami did so gladly. Sinking into the large leather chair he tried to focus on other things—anything to stop him from fidgeting nervously as he waited. His thoughts led to Yuugi.
He hadn't informed his brother of his lucky break yet; being a little superstitious he didn't want to jinx himself before it was officially announced. Without public recognition, Yami somehow felt a little insecure; due to his obscurity he could easily be replaced for someone better well known. Who would care if he were taken off the project, it wouldn't be difficult for him to be ousted for a more suitable candidate. Being favoured for a role was one thing, and actually being officially acknowledged for it was another. Yami was too much of s pessimist to allow frivolous thoughts to overcome his senses. Experience taught him not to have too high expectations, that way any crushing disappointments suffered thereafter would not be as painful.
Yuugi wouldn't feel bad for him if he weren't aware of his offer in the first place, right? No, he will inform him after the press conference, and Anzu too.
His mind wandered to his lively colleague and her possible reaction to the news. Okay, he wasn't Obelisk, the "good-looking" one, but he was sure she'd be happy for him nevertheless. No doubt she'd be pestering him for spoilers and inside gossip. Yami smiled to himself, he was aware he was not allowed to divulge such details, however it would be fun to tease her all the same.
The return of Odion hugging a few outfits shook the contemplative man out of his reverie. Yami spied the clothes anxiously, the word, "expensive" struck loud in his mind.
"I have selected a few items I think will suit your physique and your colouring," the advisor enthused, handing over the garments. "Please try them on and see if it is to your liking. I will be here if you need further assistance."
Yami was skilfully ushered into a vast cubicle before he had the chance to object. With a sigh, the harried male hung the items on the hooks and examined the garments. The style, the fabric and the cut were amazing—it spoke quality—even a cheapskate like him could tell. Slender fingers strayed from admiring the fabric to the price tag attached to the item; he flipped over the parched paper and gasped...
The door of the flung open and a frightened Yami walked out, his arms full of the untried items. Odion looked at him, surprise etched on his strong features. The client had been inside for a mere minute; there was no way he could have tried on all the outfits.
"Marik-san is very mistaken if he believes I can afford such items," Yami spluttered. "It seems I have wasted your time, please accept my sincere apologies, Odion-san." Yami bowed low with those words, his arms held out garments towards Odion.
Odion stared speechlessly at the young man; he felt humbled with the latter's honesty.
"Is there a problem, Odion?" A soft female voice cut through the awkward silence between the two men.
Despite his size, Odion swiftly swerved around and bowed. "Ishizu-sama," he addressed with reverence.
Ishizu looked from Odion to Yami, a slender brow raised quizzically at the clothes the other was holding out. Silence, once again, swallowed the room's occupants until—out of necessity—the female spoke, "I am Ishtar Ishizu, Marik's sister and you must be Mutou-san, the client my brother instructed Odion to care for attentively. It is pleasure to meet you." She dipped her head in greeting.
Yami coloured. "The pleasure is all mine, Ishtar-sama," he said, returning the acknowledgement politely. "Though it is regrettable that our acquaintance should be marred with this misunderstanding." He held out the items again.
Taking the proffered items and handing them to Odion, Ishizu asked, "Are the clothes not to your liking, Mutou-san?"
Yami shook his head. "No, the clothes are beautiful, but it is beyond what I can afford."
"Oh?" came the reply, Yami's bluntness piqued Ishizu's interest. "It is beyond your means even with the discount Marik has given you?"
Crimson eyes looked at the speaker, its hue darkened slightly.
"Discount?" he repeated.
"Yes, discount," she confirmed, "a special rate, which hasn't been applied for a very long time. To be honest with you, I was curious to see the person my brother regarded highly enough to earn a reduction of ninety-five per cent."
"What?" Yami gasped, mortified and angry at the audacity of that presumptuous man. His actions bruised his pride. "I think you've misunderstood," he gritted. "There is nothing going on between me and Marik-san to merit such treatment. We are soon-to-be colleagues and nothing more! It does not allow him to think I deserve assistance in any way, and neither does it give him the right to think I require his charity!"
He turned to go.
"Please wait, Mutou-san!" Ishizu called out after him. "I apologise if I have offended you, please forgive me."
Yami stopped in his tracks and slowly turned around. "I, too, am sorry for my brisk behaviour, let us forget this incident and not mention it again. Good day to you, Ishtar-san and Odion-san" He gave a curt bow in their direction.
