Ain't no justifying

Though her father seemed somewhat reluctant to admit to any shortcomings that he may have had, he did so gracefully. Ikigai accepted his assurance with a nod. If he was well, then she was relieved. Hattori was a pillar of Ashen and, despite her easy going ways, she truly needed her father in her life. He brought a sense of safety to the girl that she wasn't sure that he even knew of.

The massive man directed the girl's mercuric gaze to a bamboo fountain that he'd had crafted especially for her. Before she had even joined his side, the rhythmic tap and swish had provided its soothing sound. These little gestures that he made for her... they showed his love and care. He wasn't a physically affectionate wolf, but he did show that he cared. "Otou-san... Thank you so much." Lifting her face upwards, a sweet smile tugged at Iki's obsidian lips. "I could listen to this sound forever," she admitted. There was so much of her father in her. She held such a respect for the Iga lifestyle and ways.

Respect... duty... It reminded the girl that she had something to discuss with her sire. "Otou-san..." she began in serious, yet mellifluous tones. "When I was ill with the crystal sickness... I almost died. The earth had begun to swallow me up and the crystals had started locking me to the ground." It was still terrifying to think of. "Prince Kotori Fatalis of the Armada." The usually demure girl met her father's gaze firmly. "He saved my life. I would be dead if not for him. I owe him a debt." Ashen owed him a debt, though she didn't wish to tout her own self worth so blatantly. She would leave this decision and the reward up to her father and mother if they deemed that a reward was necessary.

"X"