[h3][Center]~The Bathhouse~

~Livia, Katherine, Fia, Lyssa, Luna~[/center][/h3]




The trek to the bathhouse wasn't a long one. Livia made sure that Fia was following them though, and kept a somewhat slow pace so the girl could keep up without too much difficulty. It was close to the gardens, allowing for quite the scenic view on the way there, and offering quite the relaxing atmosphere that a bathhouse needed. From the outside, the building appeared similar as the rest of the academy, elegantly designed yet also simple. Two large doors led into the place and this late most students would have already used it, though there were bound to be a few stragglers. Not that it was much of an issue, most probably wouldn't come near the headmistress.




She ushered Katherine and Fia inside, making herself enter last for now. They first entered the changing rooms, getting rid of most of their clothes and getting a few towels to take with them into the bathhouse. Inside of the place was...well, richly decorated. The entire place was styled after what could have possibly been found in Ancient Rome. The bath itself was large, rectangular in shape. Large pillars lined the edge of the pool in regular intervals, holding the open aired balcony above and the glass roof above. During the night, the room was well lit by a few low hanging chandeliers and lamps on the walls. The temperature inside was pleasantly warm, at all times thanks to the fact the water was heated almost 24/7.




[color=a187be]"I do so enjoy the baths for a number of reasons."[/color] Livia chuckled quietly as she shot a somewhat suggestive look over to Katherine. Unfortunately, they were not going to be able to indulge in that activity at the moment, they had another reason for being here. She stepped into the water, making sure to take the towel off from around her body as she did so.




[color=a187be]"Come on in, Fia, the water is heated perfectly - and we will get you clean."[/color]




Fia had been looking around ever since they left the office.  The girl saw so many things that were strange, yet had appeared within her dreams.  Plants arranged ornately, a cobblestone path beneath her feet.  But when she entered the bathhouse, that sense of familiarity increased - as if she was at home, even though she had never imagined the place within the realm of sleep.  The partially marble architecture somehow seemed ... comforting, as if she was returning to a the most pleasant of dreams.




The girl followed Livia's lead, noticing the heamistress' constant watchful eye.  She changed with as much privacy as she could manage, but when the time came to enter the water she looked at it with a small amount of fear.  A nervous toe entered the pool, and after she confirmed it was warm the girl sighed with relief.




Anyone still behind the crimson haired girl when the towel dropped would notice that her back was torn in various places.  Some of the scars were obviously from whips, but other wounds appeared to be far too deep and wide.  Most of them had faded, but several of them were incredibly fresh, the bruises still forming and small amounts of liquid seeping out.  It would be hard to examine them further, because a second after the towel dropped the girl entered the water, letting it go up to her chin.




Katherine didn't care too much about keeping herself private.  As she took her clothes off, she dropped them on the floor for her dolls to pick up and fold.  One person there had already seen much of her. . . Intimately.  The other, well, she didn't care much about showing off in the first place.  [color=green]"Those are quite some injuries."[/color] The woman muttered to herself.  She started to wonder if she let the man off too easily.  




[color=green]"Unless Phoenixes are too different from most other things, I'm pretty sure those could be healed.  Still though, no need to be shy.  I'm sure it's nothing we've not seen before."[/color]  Not that she was a very comforting person to listen to.  [color=green]"And we're all women.  We've definitely seen all of that before as well."[/color]




Ah...well, Katherine had to go ruin the fun. Well...that was fine. Well, what was said was said and she would tell Fia about that at a later date if she was curious. For now though, they had another reason for being here and she wouldn't be answering any questions like that just now.




[color=a187be]"Ah...you had to go and open that mouth of yours."[/color] Livia replied with a bit of an amused smile.[color=a187be]"I'll have to discipline you later for that, my precious student."[/color] The implications of what that 'discipline' exactly was, was probably incredibly obvious. [color=a187be]"Fia, come here dear."[/color] Near the edge of the large bath was a ledge where one could sit and relax and Liva took a seat there, indicated that Fia should come sit near her.




Kathrine's mention of the Phoenix and Livia's indication that Kathrine wasn't supposed to mention that allowed Fia to quickly put two and two together.  Of course, the crimson haired girl was curious, although now her dreams seemed to make a lot more sense.




Seven feet away, the fourteen year old sat down to the left of Livia, obviously trying to keep some distance.  The abused girl wasn't exactly the most touchy feely sort of person, and the pair of them obviously had something they were hiding.  Her amber eyes drifted towards the water, the girl obviously deep in thought.




Livia laughed softly at Fia's hesitance. Well, she shouldn't be surprised really, but it was somewhat disappointing. That said, she wasn't going to force the girl to let her wash her, so this proved to be somewhat troubling. Well, there was a simple, obvious solution here.




[color=a187be]"Well, Little Fia,"[/color] She began giving her a soft smile. [color=a187be]"You can either let me wash you, let Katherine do it, or let the dolls take care of you."[/color] She had brought a few cloths to use so she could give her a good scrubbing, but if Fia wasn't going to let her, then she might as well hand them over. She grabbed one of the small ones that was resting on the edge of the bath. [color=a187be]"I suppose if you can though, you are perfectly capable of doing it yourself. Make sure you do it good if you do. You look like you haven't had a proper wash...ever."[/color]




Of course, Livia was right.  Magic within the pool prevented the filth from spreading through the water, but there was enough grime on the girl that simply stepping into the water wouldn't remove everything.  And there were hard to reach places on anyone's body, like upper back.  Fia had an idea of what clean meant, but a brief look up at Livia suggested that any job she could do by herself would be utterly deficent in quality.




Something told the fourteen year old that Livia was not exactly the right person to piss off.  A brief glance at the dolls and the murderer made Fia scoot closer to Livia, until she was about only two feet away.  Of course, she was used to getting touched, but never pleasantly and rarely with consent.  Despite Livia's best attempt to be kind, it was obvious that the girl was tensed up as if preparing for the worst.