"Please do not be angry with Marik." Ishizu pleaded.
Yami's face darkened at the mention of the culprit.
"He rarely takes advantage of his position in this company and when he does, it is usually concessions for his friends, even that is meagre compared to the one he requested for you."
Yami flinched.
"The last time he used that was quite some time ago," the female confided. "Back then, he was in love, however his lover was only interested in the advantages Marik had to offer and the relationship ended with bitter and painful consequences."
Yami's expression softened, his anger abating a little, just a little. "I am sorry to hear that," he offered sympathetically.
Ishizu smiled. "I can see why that boy regards you in the highest esteem. You are modest and frank, I am glad he has you for a friend. Please take care of him."
Embarrassed, Yami remained silent.
After some thought, Ishizu said, "I have a proposition. In my office, there are some samples that may be suitable for you. They are yours, without charge, if you promise to advertise them at a special event. Since the samples are of the latest designs, they are not available in the stores yet; the response we get from the publicity could help us determine if it would be marketable or not. Would you do it?"
Yami was thoughtful, "So it will be like promoting your label in public?" he asked cautiously.
"Even better, you could be the face for "Millennium" if you are successful in attracting the attention, and you will be our paid representative. How does that sound?"
Yami deliberated over the idea, it certainly sounded appealing and it solved the problem about his clothes.
"Then is a deal," he replied with a slow nod of his head.
Ishizu laughed, the sound was pleasing to the ear. "That is great, Mutou-san. I look forward working with you."
"Yami. Please call me Yami."
The excited female nodded, "Yami-kun then. Let's get you fitted." Turning to Odion, Ishizu instructed him to go to her office and retrieve the samples. Odion scurried off without a moment's delay.
A wide smile graced Ishizu's face as she turned her attention back to Yami. She could see why her brother was attached to this man. Not only was he strong, but kind and candid too. If only he could win this boy's heart then perhaps, the flighty man would give up his wild ways and settle down. With Yami-kun, she could only hope for the best.
The ringing of her cell interrupted her thoughts and she glanced at the display. Deciding to take the call outside, she politely informed her guest of her intentions and left. Her absence was brief, her return swift; Yami barely noticed her disappearance before she returned again.
Odion grinned as he dutifully went about his errand; he was delighted Marik-sama had found a person who was refreshing as rainwater in the desert. There was going to be plenty for him to report back later on and it made him wonder how his master was going to react. However, little did he know, his master, impatient and excited about the possibility of seeing Yami undress, was already one step ahead of him.
"Yami-chan! A breathless voice called out to the pair, or rather to a certain crimson-eye male, waiting in the consultation room. The sudden exclamation disturbed the harmonious silence between the Ishizu and Yami.
Two pairs of eyes turned to the voice, watching Marik as he jogged up to them, a look of disappointment etched on his face.
"Aw, did I missed you undress then?" the Egyptian man asked in a sulky voice; he had been hyped for that striptease.
Yami palmed his face.
Ishizu chuckled good-humouredly. "No, you haven't, my dear brother. Yami-kun was about to have a fitting session now. Your timing is immaculate."
Yami looked at the Ishtar siblings as they happily gushed about him and shook his head. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all, he thought ruefully.
"Well, I rushed over as fast as I could in case Yami-chan needed assistance," Marik said with a grin.
Yami started. He had temporarily forgotten about the discount due to the events succeeding it, but the Egyptian's comment bought back the memory and he bridled with indignation. To make matters worse, Odion, at that moment, appeared with an armful of garments. The entrance was mockingly familiar—like déjà vu—he was reliving the scene, which vexed him only moments ago.
His face flushed angrily.
Marik saw the rosy hue dusted across the pale face and misconstrued it completely. "Aw, Yami-chan, why you blushing like a newly-wed bride? Are you that pleased to see me?"
Ishizu immediately tried to make eye contact with her brother; her desperate stare was, however, ignored. Marik had eyes for no one, but the angry man in front of him. Oblivious to the other's ire, he dug himself deeper into trouble.
"...Or are you thinking of ways you can express your gratitude to me. I can give you suggestions on how you can show your appreciation. There are many ways you can repay me."
