She didn’t realize she was holding her breath, but as she spoke the words her lungs ceased to work and time stood still. Perhaps she had been wrong to hinge everything on another wolf’s decision, but this moment would have come either way. When Hattori stepped into the position of Shogun the clock had started ticking. He would either take his leave of her and Ashen, or he’d remain and agree to be her husband. She was frozen as his steely gaze lifted to hers, he’d already made up his mind. When he asked about the contract Hattori knew full well where the conversation would lead and as he gazed at her Venom felt overwhelmed. Not in a bad way, but more like everything suddenly felt so right.

Like a switch was flipped or the last piece of a puzzle was fitted snugly in place. Venom felt like she was on the right path, one of the few instances in her life. He accepted her offer, Hattori wanted her too. Venom bit back the sudden sob of emotion that was allowed free as she took a breath of relief. A thrill of excitement raced over her spine, and a grin brightened her features. ”You honor me greatly, Hattori.” She offered sweetly in reply. However calm and demure she looked, inside she felt like her heart would beat out her chest and she could scarcely keep her tail stilled at her hip. ”And bring me much joy.” The young Empress felt her voice slip as the emotions beneath broke through to reveal themselves.

And that was that. With no fanfare or melodrama things unfolded quiet and seamlessly, as though they had only been delaying the inevitable. Hattori did not believe in fate nor did he care to think about it but it was so rare for things to naturally progress like this, to work out in a way that left him satisfied and yet still left wanting. A hint of a smile tugged at his lips. Objectively speaking, any man would be lucky to have her and the fact she thought nothing of his foreign habits and mannerisms only solidified that in his mind. He was not a people person, a talker or a charmer- unlike his cousin in practically every regard- and yet for reasons he still didn't quite understand she chose him.

And thus she would have him.

"No. The honour is mine." He dipped his head a little and reached out for her paw and placed his atop of hers in a very rare display of-polite-affection. "I am unaware of the customs you may have, perhaps it would be best if you arrange matters?" But even then she was free to call upon him, as always he would help where he could.

Perhaps this was yet another thing they should mention at the upcoming meeting.