Meanwhile, it was hardly Katherine's concern. . . For now.  Sometimes Katherine didn't enjoy Livia's "disciplinary" actions.  She got very zealous at those times.  Still, she just had to enjoy it for now.  Earlier, she though a bath would go well with a glass of wine, and the doll she commanded to do so just arrived.  She sat on the edge of the bath as about six dolls worked together to scrub her body.  [color=green]"You should just let Livia wash you.  It's a pain to was yourself after all.  Of course, the dolls can wash you as well.  They just love to help."[/color]  She grabbed the glass of wine and took a sip.  Tasted as she imagined.




The red haired girl by now had figured out the dolls weren't purely spear wielding murderers.  However, her choice with Livia was made clear as she scooted slightly closer to the headmistress, tension slightly relieved but still obvious.




[color=a187be]"Must you always drink?"[/color] Livia teased Katherine, though she could hardly talk herself. While she didn't drink all that often, if she wasn't always so busy she'd likely be definitely classified as an alcoholic. Instead, she probably took up half of the campus' tea herself. It was a good substitute after all. She'd occasionally have a drink late at night or during special occasions, but for the most part she only allowed herself tea. That said, the display had at least made Fia scoot a bit closer to her, even if she stilled seemed a bit hesitant. She would need to be gentle then.




Livia took the cloth and dipped it in the warm water, quietly and gently moving behind the girl. She started with her back, taking note of the several scars and wounds on her back. Seriously, that man...she would have loved to get her mitts on his soul so he could repay that pain ten fold. But thoughts for later. Livia made sure to be gentle as she could, but she had to get at least somewhat forceful to make sure she got all the dirt out.




[color=a187be]"Really, you should enjoy yourself."[/color] Livia said as she continued the wash, smiling somewhat impishly. [color=a187be]"A lot of the students would [i]love[/i] getting a wash from me personally."[/color] That was actually rather debatable, but Livia liked to imagine she was popular among the students.




As time went by, the girl's muscles gradually began to relax, closing her eyes.  Of course, shots of pain ran through her body when Livia scrubbed the more recent wounds, but pain of that level was considered trivial to the abused girl by that point.  Eventually, the fourteen year old found herself not really minding the contact, and actually found herself enjoying the feeling of cleanliness left after Livia's work.  Their natural closeness and the fact she hadn't really been betrayed yet caused Fia to trust just a bit more.  A quiet voice left Fia's lips, asking a one worded question.  [color=salmon]"... Phoenix ...?"[/color]  Of course, she hand't forgotten what Kathrine had said, either.




Livia hummed quietly when Fia asked that question. While Livia didn't think now was the time to discuss such matters, the question couldn't be avoided now, could it? However - perhaps she could both have a bit of fun with this [i]and[/i] ensure that Fia learned some things and then learned a bit about the phoenix in the end? Telling her she was some powerful being right now would be bad.




...so there was a good way to go about this.




[color=a187be]"Hmm...you want to know, do you?"[/color] Livia finally replied after a few moments of thought, smile forming on her lips. [color=a187be]"I certainly know some things, little Fia...but some things might be better left unknown, at least for now."[/color] she continued to gently wash the girl. [color=a187be]"However, it is not my place to keep information about yourself from you...so..lets say we make a deal, little one."[/color]




Anyone would be curious at this point.  The girl nodded slowly though, wondering what exactly was going on.  [color=salmon]"... a ... deal ...?"[/color]




Livia smiled, well she hadn't said no. 




[color=a187be]"Well, little one. I run a school. A place of learning for young people like yourself. They learn magic, make friends, laugh, and...well, generally live their lives here learning magic and academics until they are grown."[/color] Livia continued to wash as she spoke. [color=a187be]"Those are all things I think you need, Fia. So my deal is simple. Attend this school for one semester, make friends, get good grades in your classes...and if you do, at the end of the semester, I will tell you everything I know about the Phoenix. About you."[/color]




Of course, it would never be so simple as a yes or no answer.  [color=salmon]"... What are ... friends?"[/color]  The girl had managed to get a good idea of what magic was: it was how her old master punished her.  The girl had an idea of what a school was, because Livia  just told her what it was.  Laughter is the joyous sound a person makes when they dominate another, the mage she had spent her entire life with had given plenty of demonstrations.




Livia sighed, looking down at Fia as she paused for a moment. Really, now...that was to be expected but it was still somewhat depressing. Still, she had just the answer for the little redhead.




[color=a187be]"That my dear, should be something for you to figure out yourself isn't it?"[/color] She simply replied. [color=a187be]"If I tell you all the answers, then you won't learn anything."[/color]




The redhead cocked her head slightly as the back rubs stopped, feeling strangely sad that they had.  It was odd, but despite Fia's growing suspicion that she would never get a straight answer from the woman she felt some sort of inherent trust towards her.  Livia's combination of a gentle demenor and well picked words kept the girl generally calm enough for there not to be a problem.




Suddenly, right beside Fia, there was a splash of water. If she looked, she'd initially only noticed some ripples in the water...and something pink submerged beneath the water. Seconds later, there was a large splash of water that would have covered almost everyone present. In the center of it, the self-proclaimed most adorable thing on the face of the planet was standing as confident and bright eyed as ever as she gave Fia a bright grin.




[color=f6989d]"Waaaah, how can you not know what friends are! They're the most important things on earth! They give tons of cuddles, hugs, and feed you lots of sweets!~"[/color] She was also completely naked, of course.




A look of fear at the sudden surprise ran across Fia's now drenched face, who jumped out of the tub to avoid the sudden surprise and sprinted to hide behind one of the pillars, slipping as she reached her destination and falling painfully onto her knees.  Tears, the natural mechanism to display one's helplessness in the face of a dominant party, started welling up in her eyes.




After Lyssa jumped into the water, a group of three dolls stopped attending to Katherine and moved over to where Lyssa was roughly.  Two of them grabbed the last and quickly threw it at the girl that jumped into the water.  [color=green]"Bath etiquettes are everything, student!"[/color]  The doll slammed the girl in the head, making a resounding ring either from the Doll or Lyssa. Whichever had the more hollow head.  It then delievered a strong chop to her head.




[color=f6989d]"Owie!"[/color] But that was all the demon could manage before losing her balance and falling backwards into the bathwater.




Of course, it was just afterward that Katherine realized who the girl was exactly.  [color=green]"Oh, it's that one girl from earlier Livia."[/color]  She wasn't supposed to do anything bad to her or whatever. . .




