"Then," said Machia. "We will begin by addressing your weaknesses."

She opened a drawer and drew forth a long coil of crimson rope.

"I have wondered for a time if your weakness is the binding of your hands," she said, taking Madeleine's hands up into hers. "The way you take to my table. The way you froze just now. I second guessed myself when you bore the bit with something approaching dignity, but I have my confirmation."

The red thread wove between fingers and across palms, bringing hands together in prayer.

"You [i]hesitate [/i]when you are bound," said Machia. "Perhaps it is what drew you to the Hex in the first place. It's what drew Lios. But weaknesses can be the greatest strengths - and the key for you will be knowing exactly [i]how [/i]you are bound."

She looped the rope around your neck and back, above and below your breasts, bringing your hands to your chin, reaching down to wrap around your ankles and bind them together. The interlock enforced the kneeling, praying position.

"If your wrists are bound, use your tongue," said Machia. "If your tongue is gagged, use your hips. Accept the limitations imposed on you. Do not volunteer limitations that have not been imposed. When I bind you, I will take the time to do so properly - to permit you only the freedom I have chosen to give. If you are bound by a less attentive mistress and you volunteer the same obedience I have compelled I will take it as an insult. There is a difference between limitation and true helplessness and you will not be complete until you know exactly where that line lies."