Masquerade makes a discontent sound, and turns away.

"Why are you hurting Aten? Why was that fayth dead?"

"My dear child, did you think the Final Aeon that easy to find? Sin would not let you gain power that easily. And as for Aten-

He is my dearest son, and I have been awaiting his return."

"Bitch. He's his own person, not some plaything."

Yunalesca doesn't even bat an eye. "I'm curious to see which of your companions you will choose for your fayth."

Yuna feels her blood go cold. "My...fayth?"

Yunalesca nods solemnly. "One of your guardians will make the ultimate sacrifice, and make the fayth so you may recieve the Final Aeon, and defeat Sin."

Masquerade is practically vibrating.

Aten is a twisting mass of flame, still trying to escape.

"Only the love between you and your guardian can create an Aeon powerful enough to defeat Sin."

"And then they will become Sin."

Yunalesca turns a disapproving glare on Auron. "It must be done."

Yuna can't breathe. The only thing keeping her present is the need to have Aten close-

She pulls.

-And that makes it easier. His connection to Yuna so much more than his connection to Her.

There's a sense that Masquerade is giving a vicious, triumphant grin.

Yunalesca's face is fiercely angry, fury so obvious- 

And then calm once more. "I see. You require payment for your actions. And I suppose it is difficult to lose one's aeon. A trade then, of equal value. You let Aten go, let him return to me, and in return-"

She waves an airy hand.

-and pyreflies swirl, getting closer and closer until-

A boy, gasping for air, pulls himself up from the ground.

-Fear. But also- resignation. (Of course Yuna's going to take Tidus, of course she is.)

Auron turns white. "Masque, hold me back."

Masquerade steps in front of him. "Who am I holding you back from? Because if it's Yunalesca you've chosen the wrong person."

"That is my best friend's son. I would do anything to save him."

"Tidus?" Yuna's voice is so small, so desperate.

"Yuna!" Tidus calls, trying to walk, but his legs were so stiff, as if they were bolted to that spot.

Aten seems... reduced somehow. "I- it's okay," he mumbles.