It was then that Lunalel cautiously made her way into the room, holding a towel in front of her body to cover up all the vital parts keeping an eye on it to make sure it stayed so.  [color=yellow]"Lyssa, you're supposed to be gentle in the bath.  It'll disturb the others in it. . . Not that there should. . .Be any. . ."[/color]  Her eyes raised to see the Headmistress, the one teacher from the previous day and another girl she didn't recognize.  It looked as if all the heat went to her face at once.  [color=yellow]"Oh. . . Umm, good evening Headmistress.  Miss Lindall."[/color]  She glanced over the two quickly, before avoiding her eyes.




Well now, this was certainly an interesting development. Perhaps...hmm...despite the demon Princesses over exuberance in the pursuit of 'friendship' she was...well the most suited to teaching someone what 'friendship' was. Hrm. If she could get Fia to not be afraid of her as she obviously was now, then this could turn out rather well.  But more importantly, Luna. Her eyes drifted over to the knight, giving her an eager smile. Despite the knights own scars...she was still, well, attractive and Livia couldn't help but too mess with her a little.




[color=a187be]"My, hello there Lunalel. It's a surprise to see you here so late."[/color] She chuckled lightly. [color=a187be]"Come, join us. I'll be with you in a moment, I need to take care of something regarding Little Fia here. Katherine, reprimand Miss Lyssa, would you? Nothing to harsh, though please."[/color] She got out of the water, walking over to where Fia was.




Finally being able to get back above the water, Lyssa made another, though smaller splash as she gasped for air as she came up. [color=f6989d]"Noo, I'm sorry! Adorable humans don't get reprimanded."[/color] Ignoring her, Livia focused on Fia.




Katherine merely sat there and sipped on her wine as Lyssa begged.  [color=green]"Then learn the proper manners for bathhouse useage."[/color]  The doll held on to the girl's head trying to keep out of the water. . . And because it found it fun.  It was also messing with her hair a bit. More of a nuisence than actually malicious.




[color=a187be]"I apologize about that, little Fia. If I had known she was there I would have stopped that from happening."[/color] She gave her a smile. [color=a187be]"Do you think you can stop crying and get out form behind that Pillar? She's not going to hurt you, I promised, didn't I?"[/color]




The girl named Fia took a peek around the pillar for a second, looking towards the terrifying girl.  Based on the way she was begging for mercy though, it seemed that the headmistress and her friend were still in charge.  The tears stopped after a second, and eventually the crimson haired girl headed towards Livia, placing the tall woman between herself the scary creature, and also ensuring the headmistress put as much as possible between herself and Lunallel.  New people were unpredictable, and this entire day of insanity was naturally proof.




Of course, this pink girl was also rather stupid.  Begging ones betters for mercy always resulted in more punishment.  Fia had learned long ago that thanking them for their cruel lessons usually had better resuts.  However, the crimson haired girl didn't want to interfere with the headmistresses plan and seemed content to remain silent.




Lyssa had taken to simply trying to rather unsuccessfully pry the doll off of her head as it went and messed up her hair, and generally made a nuisance of itself on her head. In the end though, she couldn't manage it. At least, not without breaking it and she had no desire to end up in more trouble than she already was. So with a defeated cry she ended up at the edge of the bath, chest resting on the edge of the pool as her arms extended over the edge. Her face was face down, and the doll was using her head as a convenient little chair.




Lunalel acted reserved as Livia invited her to the bath with them.  [color=yellow]"I suppose I can join you all.  I suppose it was my plan originally, so I shall."[/color]  She walked over to the other side of where Livia was and kept her eyes down, not to peer upon the splendor of the elder women in the room.  She did peek up when Livia bid over that other girl in the room.  She hadn't noticed before, but  the girl was dirty and injured.  [color=yellow]"That girl. . . Is she injured?  I have minor healing abilities, I don't know if it'll help but I could try helping."[/color]  She offered, feeling at a scar on her back.  At the least, healing with magic should not hurt.




Right, Fia was still injured slightly wasn't she? That should have been her first priority...though, it wasn't like the phoenix had to really worry about such things in the long run. That said, she wasn't just going to leave her like that either. With a smile, Livia walked back over to the water, slipping back in as she motioned for Fia to get back in.




[color=a187be]"Little Fia, please do join us again."[/color] She turned back to Luna. [color=a187be]"Certainly, Luna. It would be very helpful if you could if Fia does not mind."[/color]




The crimson haired girl noticed that her wall disappeared, and she obediently followed Livia and returned to the bath, making sure to sit opposite of crazy-pink-hair.  Of course, she heard 'Luna' make the suggestion to heal her, and Livia seemed to approve.  The girl nodded without much certainty, as if she wasn't too comfortable with this.




Luna made her way past the naked, wine-drinking Katherine and made it over to this "Fia" and Livia.  [color=yellow]"Hello, my name is Lunalel Lightshield.  This should make you feel a little better.  At the least the pain should go away a bit."[/color]  Lunalel said in a gentle voice.  This girl was younger, right?  It was hard to tell at this academy at times. [color=yellow]"Whatever dirt is there should come out of the wounds as well."[/color]  Holding her towel up with one hand, she held the other out to Fia and focused, casting her healing spell on the girl.  She seemed visably confident, but focused.




As Luna's healing magic worked, the more recent wounds gradually began to fade.  However, repairing the full tissue with any amount of accuracy would take quite some time, but it felt better.  Fia didn't know how to really express any gratitude, so she simply countinued to stare at the water, awkwardly.




Katherine kept her eyes on Luna healing the pheonix while her doll was messing with Lyssa still, though it was because Katherine found it funny more than punishment at this point.  She looked over the scars on the girls back and wonder just what she went through to get all of those.  Anyhow, she turned back to Lyssa to ask, [color=green]"Have you learned your lesson yet, you little hellion?"[/color]




[color=f6989d]"Yes, this adorable little Hellion has learned her lesson...."[/color] Lyssa muttered, face still buried in the ground. [color=f6989d]"Please stop being mean to adorable things."[/color]




[color=green]'However true it might be, calling yourself adorable is so narcissitic."[/color]  Katherine mentioned with a slight snicker.  [color=green]"Fine, fine. The punishment will stop. Just be mindful of the others sharing the bath with you.  There are a set of unspoken rules you should follow, but so long as you understand."[/color]  The Doll-Master snapped her fingers and the doll climbed off the demon's head and hit the ground.  It stood up and gave a couple of bows as if saying, "My apologies, it wasn't my idea but I had to."  




