[center][h3]~Livia, Gwynn, Swen, and Maoin~[/h3] Livia's Office[/center] After sending Luna off to deal with her...old friend, Livia let the next three students enter. The maid, as cold as she was for the others led them into the room. Gwynn Foghlú and her familiar Maoin, and Swen Runvall. The three ambitious troublemakers that saw to enter the Restricted section and actually succeeded. Granted, she could up security somewhat to ensure that would never happen, but she didn't want to deter any bright young minds from doing something like that. After all, if someone wanted knowledge they had to learn to work for it somewhat. She was far from disappointed or angry at them, at all. [color=bc8dbf]"Good to see you three are doing well after your little...misadventure."[/color] Livia greeted them with a small, amused smile as they entered her office, the door closing shut behind them. [color=bc8dbf]"So tell me. I'm curious as to what exactly did you want to learn from the restricted section."[/color] Despite her questioning, it seemed as though she was more amused than anything, and if the three truly didn't want to say anything then she likely wouldn't press it. Chances are, she already knew anyways. For the most part, Gwynn remained silent as they walked up to the desk. She really didn't want to be here right now. She wasn't looking forward to whatever punishment they were likely going to be receiving. The kitten's head was down low, and she was obviously nervous for more than one reason. Not only had she allowed them to get caught, but she had failed during the mission itself. Lastly, her skills were part of the reason why they were in trouble. If she had just ... just not gone along with them, they wouldn't have been able to enter. Her mistress wouldn't be about to be expelled. She was the only one to blame. The magierprinz tried to maintain a straight face as he approached, to be steel skinned and face his punishment. Truly, he felt depressed and worried. Of course, he had already transcribed the book from the stone, and was currently looking through it. The man considered lying ... but after a moment of hesitation and from the air the headmistress gave off, he decided to tell the truth instead. [color=gray]"I copied records from Gwynn's families lands. Truthfully, I am still searching through them."[/color] [color=bc8dbf]"Oh? Why would you want records of Gwynn's family land? Surely you don't think anything of value could be there, do you?"[/color] Livia asked, obviously amused. Her tone of voice and lack of surprise made it clear she had definitely already knew what they had gone there for and what they were up too. She leaned back in her chair, taking a teacup from the desk and taking a sip. [color=bc8dbf]"Honesty and a curiosity to find knowledge even should it bring danger though, are traits I quite like. So I will make myself very clear when I say I am not upset with any of you so you don't have to worry about expulsion. Indeed, I am a bit amused. You're the first students to attempt such a thing with any degree of success."[/color] Granted, if they had lied she'd have been less than amused. And judging from the looks of the other two, Gwynn wasn't exactly going to talk much here and her familiar probably wouldn't have said anything either. And judging from Aetheria's report, Gwynn could...use some help in that department. [color=bc8dbf]"So, instead of outright punishment, I have something I would like the three of you to do for me if you are willing. If you accept, know that you will be traveling to Greece."[/color] At this, Gwynn seemed to suddenly become much more interested in this development of events. She looked at Livia, wearing a somewhat excited grin. Traveling to Greece? That sounded pretty fun. [color=8dc73f]"Greece? Really?!"[/color] She was at Livia's desk in a second, her excitement quite obvious. Maoin looked up, seeming a little confused and relieved at the same time. Not only was her mistress not getting punished, but she got a vacation with her future husband. As for Swen, he placed a hand on his chin. Greece didn't sound bad - in fact, he had studied their culture, language, and ancient religions rather extensively. The only this he wondered is why they were going there. Of course, the Prince was relieved he wouldn't be getting expelled, although a little suspicious of the older woman's intentions. [color=gray]"Headmistress, I doubt you are sending us on a simple vacation for breaking into the restricted section. What will we be doing there?"[/color] [color=8dc73f]"Aww, come on Swen. If you ask that of course she's gonna give us work or something."[/color] Gwynn sighed, shoulders slumping slightly at the thought of actually doing work. [color=bc8dbf]"Why? I can't reward my students for amusing me?"[/color] Livia continued with a small smile. [color=bc8dbf]"But you are correct. I feel you three are the best for this little...task, so I am sending you to Greece to take care of it."