Ishizu groaned and clapped a hand over her face. Odion handed the clothes to Yami, grabbed Marik by the arm and steered him away from the displeased man. Once they were at a safe distance away, he informed his master of what transpired in his absence.
Violet eyes turned towards the fuming man and Yami could make out the word, "Oops" being mouthed. Marik made his way to Yami, but the latter turned on his heels and stormed inside the changing room. Marik made a dash for him, but was met with the door slammed in his face and the sound of it being bolted from the inside. He rapped his knuckles on it. "Yami-chan," he called out, "do you need help?"
"No!" Yami replied. "I do not require help from you, least of all charity! Go and find someone else who is willing to play along with your cause, I want no part of it! Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes, Yami-chan," Marik answered submissively. "Now can I come in?"
"No!"
"Yami-chan," he implored, knocking frenziedly on the door, "open up, please..."
"NO!" came the terse reply again.
"You are so cold," Marik whined, resting his head on the wooden barrier, which separated him from his objective. Downcast at the failed attempt to see Yami stripping, he noticed a gap underneath the door, he grinned. Kneeling down, he lowered his head and tried to peek in.
"Marik!" Ishizu's shocked reproof was heard behind him, but he ignored it.
"Yami-chan, are you sure you don't need help?" he offered through the opening. The answer was striped-sock foot lashed out in his direction. He pulled his head back quickly to avoid being kicked in the face...and then stuck it in the gap again. "I am deft with straps, buttons and zippers, you know. You have no idea how fast I can undo them— OW!"
A foot was pressed on his head, the sole of a shoe rested comfortably on his skull. "Nee-san*? Odion? Get your foot off, it hurts!"
"Then I suggest you stop what you are doing and get up!" A frosty voice clipped.
Marik rolled his eyes with recognition; the cold voice belonged to an equally cold person. "Kaiba!" he growled.
The foot lifted off his head and he gingerly got up, his face sullen as he confronted the unwelcome intruder. "What are you doing here?" he asked peevishly, rubbing his trodden head. "Looks like your intentions are as dubious as mine—not that mine are dubious!" He hastily corrected.
Kaiba snorted. "I highly doubt if anyone on this planet has intentions as dubious as yours, pervert. Not that it's any of your business, but I am here for a fitting. What's your excuse aside from stalking, sexual harassing and peeping?"
"Well, neither," Marik returned with a wag of his finger. "As a matter of fact, I am here to assist Yami," he responded proudly.
"I told you, I don't need help," came the exasperated reply from inside the fitting room.
"Don't say that, Yami-chan," Marik shot back. "As a representative of the House of Ishtar, I have to make sure my clients are duly taken care off. I have to provide a proper service to ensure your first time is as enjoyable as possible, that way I'll know you'll come again."
The room stilled. Even the movement inside the cubicle stopped. The effects of Marik's comment had a big impact on the room's occupant; it dripped with lewd innuendo and left them gaping in muted silence.
Yami stared blankly at the wall in front of him, his thoughts focused gravely on what he just heard.
He was referring about the boutique, right?
Kaiba broke the silence. "Pegasus is frantically looking for you. He said something about you and an interview. Weren't you supposed to be at an interview, as opposed to terrorising Mutou?"
Marik paled. "Crap!" he mumbled before launching himself at the door again, banging it with his fist. "Yami-chan!" he wailed. "Let me see you before I go! Won't you reward me for especially coming to see you?"
"No!" Yami replied stubbornly, "And shouldn't you be on your way? You shouldn't keep people waiting, it's rude."
"Bah, it's okay. I told them I had to see to my cat* briefly and that I'll be back as soon as I had taken care of it." Marik beamed at his cleverness.
Kaiba glared daggers at Marik. "If you are not out of here in ten seconds, I am going to call Pegasus and have him haul your ass from here! Trust me, Pegasus and ass are two things you wouldn't want mixed up together!"
Marik scowled at Kaiba. "Jerk!" he called him.
The taller man looked dispassionately at the shorter one and said, "Ten..."
"Fine! I am going!"
"Nine..."
"Yami-chan," the desperate man called out in one last attempt.
The addressee did not respond.
"Eight..."
Spinning around, he marched up to his sister, gave her a quick peck on the cheek. "Bye, Nee-san. Take care of my Yami-chan for me."
"Seven..."
Ishizu smiled and nodded. "I will, so do not worry. Now go."
"Six..."