The three that had assisted in delivering punishment to the girl gathered around her with some cleaning supplies to assist in cleaning her.  [color=green]"I'm feeling generous today, so these three will help you wash if you want."[/color]  Katherine offered before sipping her wine again.




[color=f6989d]"I'm adorable. It's not narcissism if it's the truth, ehe~"[/color] Lyssa replied  somewhat languidly as the dolls started washing her, but she gave no  further reply.




Luna had done the extent of what she thought she could do for the moment.  The lighter wounds and the pain should have disappeared.  Though, she couldn't be sure other than asking the patient herself.  [color=yellow]"Does it feel better?  It looks a little bit better."[/color]




The girl waited a moment to respond, before nodding slightly.  Aside from that, there was only a slight verbal confirmation.  [color=salmon]"... Yes ..."[/color]  In truth, the hot sting of the water had disappeared.




[color=yellow]"I'm glad then."[/color] Luna said with a smile.  [color=yellow]"I'm hardly more than a novice at these healing arts myself, but if my meager skills are in anyway helpful then it's a good thing I have them."[/color]  At about this time, Luna realized the girl in front of her was about as naked as she was and averted her eyes, cautiously making her way backward.  [color=yellow]"Regardless, you should have someone with better skill look at it later."[/color]




The girl nodded again in confirmation, looking towards Livia to see if she had anything to add.  In reality, having all these people around was making the girl nervous.  In her entire life, she had only ever had one-on-one interactions.  Mentally, she sorted Luna with Livia on the reasonable list.  The crimson haired girl debated Kathrine, and as she peered around Livia she once again saw the hellion, being granted assistance from the dolls.




Who was currently letting the dolls wash her entire body. It wasn't unusual for her to have a servant or two help with such things - though most of the time it was her mom. Lyssa continued to lay half out of the water at the edge of the pool. She had taken one of the dolls and had sit it in front of her, currently hugging it. Lyssa noticed Fia looking at her, and gave the redhead a large grin, letting the side of her face rest on the ground.




[color=f6989d]"Ehehe, sorry about that! I didn't mean to startle you earlier. But you didn't know what friends were and that was sad. Everyone should have a friend!~"[/color] Which meant...she should be this girls friend! She was definitely the bestest friend anyone could have! So. It was then decided she'd make this girl her best friend! [color=f6989d]"I'm Lyssa! So let's be friends then!~"[/color]




Livia simply watched the conversation idly, slightly hoping the redhead would take Lyssa's offer. The chances of that considering her current state was fairly low, but one could always hope for the better outcome. Even if she didn't, she had a plan involving both Luna, Lyssa, and Fia in regards to just exactly how this was going to go.




Fia had already decided that this Lyssa girl was a little crazy, although based on the way she was currently acting it was possible for the 'hellion' to calm down.  Still though, the constant smile made the crimson haired girl more than a little uneasy, so the fourteen year old ducked behind the now more familiar Livia.  With her prior master having just died, she had immediately sought attachment to another guiding post.  This of course was Livia.  Like her former master, Livia seemed to have a motivation and a direction with her, which somehow was comforting.  The others didn't seem to have a motivation, so it left the girl guessing as to their true intentions, which is what she guessed 'friends' were.




Seeming to address Livia, the girl spoke in a soft tone.  [color=salmon]"... Friends ... seem ... scary ..."[/color]  So many new things were occuring this day, that it was difficult for the fourteen year old to process.  Exhausted mentally, physically, and emotionally, the fourteen year old simply leaned forward and buried her face into her hands.




[color=f6989d]"W-waaaah? I'm not scary!"[/color] Lyssa let go of the doll she had been holding, and the two that had been washing her back grabbed onto the girls hair as she propped her hands up on the edge, hanging onto each other for dear life as they tried to avoid falling into water. [color=f6989d]"Promise! I'm adorable and sweet! And not just because I eat a lot of them!"[/color] She was pouting slightly as she looked over to Fia, only just realizing she had buried her face in her hands, causing the demon to pause slightly, realizing something was a bit amiss.




[color=a187be]"Oh dear, I think you broke her."[/color] Livia chuckled lightly as she looked over at Lyssa. Hmm...how to go about this? Well, if she wanted Luna. [color=a187be]"You'll have to be gentle with her, Lyssa dear. She's...well, not exactly had an easy life as you have."[/color] At this, Lyssa's brow furrowed, somewhat troubled, but before she could say anything Livia continued. [color=a187be]"Which is why someone needs to look after little Fia here."[/color] She looked at both Luna and Lyssa, humming quietly to herself before deciding the first order of business.




[color=a187be]"In one weeks time, this girl shall start attending the classes here as a student. I think that one week is sufficient enough time for her to adjust at least somewhat to her new life. That said, I am a busy woman and can not possibly look after her all hours of the day. So...if it would not be too much trouble to either of you, I would like both of you to do it."[/color] Lyssa, simply because she was an incredibly friendly person - and her disposition was something that Livia greatly liked in a person. As for Luna, well, she knew the Lightsword family well enough to know she would be a good rolemodel for the girl.




As for the girl they were speaking of, the crimson hair shifted slightly as it seemed Fia would respond, but instead she simply remained there.  The red haired girl felt a little betrayed, but if she had any trust for Livia ... would that trust be applied to her retainers?  The girl raised her head slightly, eyes drifting first looking to the headmistress, then the blonde healer, then to the hellion.  After a few seconds of looking at Lyssa, she buried her head once more.




Luna looked up when the Headmistress mentioned her.  The woman wanted her and Lyssa to look over this Fia girl?  That wasn't completely out of the question, though it was a bit wierd.  [color=yellow]"It would not bother me to watch over her.  It's a noble's duty to help those in need after all.  She seems like a good girl, albeit a little shy so I don't think she'll be too difficult to keep a handle on."[/color]  Luna was doing her best to ignore the fact that everyone was naked, and in front of her.  She turned to look at Fia and asked a question with a minor smile.  [color=yellow]"Do you think we could get along?"[/color]




The Phoenix looked up towards Fia only as she was directly addressed, her only response being a slow nod.  Of course, Luna had landed just beneath Livia on the sanity chart, but if Livia was going to watch her then Luna would be a preffered subsitute.  She seemed ... kind ... at least.  The red haired girl nodded slowly for a few seconds, before returning her eyes to the water.