[/color] She reached into her desk, pulling out a few pieces of paper - the same ones Clete had given to her earlier that week about the incidents regarding the attacks on some smaller, outlying villages in Greece and placed them on her desk. [color=bc8dbf]"A few months ago, something started causing...trouble, to put lightly, in Greece. Specifically, mostly in some small villages where it is difficult for mages and other official forms of defense to reach. A local academy for mages run by an old acquaintance of mine Lord Kostis has tried to find the problem, but in the end was unable to stop the creature which we believe to be related to Cerberus in some way."[/color] Cerberus? Gwynn knew exactly what that was. And if this was a change to fight it, she was all for it. Not a vacation? Please, this was the best present she could have asked for! Adventure and fighting giant monster! Nothing could have been better. [color=8dc73f]"Great! We'll do it!"[/color] Gwynn replied, a bit too eagerly. The Prince reached for the papers and examined them, looking over the incidents. Anything related to Cerebus had to be a rather powerful creature, and Swen would like to have every advantage he could possibly have. As expected, he immedietly saught to gather knowledge about what they were facing, already reading the reports and drawing connections. [color=gray]"... I know we've already caused a little trouble there, but I would like to ask for the aid of the library in this task. I'd like to have as much information as possible about what we are facing."[/color] Truthfully, the wizard needed to prepare his book of spells this night to ensure his arsenal was optimal for defeating such a creature. [color=salmon]"And what exactly do you want us to do with the creature?"[/color] His future wife having already accepted, the Prince didn't feel the need to confirm as well. [color=bc8dbf]"Make sure it is no longer a problem."[/color] Livia replied rather sharply. [color=bc8dbf]"Do what you have too to ensure that. The method matters little as long as the result is the desired one. And do not worry, you will not be leaving immediately. That would be rash and irresponsible. You will have one day to prepare for this little venture. You'll be leaving this time tomorrow."[/color] Honestly, Gwynn was a bit excited. At the same time though, she was more than a little apprehensive. She still hadn't talked to Maoin yet. And if they were going to be going on this little venture together, then that meant well...they weren't going to do so well, were they? She cast a glance over to the cat, seeing her own reaction before turning back to Livia. [color=8dc73f]"Well hey, if its kicking its furry three-headed butt back to Hades, I can definitely do it."[/color] Gwynn grinned, pushing her apprehension to the side for now. [color=bc8dbf]"Well, you're certainly excited Gwynn."[/color] Livia replied with a small, amused tone which caused the blond to suddenly regret life. [color=8dc73f]"U-uh, yeah? I mean, I get to fight a giant three headed dog. Who wouldn't be excited?"[/color] She questioned somewhat warily. [color=bc8dbf]"Oh no, no, it's fine. I personally don't take much pleasure in fighting myself...but I can certainly see why someone would. That said,"[/color] She fixed Gwynn with a small amused smile. [color=bc8dbf]"Swen is the boss of this little venture...and you are to follow every order he gives you."[/color] At this, Gwynn visibly cringed, a noise that sounded similar to a dying puppy coming from the girl as she gave Livia a glare. [color=8dc73f]"W-what?"[/color] Gwynn replied, obviously distressed. [color=8dc73f]"No. No. No. I refuse!"[/color] [color=8dc73f]"Well its either that or you stay here and follow my orders wearing a servants uniform for a week."[/color] ...She wasn't going to win here, was she? Before Swen could speak, even in her depressed state Maoin couldn't help but deliever a small piece of advice to her owner. [color=darkslateblue]"... mistress, the second option doesn't sound too bad ..."[/color] Of course, being a servant following orders was everyday life for the kitten. It sounded a lot better than possibly dying at the hands of cerebus, and the cat would be able to help her owner out with the duties. Gwynn simply glared indignantly at the cat as she suggested she go with serving Livia for a week. That was a fate worse than death to her. [color=bc8dbf]"Your familiar isn't too wrong you know. She could help you as well and it wouldn't be too much work. Of course, that would mean Swen would have to do this alone and there is a very good chance that he could be severely injured."[/color] Livia simply shrugged, taking a sip of her tea. [color=bc8dbf]"Your choice."[/color] Gwynn didn't want to follow anyones orders. That said, she also wanted to go on this grand little adventure. If it was between serving someone for a week without adventure, and following someone's orders whilst on a grand adventure...well. She could at least compromise somewhat. Maoin cowered slightly at her owner's glare, returning her gaze to the floor. Obviously it would be wrong for Swen to head off alone, but the cat didn't want to put her mistress in danger. However, she would follow her owner whereever she went ... Swen thought for a moment about seeing Gwynn in a servant's uniform, blushing slightly as he glanced at her for a few moments. For some reason, he didn't think the noblewoman would look particullarly bad in one. She sounded pretty cute whining too. [color=gray]"A day will be plenty of time for me to prepare, headmistress. I'll be sure to keep both of them safe, although I am confident in my skills if they choose to stay."