Making his way to the exit, he passed Odion. The tall man bowed low. "Take care, Marik-sama and visit us soon."
"Five..."
Marik squeezed his arm affectionately. "Yeah, I will and look after Yami-chan," leaning closer to Odion, he whispered, "That discount remains, regardless what he says. You got that?"
Odion nodded.
"Four..." Kaiba reached for his phone.
Hoping that maybe Yami would appear from his confinement to see him off, he turned around. The closed door met his hopeful gaze. With a sigh, he waved to the others and disappeared through the exit.
An awkward silence enveloped the room thereafter. The remaining occupants with the exception of Yami, looked at each other, unsure of how to break the silence.
Kaiba replaced his phone back into his jacket and turned to address Ishizu. "I am sorry I came a day earlier than my original appointment, but since I had the free time, I thought I'd have my fitting done in case of further alterations."
Ishizu shook her head and smiled. "Like I said over the phone, the garments were ready so it was no trouble at all. I am honoured you favour the 'Ishtar' and 'Millennium' label above all others. We are fortunate to have your valued patronage."
Kaiba dipped his head in response and remained silent.
"Odion," Ishizu called out, "take Kaiba-sama to the VIP room and have him try out the garments ordered for him. Inform me if there are alterations to he made."
"Yes, Ishizu-sama," Odion replied. Then turning to Kaiba, he extended his hand in the direction of the exit. "Please this way, Kaiba-sama."
Cerulean blue eyes briefly rested on the closed door of the fitting room, it was a fleeting glance, but Ishizu noticed it; she caught the wistful look in those intense eyes and frowned. Watching the retreating figure, she could not help but think Marik was in for some competition. The formidable CEO was known to get whatever he set his sights on. Mutou Yami must be a very special person for these two men to vie for him this way. It made her curious to see who would succeed in winning this boy's heart.
Sighing softly, she turned her focus on the remaining occupant. Ishizu walked up to the door and gently knocked on it. "Yami-kun," she prompted, "are you done yet?"
"Yes, I am, but..." he hesitated.
Ishizu chuckled. "Don't worry, they are gone. Kaiba and Marik have left, you may come out now."
The sound of the lock sliding back was heard, followed by the door being cautiously opened. Yami slowly emerged dressed in the given attire. The legs of the pants were folded up as they were a little long, but the rest fitted perfectly.
Without a word, Ishizu studied at him. Sapphire eyes scanned him up and down making the small male uncomfortable and very self-conscious. As the silence dragged on, Yami began fear harsh criticism from the fashion expert.
Suddenly, Ishizu broke into a dazzlingly smile. "Perfect, Yami-kun," she purred, "I think you will do just fine."
Yami heaved a sigh of relief; the tension, which accumulated inside of him, was discharged with the expelled breath. Able to relax now the pressure and attention were off him, his stomach growled loudly. Embarrassed, Yami clutched his protesting belly and gave a nervous laugh as Ishizu stared at him, amused.
"Seems I could do with a takyaki about now," he grinned sheepishly...
~TBC~
O-o-O-o-O
A/N: So there you have it. I hope you've all enjoyed it as much as I enjoyed writing it and I dearly hope it was to your expectations. Let me know your thoughts on this—your comments are what keep me going.
On the subject of reviews, I would like to reply to the thoughts left from anonymous reviewers:
Kisara: Thank you for your generous praise and I am sorry for the rather tardy update. I wasn't suppose to be working on this fic, but the motivation hit me and well, here are the results. I hope it was worth the wait.
AnzuFan: Once again, thank you for your continuous support, know that it means the world to me. I have always said how fortunate I am that Marik writes himself and trust me, in my mind; he really does most outrageous things. I hope the characters will continue to keep you entertained for a long time.
O-o-O-o-O
*Senpai – Senior
*Kouhai – Junior
*Nee-san – Older sister
*Cat – In Japanese, "Cat" is "Neko", which can also means "Uke," hence, Marik's clever remark. It is also referred to as "uke" in the title of Yami's infamous BLCD, "The Disobedient Cat". Maybe, I should do a scene fro that one day. Woo-hoo~!
O-o-O-o-O
Finally, yes, I know, it is a LONG author's note, I would like to say: if anyone is interested in Thief!Bakura x Atem, I have began a Casteshipping fic called "Enslaved". The link is in my profile.