[color=yellow]"Then the matter is settled then."[/color] Luna said with a smile.  [color=yellow]"I have a fairly large bed, hardly someone anyone could imagine all to themselves, I think that will work for now."[/color]  She took a look at the others in the bath with them.  Of course, they were all still showing off their beautiful bodies. . .  She quickly averted her gaze, just to be safe.




[color=green]"Well, well.  Now this is perfect."[/color]  Katherine said with her drink emptied, handing it off to a doll nearby. [color=green]"You two seem like you'll do fine together.  Just remember that this girl is a bit of a bird-brain, so make sure you take her on a tour of the school and show her the day to day life."[/color]  To which Luna merely nodded, not even bothering to look up at the teacher showing her body to the world of the bathhouse questioning silently questioning the comment about Fia being a "bird-brain". 




She was going to get to look after someone? Well, that was certainly interesting. Lyssa had never done anything quite like that before, but she was certainly not going to say no. Fia looked like she could use a best friend, and she was fully qualified for anything relating to best friend business.




[color=f6989d]"Yeah, I can do that too!~"[/color] She replied enthusiastically. That said, it was clear that she had already done something to scare the timid girl, which was bad. So that was bad. She'd have to fix that...hrm...hugs could fix anything, right? But now didn't seem entirely appropriate. Hrm...She pulled herself up onto the edge of the bath, climbing out and walking over to the girl




[color=f6989d]"Ehe, sorry about earlier!~"[/color] She grinned, all smiles as usual as she crouched next to the edge of the pool. [color=f6989d]"Didn't mean to startle you that badly. Let's be friends, alright?"[/color].  At this point the girl nodded, still looking into her hands.  It was hard to tell if she was doing it because she agreed or because she simply wanted to stop getting bothered.




Livia simply let the greeting play out as it would, but more importantly...if she was going to possibly be hanging around Luna - to avoid any complications later it might be best to get Lyssa's identity out of the way.




[color=a187be]"Well then, it's decided. After she's had a week to adjust you'll both look after her. I'll make the arrangements within that time."[/color] Livia said with a smile. [color=a187be]"That said...Lyssa, to avoid further complications I think it might be best to formally introduce yourself to Luna here."[/color] Lyssa's head immediately turned to Livia, seeming somewhat nervous.




[color=f6989d]"U-uhm, you sure that's a good idea? My mom told me not too."[/color] She really had no problems revealing her identity to people, but she was hesitant only because she didn't want to get into trouble.




[color=a187be]"Well your mom's not here and considering things, that might be a good idea."[/color] Livia replied. [color=a187be]"So yes."[/color]




[color=yellow]"Formally introduce?"[/color]  Sure, Lyssa felt like she was too friendly to do anything formally, but Lunalel had a feel that's not what the headmistress meant.  She turned her head to Lyssa and cocked it slightly, confused.




[color=f6989d]"Well okay then!~"[/color] Lyssa replied enthusiastically as she stood. She placed her hands on top of her head, a making a little squee noise as the spell that kept her looking mostly human was dispelled. It revealed to horns, curving forwards on her forehead, two small bat like wings extending from her back, flapping cutely as a black spade tipped tail starting swishing back and forth, mimicking what one might observe on a very excited dog. The process wasn't flashy, and tool only a handful of seconds to complete. When it was done, Lyssa placed her hands on her hips, grinning brightly before introducing herself.  Meanwhile, the dolls were still holding on for dear life.




[color=f6989d]"Lyssa Nemorienne Sathanus, Adorable Demon Princess of Hell at your service!~"[/color]




Luna watched as Lyssa showed her horns off and introduced herself as . . . A Demon Princess.  She looked between Lyssa and Livia a few times before focusing on Lyssa's horns.  [color=yellow]"So this is suppose to be a secret?"[/color]  She didn't sound all too surprised about it either.  [color=yellow]"If so, you need to hide your horns better. They were wide open yesterday."[/color]  Demons were unpredictable at best.  That's what she's heard at least, and Lyssa didn't seem like a bad person.  Just a little low on the side of sanity.




At this introduction, Fia slowly turned around her head and noticed that there was additional prescence behind her.  Although Lyssa was a reasonable distance away, the red haired girl simply removed herself from the in-bath ledge and walked out towards the middle of the pool.  The water submerged the girl up to her chin, and she had to stop herself from going further out.  The phoenix simply didn't like having that many people near her, and maintained a secure ten foot distance from the others.




Despite having been locked in a tower her entire life, the Phoenix understood what a 'demon' and 'princess' were.  So did that make Lyssa a bastion of royal insanity?  At least that made sense.  The horns and wings looked interesting, at least.




At Luna's words, Lyssa gave a sheepish chuckle, rubbing the back of her neck as she remembered her blunder.




[color=f6989d]"Eheh, I've never been good with that."[/color] She replied to Luna. [color=f6989d]"I don't wanna hide my adorableness from people but my mom insists."[/color] She got back into the bathwater, sitting close to Luna and giving her a grin.[color=f6989d] "Says something about some humans not liking us demons, but that's silly! How can you not like this?"[/color] Lyssa leaned in close to Luna, her chest just barely touching Luna as she puffed out her chest, emphasizing she was speaking about herself.




Luna inched away slightly, putting a little distance between her and the demon.  Physical contact in this sort of setting was. . . Weird.  Even as little as it really was.  [color=yellow]"If all were as touchy as you at times, I can see why some would dislike demons."[/color]  As things considered, Luna couldn't imagine a lot of people enjoying a random person running and headbutting them as Lyssa did to Lukas the day before.  