[/color] For a moment, he glanced over to Gwynn and accidently said his idle thoughts aloud quietly. [color=gray]"Although I do have to wonder what she'd look like in that uniform ... could always order her to wear one ..."[/color] For a second, he didn't realize what he had said, then he changed the subject the moment he did. [color=gray]"Anyways ... erm .... everything seems good, headmistress. I should start preparing."[/color] The man was ready to leave when Livia was. Gwynn of course, then glared at Swen for even uttering such a thought. Obviously, she wasn't exactly thinking too much of his little comment about her being in a dress like that. Just all around bad times for her, really. Livia simply seemed amused by the turn of events, but for the most part didn't comment. [color=8dc73f]"...Fine. I'll go."[/color] Gwynn finally replied with a huff, turning towards Swen and giving him a harsh glare. [color=8dc73f]"You give me any funny orders though, I don't care if I get expelled. You're getting strung up by your boots and dangled over a pit of sea monsters until they eat you."[/color] [color=a187be]"Oh my, she's a feisty one Swen. You'd do good to stay on her good side."[/color] Livia chuckled before moving on. [color=a187be]"We shouldn't have any problems, then. You'll be meeting an acquaintance of mine by the name of Clete in the small village where the creature last attacked. You'll have to try and track if from there. Shouldn't be all too difficult for all of you. However,"[/color] Livia's smile turned into a small frown. [color=a187be]"Try to be wary around Lord Kostis. He likely won't show himself, but be wary, if you can. He's...difficult to deal with sometimes."[/color] The Prince, of course, nodded in agreement with all of them. [color=gray]"I'll do my best to, headmistress."[/color] The man listened to the missions briefing, raising an eyebrow as Lord Kostis was mentioned. [color=gray]"So ... what's wrong with the lord?"[/color] The man sounded like he could be an important figure in the game they were going to play. Livia frowned, thinking for a moment. How to word it...delicately. [color=a187be]"To put bluntly? A cowardly sniveling wimp who would do anything to make himself look good to everyone else."[/color] She replied deciding not to have any delicacy at all. Well, not like anyone else was listening here and she doubted the students would ever repeat this conversation on the off chance they met him. [color=a187be]"I doubt you'll be dealing with him directly, but there is a good chance he could try and...attempt something. He's done similar things in the past, and has succeeded more often than not. Simply put, be on your guard if you have to deal with him, and if something seems even the slightest bit off about this at all then you have my permission to simply leave. I will have someone else handle it. I would rather you not get seriously injured - or worse."[/color] She paused for a moment to take a sip of tea. [color=a187be]"However, you can trust Clete, my acquaintance. He works for Lord Kostis as an accountant and manages the shcools funds. He is an honest, if somewhat blunt and...dry individual. I doubt he would do anything to seriously harm you even if Kostis ordered it."[/color] For the most part, Gwynn had been rendered silent as was simply glaring at the ground. The Prince nodded in response, pondering for a bit ... perhaps some other spells ...? [color=gray]"If there's not everything else, I'd like to get started on my Grimore. Takes a long time to write in it."[/color] The Magierprinz simply tossed the book up and down in front of himself for a moment, thinking about Livia's words. [hr] The three of them soon left the office, Swen heading to the library where he normally spent his day. As for Gwynn and Maoin, they quickly returned home. The kitten wasn't sure ... but she thought that her owner seemed a little more anxious than usual. Not that she'd say anything about it. It wasn't her buisness if her mistress didn't want it to be. With nothing much else to do, the kitten started cleaning the place, adjusting it to the satisfaction of even the cruelest inspector. Unaware of her owner's intentions to talk, the cat started to make herself busy since there was nothing else to do ... Gwynn had returned home with Maoin in silence for the most part. Aside from what had just happened in the Headmistress' office, she had other reasons for keeping silent. She wasn't intending on talking with Maoin so soon. It had been what, two days since she talked to Luna? She hadn't even been able to collect her thoughts so easily. So when they arrived home, Maoin likely very easily would have picked up on Gwynn's unease, or at least unusual silence. Gwynn positioned herself in the middle of the room, internally working up the courage to say something. [color=8dc73f]"Hey Maoin, can we talk for a bit?"