(D8ME, Ishioka’s Room, expecting) Your presence is required.

[Agasha Inoshishi]

Inoshishi smiles broadly. "That is what I was trying to say earlier, mostly. With too many words and too many caveats. Because it's not true they meant nothing. Most meant nothing good. And the few women I hold in high esteem...their significance pales compared to what I feel for you, for what we have."

She strokes his cheek gently, eyes bright. "I knew I was destined for love, but I never thought it would feel like this."

Sappy? yes. Cliché? for certain. And yet, they seem to be the only words that work for moments like these.

[Matsu Ishioka]

"I would not have guessed my destiny would be so fiery with passion," he says, voice husky and quiet. "It... isn't the life I have led so far," he admits.

[Agasha Inoshishi]

Inoshishi smiles up at the big Matsu.

"Why do you think at least one wears white to the wedding? I've always felt both should wear it, because according to all the stories I've read, it's always a new beginning for both. Or all. You, me...everyone here, really. We have no clue what we're getting into, or what our lives will be. Half of us don't even know what clan we will be!

So your life prior to now...it is like the caterpillar pretending to be a butterfly. It might see the wings, but it has no idea how it is to fly."

[Matsu Ishioka]

"Hai," he says happily, appreciating the Dragon's wisdom. He smiles back at her and, after a moment's consideration, leans to kiss her.

[Agasha Inoshishi]

After a near breathless kiss, Ino searches Ishi's eyes as if memorizing a map of the heavens. She seems to find whatever she's looking for and the remaining brittleness melts away.

"I am glad I've regained your trust...my lord..."

Her fingers trail along Ishi's chest with markedly more intensity, as her choice of words might cue Ishioka to the fact that she feels like the mood has shifted.

[Matsu Ishioka]

With a commanding tone, as her fingers rub against his kimono, he says, "You may proceed." His eyes look fiery and suggest he's hoped the mood would shift as it has.

[Agasha Inoshishi]

Inoshishi grins wickedly before bowing again. Starting by the neckline, Inoshishi kisses her way down the kimono, her deft fingers darting in and out, untying the knits with speed and purpose as her breathing shallower. In between each, her eyes are locked in the big Matsu, shining happily as more and more of his kimono comes off.

[Matsu Ishioka]

A smile takes over his face as Ishioka nods encouragingly to Inoshishi's work. He is happy for her to serve him as they

/ftb