[color=f6989d]"Hey hey, running from someone as adorable as me is kinda making me sad."[/color] For every inch Luna scooted away, Lyssa just scooted closer, not letting the knight get away so easily. However, if she was gonna scoot away, then well, she'd just have to block her escape! Lyssa quickly moved to the other side of Luna, giving her an impish smile as if she just hadn't done anything wrong. Meanwhile, Livia was watching the two with a cat like grin, obviously planning something. She took a look over to Fia, deciding that she could handle herself for now. She wasn't likely to run off for now, which gave her ample time to...play with Luna.




Heh~




Livia moved quietly, scooting closer to Luna as the demon was now on the other side of her.




[color=a187be]"Now now, don't be so reserved Luna. This [i]is[/i] a bath after all and I haven't see you wash yet."[/color] She said, giving her a friendly smile. [color=a187be]"You should let someone help with that~"[/color]




[color=yellow]"I-I can wash myself.  Your assistance is u-unnecessary Headmistress."[/color]  Luna managed to spout.  This was a sticky situation.  Really, she wasn't all too sure what to do being surrounded by the beautiful headmistress on one side and the cute Demon Princess on the other.  Her eyes didn't know where they could look at the moment between the two of them.  




All the while, Katherine finally decided to let out a huge sigh of relief as she lowered herself into the water.  Her dolls stood behind her, practically gawking at what Lyssa and the Headmistress were doing to Luna.  [color=green]"You might as well give it up, blondie.  This Headmistress doesn't back down when she wants to do something.  It'll be easier to just give up."[/color]  The teacher obviously had a great deal of experience in the subject matter.




[color=a187be]"Well, to get anything done with idiot nobles you have to be just a bit stubborn~"[/color] Livia replied with a soft chuckle. She was already on the other side of Luna now, sitting quite close. Lyssa was on the other side, giving Luna very little room to run, who was poking her head around Luna to get a good look at the headmistress. [color=a187be]"Want to help, Lyssa?"[/color]




[color=f6989d]"Weeeeel, I haven't washed either,"[/color] Lyssa replied with an impish smile, obviously catching exactly what Livia was up to. [color=f6989d]"Buuuut, hey hey, Luna can wash me after this, yep!~"[/color] Lyssa then proceeded to grab Luna, the Knights arm ending up being sandwiched between her breasts in the process.




[color=a187be]"That sounds like a wonderful idea~!"[/color] Livia said with a smile, taking the wash cloth. [color=a187be]"Come on now, Luna, don't worry you won't be getting the same treatment as Katherine. I'll be very gentle~"[/color]




[color=yellow]"W-wait! I said I could do it myself!?"[/color]  Somehow, it came out as partly a question.  Then she turned her head to Lyssa, [color=yellow]"Just why is that the best place for my arm?"[/color]  Internally, she wouldn't lie to herself. She enjoyed the soft-skin attention, but at the same it just didn't feel right.  




Still, maybe she should take Miss Lindall's advice and give up.  Between the close friendliness of Lyssa and the overpowering aura the Headmistress gave off, what exactly did she expect herself to do.  With little other option, a blush crossed her face as she said, [color=yellow]"How embarrasing. . ."[/color]




Fia looked up periodically, watching the choas as it unfolded and backing further into the water slowly.  If she could make it to the other side, she would probably be safe from the insanity.




With a smile, Livia moved behind Luna and set about washing her back first. The headmistress didn't seem to have any intention of doing anything else just yet, likely much to Luna's relief. Lyssa, however, stayed firmly attached to the knights arm to prevent her from fleeing so easily...and to well, continue to bother her.




[color=f6989d]"Well...its nice and warm and cute, obviously!~"[/color] Lyssa replied with a giggle, before giving a sigh of sudden realization. [color=f6989d]"...you think they're too small, don't ya?"[/color] She said rather accusingly. This earned a quiet chuckle from Livia, but she said nothing for now.




Really, Luna wasn't all too sure why she attracted the attention of these two.  It felt good as Livia washed her back, though it was a little embarrassing that Livia was having a good look at the minor scars on her back.  Still, she needed to reply to Lyssa, [color=yellow]"That's not what I said?"[/color]  Was she talking about her chest?  Size didn't really matter much did it?  Luna wasn't all that much bigger, really. No, no, no.  Neither of them were a match for the monster that was currently washing Luna's back.  With the thought though, her blush reddened up more.




Katherine meanwhile, turned to face her dolls and played with one by poking it's cheek a bit.  It reacted like a child fidgeting to it playfully fighting back.  She cared little for what was going on over at the side.  She was just glad it wasn't her being tormented by Livia for once.  She needed a breather every once in a while after all.




Lyssa looked up at Luna, pouting and looking upset. It lasted only a few seconds though before Livia cut in.




[color=a187be]"Oh my, maybe she does like bigger ones?~"[/color] Livia cut in...and Luna would suddenly feel for a few brief moments Livia's chest on her back before she continued. [color=a187be]"Or maybe Luna looks like someone who would like these more?"[/color] One of Livia's legs would hang in the side of Luna's vision as she removed herself from behind her, taking a seat next to Luna in the water.




[color=f6989d]"T-that's not faaaair~!"[/color] Lyssa replied, pouting still. She got up just a little out of the water, releasing Luna's arm and...wrapping her arms around Luna's head, nuzzling the top of it. [color=f6989d]"B-but Luna likes me more, yep! Cute and adorable always beats sexy!"[/color] Her chest was now against Luna's neck.




Luna was about to reply to Lyssa's statement when she felt softness on her back.  She felt the pressure in her head release, as Livia did.  It was as if all the steam rushed out of her head.  Then, Lyssa wrapped arms around Luna's head, the girl's chest on her neck.  [color=yellow]"What are you doing Lyssa?!"[/color]  Well, whatever Lyssa was doing threw Luna's balanced off and the two fell toward Livia.  She fell face-first into Livia's softness, Luna's second encounter in the day.  Her mind was processing too much and her body practically stiffened like a board, hardly moving from the spot.




Well, that was not something Livia had expected, but she silently thanked Lyssa for being...Lyssa. The demon had fallen on top of Luna, who was now on top of Livia and well...placed conveniently placed right between the headmistress' chest. Lyssa had decided hanging on for dear life as they fell meant grabbing Luna's head tightly, and ending up grabbing Livia's shoulder. Livia, had fallen slightly to the side as well, but had for the most part managed to keep her balance and not fall over too much.