[/color] She hesitatingly began. It's not like the cat had anything else she was doing aside from cleaning for the umpteenth time that day. The kitten looked over from her work as her owner asked to ... talk? Of course, she wouldn't deny any order, but ... the black haired girl was a little nervous. It was strange, something her mistress hadn't really asked for in the past. Was her owner upset? Did she ... did she do something wrong, again? A second after finishing her thoughts, the kitten approached nervously, eyes looking around the floor. [color=darkslateblue]"... Of-of course, mistress ..."[/color] Gwynn was silent for a second after Maoin approached. She had a lot that she wanted to say, now that she thought about it. Where should she even begin? Come on she, wasn't afraid of staring down a sea monster so she could talk with a cat about feelings. At least...it should have been easy. After a few final seconds though, Gwynn sighed, placing her hands on her hips in a seemingly aggressive fashion. This was annoying her, but she needed to talk even if it was. [color=8dc73f]"Maoin...before I say anything else, I'm going to say that...I do like you. I really do. You're adorable, fun to pet, and well, you more or less keep me straight most of the time. Without you I'd probably be off doing something a [i]lot[/i] different right now."[/color] She paused for a moment, taking a deep breath. What she was about to say next, would probably make the cat feel horrible but she had to say it regardless. Maoin listened as her owner's words gave her some praise her ears perking up just slightly ... but she heard that before ... [color=8dc73f]"But...I don't understand you. You and your constant submissiveness annoys me. I never even wanted a familiar and only chose one at random because I thought it'd be at least better then having my parents choose for me."[/color] Maoin looked her mistress in the eyes for just a second, hoping this was just another cruel tease from her owner. It wasn't. The kitten knew she wasn't good at telling when someone was joking ... but ... The black haired girl had the expected emotional reaction, tears streaking down her face, and devolving into sobs. The familiar knew she was getting kicked out at this point, her owner apparently unable to forgive her failures. Of course, she heard the complaints about her being a familiar and being submissive ... in a few seconds, Gwynn would see the girl burying her face into her hands, tears falling through the cracks in her fingers. Gwynn had steeled herself for...well, Maoin being depressed, but those tears? Gwynn had ground her teeth together, refraining from hugging the cat. She couldn't, not until she had said everything she wanted too...but seeing her like that. Maybe...she had been a bit too blunt. She sighed, and started gently rubbing the top of the cats head. [color=8dc73f]"Oh quit crying Maoin."[/color] Gwynn replied with a sigh. [color=8dc73f]"I'm sorry, maybe...I was a bit too blunt, but didn't I just say I did like you? Can you at least wait until I finish talking before you break out into tears?"[/color] The kitten, of course, looked up and did her best to follow her orders. The petting felt nice ... and well, steeled her confidence a little bit. Her eyes was still watering, but they weren't creating small rivers. [color=darkslateblue]"... s-sorry mistress ..."[/color] Was her owner not planning on kicking her out, or just intending on being nice about it? Gwynn removed her hand from the top of Maoins head, giving her a smile before she continued. [color=8dc73f]"I...I don't want a Familiar, and I definitely don't want to be a noble or even treated like one. And I still don't. I don't like being doted on, and I don't like being treated like some fancy doll that you dress up. I have two good hands and a pretty good head on my shoulders most of the time. Honestly, Maoin, whenever you dote on me like that I feel...useless. And could you stop calling me mistress? My name's Gwynn. It annoys me when you treat me like I'm something special like that."[/color] She paused for a moment to further collect her thoughts. What else did she need to say here? While she was at it, she didn't want to leave anything out. [color=8dc73f]"But, well, if it was you I didn't mind. You're nice, and you...well you know, but I can't keep this up any more, Maoin. I don't want a familiar who goes around doing what think is best for me because its what my parents want. I don't want to be married to Swen, I [i]really[/i] don't. Is he a nice guy? Yeah, I guess he is but I just can't do it. Not with him. When you insisted on it the other night in the Library...I just, I lost it. I'm sorry I hit you, that wasn't right of me but I can't just let...whatever this is keep going. Seeing you depressed makes me upset and I just..."