momma's always right

Hattori was taking the news better than she’d expected, but then again he did tend to keep everything buried under the surface. Even her mother’s intuition couldn’t tell if he was taking it in stride or if he was packing internally, but his heavy lean against Venom seemed to indicate a bit of both. She felt a bit of pride when he asked her if it pleased her, the notion that he was putting her opinion before his own on the matter showing what a gentleman he was. The woman knew that it likely wasn’t easy for him to say, because even though she didn’t know what his thoughts were on starting a family or when, she figured he’d always known he’d have them at some point. It had been his duty as heir, just as it had been hers to have him. Of course, she’d always wanted children...but life’s circumstances had prevented her from as many as she’d hoped.

When Venom mentioned preparations Kiyo gave a small nod. “I am sure you have much to discuss. I won’t be a burr in your fur for it, so I will take my leave if you please. Would I be able to be shown a room?” she asked, rising to her paws wearily. She could feel her body protesting from fatigue and Aki was quick to her side to help her, though Anko gave her a sidelong glance. She gave a soft smile and a nod, “You may stay if they allow it.” Kiyo was well aware of the affection that the akita had for Hattori, since the dog had been the companion of the Shogun’s cousin and best friend Takemikazuchi before the man’s demise. They’d surely spent a lot of time together and the same protective instincts he’d had for Take would have transferred over to Hattori.

Speaking of Hattori, the woman’s warm silver gaze met the former Iga heir’s, her soft smile remaining. “When you are finished, please come see me and I will explain everything,” she promised with a bow of her head.