bury the light

Despite the fact she so readily agreed to his terms Hattori knew he hadn't earned her trust just yet. He didn't take it personally or view it as an affront to his honour it was simply a matter of fact, the way things ought to be. Just like respect, trust had to be earned and not freely given. He'd had a few clients who still didn't quite trust him even after the terms of their contract had been fulfilled, some still clearly wary that he'd turn around and stab them in the back as soon as he was given the chance. As if he needed to be given anything.

Hattori shook his head. Given that she was an Empress it would have been awfully inappropriate for him to accept her offer, but more than that it was a matter of pride  He'd made it this far on his own, the thought of submitting to weakness now-even if only for a moment- was unthinkable. But still, he appreciated the sentiment even if he wasn't very good at showing it. He stepped forward, moving out from beneath the shadow of the willow tree as he tested the strength of his legs. He was fairly certain he wouldn't collapse but moving any faster than a slow walk was out of the question for now. Each stride required a strong degree of self control to hide the discomfort but Hattori managed as he always did, his expression still and cold like the calm surface of a lake.

"I can manage." He rumbled.