[/color] Gwynn sighed, this was going no where. Why did she always have trouble getting to the point in conversations like this? [color=8dc73f]"What I'm trying to say is...It may sound harsh but you've been doing nothing but what my parents have told you to. They tell me to get married to Swen, and you think that's suddenly best for me too. They tell me to behave like a good little girl and stay at home and be all safe in a gilded cage, that's obviously a good thing. I don't [i]want[/i] a life like that, and I certainly don't want to be married to someone like Swen."[/color] Was she repeated herself here? She felt like she was, just a little bit, but she just kept talking regardless. [color=8dc73f]"When I said I don't want a familiar it's because I'd rather have a friend. Someone who does things [i]with[/i] me. Not [i]for[/i] me. You know, go out! Get drunk together do what friends do!"[/color] She sighed, looking towards the ground. [color=8dc73f]"Sorry, I got a bit...wordy and a bit off topic there, I guess."[/color] She chuckled sheepishly. [color=8dc73f]"I just...don't understand you Maoin. How can you so easily follow me around? Why?"[/color] [color=darkslateblue]"Because I admire you. I always have."[/color] The kitten responded instantly to Gwynn's last point, without even the hesitation of thought or embarassment. Throughout her owner's speech, the kitten was able to keep her emotions in line, and prevent them from coming out. But now that she had spoken ... the black haired girl's tears started falling again, a bit more forcefully than before. Didn't want a familiar? Didn't want to be mistress? Didn't want to be treated nicely? Did that mean everything she had done up until then ... was simply an annoyance? The girl could somewhat understand the woman's discussion about Swen. The guy wasn't bad ... but perhaps he simply wasn't her type. Such a thing was the difficulty of an arranged marriage ... and of course. She also understood why she'd been hit, although the apology was appreciated ... but after all that had been said ... she had deserved it, hadn't she? Of course the accusation about loyalties shook the kitten up as she thought about it. Was it really true? The cat had simply followed them because it seemed like her owner's parents had a game plan ... whereas the mistress herself didn't. And if she did, the kitten was never told about it. And ... well ... her mistress didn't understand. The pirate princess never understood why she wanted to help out her owner, and seriously doubted the girl would enjoy doing her own laundry ... But ... had her mistress ever made an effort to be friends? Didn't their relationship inherently prevent that? And ... could she honestly view Gwynn as an equal? The kitten simply paused in silence, before speaking a few near silent words. [color=darkslateblue]"... so ... so ... I admire you, try to make your life better, clean for you so you can play ... and all I've ever been to you is a pointless, unwanted, annoyance? Di-"[/color] The girl cut herself off before anything followed ... was there anything else to say? Admire...her? What...how could she be [i]admired?[/i] She wasn't anything special? She wasn't a role model, and she was definitely not the good kind of influence. That was even harder to understand that not knowing. She would have asked too, had the Kitten not immediately started crying again, seemingly harder than before. She...well...she had expected Maoin to behave that way, but she didn't entirely think it would be that bad. [color=8dc73f]"What? No!"[/color] Gwynn replied quickly. [color=8dc73f]"Without you, Maoin I'd be a mess. I just..."[/color] How could she reply to that? What Maoin said wasn't a lie. She [i]did[/i] find it annoying, but she had never said anything because Maoin was...well, Maoin. But...she didn't want to lie. [color=8dc73f]"It was...I don't know, Maoin...."[/color] Gwynn didn't have an answer ready for this. She hadn't thought that this would even be an issue. [color=darkslateblue]"You ... you say you'd be a mess ... yet you don't want me?"[/color] The kitten felt her mistress was making very little sense, and the girl ... felt like she was losing her purpose. Her owner never had her thoughts collected ... but this was too much. She didn't know whether to feel mad, angry, or upset. [color=darkslateblue]"I ... admire you. And yet you can't even seem to make up your mind about whether my existence is worth anything at all to you?"[/color] [color=8dc73f]"Of course your not worthless!"[/color] Gwynn replied quickly. [color=8dc73f]"Y...you're always making sure I don't do something stupid, or taking care of me when I'm drunk! I just...don't like being spoiled or doted on."[/color] Honestly, she didn't understand what she was saying wrong here. Of course she appreciated Maoin, she thought she made that obvious with her words. She just didn't want Maoin to be so...doting. Always so insistent with the pampering and being treated like some sort of important person when she really, really, didn't want to be. [color=darkslateblue]"You say you want me ... as a friend. As an equal ..."