[color=a187be]"Oh my~"[/color] Livia chuckled. [color=a187be]"See, I told you she liked them."[/color]




[color=f6989d]"T-that's not faaair~"[/color] Lyssa whined once again, letting go of Livia's shoulder.Instead, the demon grabbed Luna's arm, and pulled her off of Livia...and right into her chest.




[color=f6989d]"She prefers cute! I knows it! I gave her a kiss earlier today and her face was all a cute shade of red!"[/color] She declared, seemingly proud of her accomplishment. Livia simply chuckled, and let the demon have her way with Luna at the moment, righting herself and sitting up once again. She grabbed Luna's other arm, giving a smile at the demon.




[color=a187be]"Now now, I think its quite clear [i]mine[/i] is much more comfortable to rest on. Katherine can vouch for that, can't you dear?~"[/color] Without waiting for a reply from the teacher though, she pulled Luna back towards her. This process seemed to go back and forth for a few moments, with both Livia and Lyssa pulling Luna between them.




Luna was just being tugged back and forth like a rope.  It went from a heavenly situation to a hellish one.  She's been through struggles before, sure.  But nothing of this level.  Really, she's never been around two females fighting over her like this, even in jest.  Her arms were just sore now.  




Eventually, the tugging stopped...with Luna resting her head right between Livia's ample mounds on her left side, and Lyssa's dominating the right side of her head. Livia was currently looking down at Lyssa, giving the demon a confident smirk. Lyssa, was looking up at Livia, arms resting on her hips as she gave an angry glare up at the headmistress.




[color=a187be]"Really, Lyssa, you can't win with little things like those."[/color] Livia chided mischievously.




[color=f6989d]"G-gah! T-that's not true! Flat is justice! Flat is love!"[/color] Granted, she wasn't 'flat' by any means, but she definitely wasn't large. She doubted anyone could beat the headmistress, though. Lyssa had to admit, she had her beat in that department. At some point, this stopped being about what they could do to bother Luna, and a contest of wills between the older woman and the student.




Luna's mind was only able to take too much before it decided it needed to take a new course of action. Effectively, her normal personality was set aside and it was like a new person took the reins.  [color=FFD700]"Now, lovely misses, there's no need to fight like this."[/color]  Luna said as she raised her head out of Livia's softness.  




An arm slipped around Livia's waist and another around Lyssa's.  [color=FFD700]"You're both quite beautiful, and there's no reason to argue.  Everything is a charm point on a woman, and I find the very thing you two argue about very charming on you both."[/color]  The Knightess pulled the two closer in towards her and continued.  [color=FFD700]"Wouldn't it be better if we all play nice and compliment each other?  Wouldn't you two rather play nice?"[/color]




At her change in demeanor, Livia blinked once. She was slightly taken by surprise by the sudden change...but well, she wasn't going to complain. She let herself have an arm wrapped around her, not complaining. Instead, she wore an amused smile.




[color=a187be]"Oh my, someone's suddenly taking the initiative. I do so love...assertive people."[/color] She said with a playful laugh. The headmistress leaned in close once again, giving a smirk to Lyssa. [color=a187be]"I suppose you do have a point though. While I was just teasing Lyssa...I think both of us would rather make love, not war, hmm?~"[/color]




Lyssa behaved much the same, having let Luna wrap and arm around her waist. She giggled lightly.




[color=f6989d]"Weeelll, I [i]do[/i] love playing...and it'd be fun to play with the both of you!~"[/color] Lyssa wrapped her arms around Luna's shoulder, resting her head against hers. [color=f6989d]"Ehe, you'd make for a comfortable pillow."[/color]




[color=a187be]"Well, maybe after...soon to be had activities you might get the chance to use her as one."[/color] Livia laughed quietly. If someone didn't step in soon, this was likely about to turn into some very rule-breaking activities.




What happened while Katherine was entertaining her dolls.  It seemed like Livia was hitting on students again. Or maybe it was the other-way around.  Regardless, what Livia was suggesting definitely was in direct violation of Katherine's personal bathhouse etiquette.  Well, that and she should probably stop Livia from playing with students again.  She snapped her fingers and her dolls made their way over to Livia and Luna as there was the one still hanging around with Lyssa.  [color=green]"Those who sully the purity of the bathhouse deserve punishment, whether they run the academy or not."[/color]




The dolls behind Livia and Luna threw two towards their heads and they, along with the one on Lyssa's head, delivered blows of justice onto the three perpetrators.  Luna was definitely not expecting it and took it with hardly any resistance.  [color=yellow]"Ouch!"[/color] She cried out.  [color=yellow]"What happened!?"[/color] She asked as she looked around her and noticed her arms on the waists of her companions with Lyssa resting her head on her shoulder.  Livia. . . Well, really close.  [color=yellow]"Why are you two so close?"[/color]




Livia had been expecting something from Katherine, but to openly assault her with her dolls? The audacity. Not that it hadn't happened before - oh, definitely not. Katherine often had her dolls hinder her progress when flirting with the students. Her head was leaned back, whining slightly as she spoke.




[color=a187be]"Aww...Katherrrrine."[/color] She whined. [color=a187be]"You better hope you can entertain me instead if you're gonna go around and be the fun police."[/color] She didn't answer Luna just now, she was too busy lamenting the loss of her fun time.




Lyssa, was resting her head on Luna's shoulder, not moving. She was either very dazed or had been KO'ed completely by a second bump to the noggin that day.




[color=green]"I'll be the fun police so long as you all are without manners in the bathhouse."[/color]  If nothing else she was adament on the bathhouse.  [color=green]"Oh, and no entertainment for you, if you decide to hit on students like that~."[/color]  She felt like she needed to tease the headmistress a little.




[color=a187be]"Katherrrine."[/color] She whined again. [color=a187be]"You're taking away all the fun in my life at this rate~"[/color] At this point it was probably clear Livia was just playing along with the teacher for whatever reason....at least, until her mouth turned upwards in a smirk and she looked at Katherine from where she sat. That said, she had fooled around here long enough. She could only play around so much before she had to get back to her duties.