[/color] At this point, the black haired girl was a little angry. She was about to be kicked out, so it didn't seem to really matter. Tears kept falling out of her eyes, but the girl kept speaking. [color=darkslateblue]"And yet, you appreciate what I do for you. Do you think a friend would always make sure you weren't being a dumbass, without ever being told 'thanks'? Do you think a friend would spend hours watching over you at night while you were drunk, without being drunk themselves? Do you think a friend would stay home and do you laundry so you can have fun at the practice field, without EVER being rewarded?"[/color] Of course, the girl debated waiting for a response. Gwynn said nothing as Maoin spoke, only trying to stutter out a few rebuttals as the kitten verbally berated her. She couldn't coherently form any words to say. Instead, she only turned her head towards the floor. She had no proper response, really. All she could do was keep looking at the floor, averting her gaze as Maoin continued to list everything she had to put up with in her time being her familiar. Really, Gwynn knew she wasn't the easiest person to get along with....hearing it from Maoin though, hurt more than she thought it would. In the end, all she could do was mutter in a quiet, meek voice the only thing she could think of to say. Whether the cat would hear it or not over her own sobs and ranting, was debatable though. [color=8dc73f]"...I'd do the same for you."[/color] Really, she would have...or at least try to, to the best of her ability. At this, Maoin raised an eyebrow. Surprisingly, it looked like as if she was resisting to laugh. [color=darkslateblue]"Day, after day, after day?"[/color] She shook her head after a moment clearing the thoughts away. [color=darkslateblue]"... and what about your other orders? You would have never have hid. Are you trying to tell me you would have appreciated me jumping into the face of danger? What if I had told you to do the same?"[/color] Her memories went back to that time ... [color=darkslateblue]"... and you didn't even give up your pride, or silly desire to be a hero, when I was in that woman's clutches. All you had to do was bow your head, and say 'I'm sorry'. Or even do nothing! But no, that ransom was far too expensive for you to pay, wasn't it?"[/color] Day after day? Well, it'd get tiring after awhile. Anyone would. Hell, she expected even a familiar would! That's why she didn't understand Maoin doing what she...did. She had never expected Maoin to clean up her messes and take care of her every single damn day of her life. That's why she found it difficult to deal with, because she wasn't good enough to do something like that. She didn't have the skills. She'd try her goddamn best if she had too, but she may be an idiot, but she wasn't a fool. She knew what was beyond the scope of her abilities. But when she was accused of letting her own pride and heroics get in the way in the Library, Gwynn looked up at Maoin, wearing a look of frustration. [color=8dc73f]"She hurt you, Maoin!"[/color] Gwynn replied, somewhat hurt that she was being accused of letting her pride get in the way of something hurting someone. [color=8dc73f]"I wasn't trying to be a hero! I just saw you getting hurt and...I just reacted!"[/color] Some anger was in her voice now, and she gave Maoin a small glare. [color=8dc73f]"Maybe I should have backed down. Maybe I should have surrendered, but I just couldn't stand the thought of someone hurting you! Even me!"[/color] The kitten recoiled two steps back now that her mistresses voice was raised, although it was pointless. If her owner wanted to hit her, the black haired girl knew she'd take the punishment ... but it was just a natural reaction. And even if she didn't accept the punishment, the ice mage could always use the bond they shared ... After a moment, Maoin glanced over to the side, unable to hold the angry gaze of her owner, and spoke in a much more meek voice. [color=darkslateblue]"... sorry ..."[/color] Of course, apologizing at this point wasn't going to get the two of them any further, even the kitten knew that. And to be fair ... that instinctual, unthought out actions were one of the reasons why she accepted her owner's call to become her familiar. After a few moments ... the girl looked up to the taller woman with some adoration. [color=darkslateblue]"... and ... and that's one of the reasons I'm glad I belong to you ..."[/color] The black haired girl took a step forward, returning her a little of the distance she had retreated. Belong to her? Gwynn sighed...she didn't want to have anyone belong to her. She just didn't want it, but she didn't say anything. She didn't still didn't have any answers. Luna and Swen both told her to ask her why she did what she did, and the answer she received from the kitten only caused her further confusion, and she had admittedly maybe got a bit off topic with her words. [color=8dc73f]"Why?"[/color] She asked again. [color=8dc73f]"I don't understand, Maoin. You do all of these things for me day in and day out. I never expected you to even do half the things you do."[/color] The kitten looked up at her owner, then down towards the ground as she thought about her reasons. She spoke slowly, giving plenty of time for what she was saying to sink in. Deep inside, the black haired girl knew her mistress was mostly telling the truth about earlier. Her owner oftentimes acted irrationally ... but it was entirely possible the nobleman simply didn't understand. [color=darkslateblue]"... Misst- Gwynn ..."[/color] It was obvious that using her owner's actual name made the girl visibly awkward, and after a moment she shook her head in order to dispel that feeling. [color=darkslateblue]"You ... you never think about things ... but ... but you follow what you believe in without question. It's admirable how you will do what you think is best at a moments notice, following your instincts."[/color] The kitten countinued speaking, looking up into the air. [color=darkslateblue]"Your adventurous soul. I think it's admirable that you always seek new experiences, unlike so many who live with what they've always known."[/color] A slight pause. [color=darkslateblue]"And you always pet me when I was a cat. When people need you ... you do your best to help. You are a kind person too."[/color] Then her face turned down, as if trying to hide it behind her hair. If her owner bothered checking, she'd probably see a slight blush. [color=darkslateblue]"And well ... you are pretty."[/color] But after that, the girl changed the subject, looking back up. [color=darkslateblue]"I love you but ... you're not the brightest tool. You behave irrationally constantly, put both of us in uneccessary danger, make lots of work for me, and seek action for the sake of action. But ..."[/color] [color=darkslateblue]"If it means seeing you smile on the way back after a day having fun in the mud, I'll do your laundry if it means you have more time for that. If you want to drink and be a little crazy, I'll take care of you. If you are giving me a silly order just to tease me, I'll follow it if it makes you smile. If you want to break into the restricted section of some place on campus, I'll follow you into the face of danger."[/color] The kitten paused for a moment, thinking about how to collect her next thoughts. [color=darkslateblue]"... Back in Ireland ... I ... saw a girl with the heart of a champion. But ... I also saw someone who needed a companion. Someone who would always be by their side, long after friends no longer tolerated them."[/color] The girl gestured to herself. [color=darkslateblue]"... I saw someone who needed reason, so I took this form to be as non-threatening as possible. I mean, this isn't intimidating, at all."[/color] The cat approached her mistress, wrapping her in a sudden hug and burying her face into Gwynn's shirt. [color=darkslateblue]"Maybe ... maybe I was just the first animal you picked up. But I choose you. I decided to follow you mistress, protect you, and ... be your companion. So ... please respect my decision. Trust me ... if you can."[/color] Gwynn couldn't say anything. What could she have said, here? There was absolutely nothing she could have said that would have made this any better. She was being an idiot again, as usual. Gwynn returned the hug, resting her own head on Maoin's shoulder. She guessed, in the end the why didn't really matter, had it? Maoin had always been there, even before she had became a familiar for her. She had never paid much thought to it, but she had, hadn't she? [color=8dc73f] "Of course I trust you, Maoin."[/color] She quietly replied. [color=8dc73f] "I'm sorry I'm such an idiot. I can never do these sorts of things right, you know? I just thought...maybe you were just doing these things because you were supposed to. I didn't want special treatment because of my status or simply because that's what familiars were supposed to do. Stupid, wasn't it?"[/color] she laughed softly. The kitten hugged a little tighter, crying (but now in relief) that her risk of being kicked out had practically been reduced to zero. [color=darkslateblue]"... I ... I understand ..."[/color] For a moment, she pushed them apart so she could speak eye to eye, or rather water to eyes.. [color=darkslateblue]"... And ... although I sometimes agree with your parents, I am yours. It's hard for me to be a good companion and follow you ..."[/color] A few sniffles followed, but eventually the kitten collected herself. [color=darkslateblue]"... When ...you don't tell me anything. Promise ... promise you'll tell me everything from now on?"[/color] The kitten resumed her prior position, crying into Gwynn's shirt. She supposed she really could have done a lot more in that department, but it was hard when she had no idea what she was supposed to say half the time in situations like this. Not without thinking about it for days. It'd be bad to make a promise here though, since she really had no idea what telling her everything would even entail. [color=8dc73f]"I will, Maoin. I will. But I'm an idiot. I don't think about a lot of things, and when it comes to people and situations like this, I just get cold feet and its...hard for me."