[color=a187be]"Ahh...but you make a valid point."[/color] She said with a sigh. [color=a187be]"I really should get back to work...that said,"[/color] She turned her head towards Luna, giving her a smile as she leaned in close and spoke in a low voice. [color=a187be]"I'm serious, though...stop by my office when the fun police isn't around and I'll treat you to a [i]very[/i] nice dinner."[/color] With that though, she unwrapped herself from around Luna.




Now...what was Fia doing?




The crimson haired girl had retreated behind one of the pillars on the opposite side with an expression akin to horror.  Fia had considered looking for an escape route, but there only appeared to be one exit to the room, and there were dolls in that direction.  So she was stuck with simply putting as much distance between herself and the others as possible.




Watching the girls struggle, she had come to a reasonable conclusion: they were all utterly crazy.  Livia, who she had considered sane, just put herself FAR too close to others.  Luna wasn't doing any better.  Fia seemed to have no interest in that lifestyle.  At least Lyssa was honest about herself up front.




Livia would approve of Fia's new level of cleanliness though.  She had swam across the water while they argued, trying to stay out of their line of sight.  As a result, the girl with a bit more scrubbing could be considered acceptably clean.




Luna was a little bit worried by the Headmistress's words but figured to avoid that issue, she'd never go to the Headmistress's office when Miss Lindall wasn't around.  Lyssa was still knocked out on her shoulder so she carefully lowered onto her lap, at least she wasn't too bad when she was unconcious..  [color=yellow]"What just happened?  I don't really remember anything."[/color] Luna asked around, seeing if she could get an answer.  




[color=a187be]"Well, little Fia you look good and clean...well, mostly."[/color] Livia said with a small chuckle, noticing the girl on the other side of the pool. She was probably just a tiny bit confused at what had just happened, but that was fine. She should learn that things like this aren't something someone should be afraid of. It'd be hard but with a little work, it was likely certainly possible.




[color=a187be]"I will be taking Fia and leaving now, Katherine. You may stay if you wish, but I will be taking Fia home and get her something nice to sleep in."[/color] With a smile, and a last look over to Luna to give her a small wave bye, the headmistress quietly walked over to Fia.[color=a187be]"Shall we be off now, Fia? It is rather late, and I am pretty sure you're tired."[/color]




It didn't seem like Lyssa was going to be moving anytime soon - in fact, she seemed like she was fast asleep, using Luna's lap as a comfortable pillow.




It seemed that for a moment, the Phoenix contemplated not going with the headmistress.  Her eyes darted around the room, as if looking for a way to escape or another option.  But as the headmistress quickly went around the pool, the crimson haired girl realized she had no alternatives and lowered her head, then nodded obediently.  Fia didn't have another option, and it seemed that Livia, the headmistress, had reentered the realm of sanity.  She would follow the headmistress out of the room, maintaining a comfortable seven-foot distance again now that the scrubbing was over.  Of course, she was nervous about going to this new place, but at this point the girl simply entrusted herself to whatever fate the headmistress had for her.  The two left.




Katherine sighed a little bit as one of the violators of Bath Rules started to leave.  It wouldn't be a problem now, but, well, she probably needed to get back to her place to go to sleep.  It would be nice to get a good night's sleep.  [color=green]"I suppose I shall leave too.  I have an actual class to teach tomorrow."[/color]  She looked at the two students still in the bath.  [color=green]"I suggest not staying here too long.  I can't be held accountable if Livia catches you by yourself."[/color]  The Puppeteer mentioned teasingly as she got up and took her small platoon of dolls with her as she left.




Luna sat there with Lyssa laying on her lap.  [color=yellow]"I shall take your advice to heart, Miss Lindall."[/color]  She just hoped that Lyssa would wake up soon so she could take herself to her room.  And then maybe explained what happened. On the other hand, it didn't seem like the Demon Princess was going to wake up any time soon.  It was a bit weird though, seeing a demon like this in person.  Physically, they were not all too different looking from humans. They just had horns and a tail.  At least, judging by Lyssa.  




It seemed weird to have horns on one's forehead.  Luna was curious to see if they were real so she touched them.  If nothing else, they were definitely real.  Then her tail were real too.  Thinking on it, most animals didn't like having their tail touched. Did that mean demons didn't either?  If so, maybe that were an easy way to wake her up.  There was no reason not to try.  She touched the girl's tail gently and then grabbed it and tugged it a little bit, hopefully that would be enough.




At first, Lyssa didn't seem to want to wake. When Luna started touching her tail and horns though, the demons face turned from one of idle sleep into a smile. She was making soft giggling noises in her sleep, until Luna touched her tail and gave it a soft tug. Lyssa woke with a start, jumping awake as she was now laying completely across Luna's legs.




[color=f6989d]"W-wah?! L-Luna?!" [/color]She squealed somewhat loudly, turning her head around to look at the knight. [color=f6989d]"I-I mean your cute and all but d-don't be so forward! I...I need to at least prepare myself!"[/color]




Luna cocked her head a little bit.  She expected the surprise, but not so much the part that came after that.  [color=yellow]"Prepare yourself?  I was testing to see if it would wake you up from. . . Whatever it was that made you fall into unconsciousness.”[/color] The Knightess said with little idea.  [color=yellow]”What would you need to prepare for?”[/color]




[color=f6989d]"Oh, hehe? You were just trying to wake me up?"[/color] Lyssa giggled, rolling over off of Luna and into the water. [color=f6989d]"And I was preparing myself for fun, obviously~"[/color] She teased, though she didn't elaborate and didn't seem very keen on actually answering Lunas question. [color=f6989d]"Anyways, you wanna stay here for a bit? I'm not tired and now we have the whooole place to ourselves~"[/color]




[color=yellow]"I think I shall take my leave.  I'm washed up now, and I need to make sure I have enough sleep for tomorrow morning."[/color]  Luna decided as she stood up and made sure she was covered up.  Perhaps she'll figure out what happened later.  [color=yellow]"If you want to leave with me, that is fine.  Otherwise, I shall see you tomorrow I suppose?"[/color]




[color=f6989d]"Awww, alright, you're still no fun!"[/color] Lyssa replied with a grin. [color=f6989d]"I'ma stay here for a bit and relax some. See ya tomorrow!~"[/color] With that, the girl giggled brightly...and fell backwards, hitting the bath and splashing water everywhere.