[/color] She pushed Maoin off of her, looking down at the cat with a bright grin, and it looked like she was holding back a few tears herself. Unlike the ones she wore when she was messing with Maoin or scheming something. [color=8dc73f]"So...could you please stop crying? I'll try to be better at this whole...talking and being your master thing, alright?"[/color] The kitten nodded, and tried to stop crying. Well, she failed that order. She wiped away her tears only to have her eyes keep watering. [Color=darkslateblue]"... Yes, mistress ..."[/color] But, she was smiling back. After a few moments, the girl was conflicted between continuing to hold her owner, or doing something else. [Color=darkslateblue]"Is ... Is there anything else, mistress?"[/color] Gwynn rolled her eyes, deciding best not to push the cat any further. Instead, she reached up and started petting the cat on the head again. [color=8dc73f]"Didn't I tell you to call me by my name?"[/color] She laughed softly, and despite her words it didn't seem like she was at least going to seriously protest either way. The kitten nodded, but understood that Gwynn was mostly picking on her. [color=darkslateblue]"Of course, Mistress Gwynn."[/color] The kitten, now tired to their argument and the emotional strain of the previous week, yawned. The black haired girl looked up into her owner's eyes. [Color=darkslateblue]"... You look tired mistress ... Want me to ..."[/color] Maoin yawned again, wiping her tear streaked face. [Color=darkslateblue]"... Get you ready for a nap?"[/color] Truthfully, the kitten was trying to be a good servant ... And she felt like being close to her owner, for a few hours. Gwynn gave a playful pout at being called 'Mistress Gwynn' but otherwise said nothing. The thought of a nap sounded nice, though. After the events of the week, it was...nice to be able to get everything off her chest like this. And unlike Swen, she didn't exactly have much she had to 'prepare' for the mission, whatever that even meant. Though, the kitten looked much more tired than she did. The week had probably been harder on her than anything. [color=8dc73f]"I think you need a nap more than me."[/color] Gwynn said. [color=8dc73f]"So, I order you to take one and I'm not takin' no for an answer!~"[/color] Without warning, the kitten would find herself lifted off the ground with relative ease and being carried very briefly in Gwynn's arms as the blond swiftly carried her over to the bed. The kitten of course, wrapped her arms in a frantic and uneccessary attempt to maintain balance. [color=darkslateblue]"M-mistress!?"[/color] The black haired girl's face had gone completely red as she tried to stammed out a few words quickly. [color=darkslateblue]"I-I-I-can-walk-mistress!"[/color] Of course, the kitten wouldn't disobey an order, but ... [color=darkslateblue]"... my crate? Aren't you ..."[/color] A second later, the girl was plopped down onto her owner's bed. Her heart was pounding. She couldn't give her owner an order, but she was tired too, and it was her job to look out for her. [color=darkslateblue]"Y-You're joining, right mistress?"[/color] A second later, her previously red face went full tomato. [color=darkslateblue]"N-not that I'm asking for ..."[/color] The kitten's ears and tail were both active however, signs that everything was going ... normally, at least. Of course, she'd serve her mistress however she wanted but this was surprising. [color=8dc73f]"Of course I am!~"[/color] Not seconds later, Gwynn jumped onto the bed herself. [color=8dc73f]"And no, we're not going to do anything like [i]that[/i] Maoin, you silly kitty."[/color] Gwynn teased with a grin. It was more that...if she was going to try and at least be a decent master like Maoin was a good servant...well. She would need to take care of Maoin just as Maoin took care of her, right? She probably wouldn't get many opportunities, but now...well, they were both tired so there was no need for either of them to try and pamper the other. Gwynn stretched, yawning as she kicked off her boots and gave Maoin a grin. A few seconds later, she laid down, stretching again. The kitten of course, looked at the small piece of dirt accumulated on the sheets, tossing a playful glare over to her mistress. [color=darkslateblue]"... hmph. Already making a mess again, mistress?"[/color] But, Maoin would clean it. Not that she enjoyed cleaning, but because she wanted her owner to smile with her silliness and it was well worth that trouble. The kitten herself had already removed her boots at the door, but she sat up for a second and removed her apron and everything that wasn't her shirt, skirt, or collar. Then she curled up against her mistress, wrapping her arms lightly around her owner. [color=darkslateblue]"You're warmer than my crate ..."[/color] The girl seemed like she had more to say, but her eyes were closed and she was already obediently drifting off to the realm of sleep. Gwynn simply grinned impishly at the mention of her making a mess again, but didn't say anything. For now, she only let Maoin hug her, wrapping her own arm around the kitten. Soon enough, she had fallen asleep, and was resting her head lightly against Maoin's.