(Day 4, EM) Before the Steppe Gets Wet (Open, Riders!)

[Shinjo Kemuri]

Kemuri nodded and spurred Sarangerel to gallop faster.

[Shinjo Liu Fei]

Fei could only laugh at that, loud enough that it also served as an agreement to the idea. Readying herself and Gokiburi for the race, taking off with the others for a proper three way race. Always, more for entertainment than to show off.

[Moto Butaj]

Huludai wasn't going to wait for special encouragement.

/ride to horizon!

[Usagi Tsukimi]

Eventually when he brings her back down to a trot, he nods. "Which part? Moving fast or holding me tight," he ask with a chuckle. "I suspect that a woman as lovely and talented as you will have plenty of chance for the former. It all depends on how the miai plays out on the latter."

"Why not both?" He can hear the humour in her voice.
"Yes, it all depends on if fortune favours me during this miai. I think I will have to make a good impression, for it is not me who will pick my husband, but my husband who chooses me as his wife."

[Shinjo Monkhbaatar]

"There are still tests left. Have faith in yourself Tsukimi-san. Though whether you choose or are chosen, one thing is true. You will have a very lucky husband. And with my natural luck, I wonder if that might be a sign."

[Usagi Tsukimi]

"Might it be, Shinjo-san? Fortunes favour the bold, and I fear I am not as bold as some of the other women here looking for their husband. Hare are cautious."

[Shinjo Monkhbaatar]

"Perhaps you should take that bold step then Tsukimi-san, if you think it would be favored by fortune," he replies. "Take a chance and see how things work out."

[Usagi Tsukimi]

"...Perhaps I will be bold, Shinjo-san," she said demurely, and hugged him closer atop his steed. "Perhaps I may surprise you."

[Shinjo Monkhbaatar]

Feeling the tighter hold of the Hare, he smiles to himself. "I do enjoy surprises. I wouldn't love exploring so much if I didn't. But then, that is what this miai is about no? Exploring the other potential spouses and getting to know who they are. Hopefully being pleasantly surprised all the while. Figuring out who among those present is the closest match," his hands rest on hers as they continue moving. "Thus far, I've enjoyed our exploration."

[Usagi Tsukimi]

She smiled and leaned her head against his shoulder. "We've hardly begun, you promised to show me the world."

[Shinjo Monkhbaatar]

"I'd love to explore the world with you. That would be a wonderful experience. But where would we even start given the opportunity?" he asks.

[Usagi Tsukimi]

"Wherever our hearts guide us, I'd imagine."

[Shinjo Monkhbaatar]

He smiles at her. "That would be wonderful. And while I would look forward to such a life with you, do try to remember that it's not a given with how this miai ends. There are any number of situations that could result in us not ending together. Please make sure you are getting to know some of my fellow Unicorn. I know we've developed a connection in the short time we've known each other, but reality can be a bit more cruel than hopes."

[Usagi Tsukimi]

She was quiet for several moments, and her grip on the Shinjo lessened some.
She chose her next words carefully.
"I care for you. Deeply. But I am not going to leave this miai brokenhearted for the one who got away. I would be happy to be chosen by you, but if it is not meant to be, I will cherish this horse-ride and whatever else we enjoy together here, and we will part as friends."

[Shinjo Monkhbaatar]

When her grip lessens he tightens his hands on hers. "I am glad to hear that and what I want for you is your happiness more than anything. If that is with me then I know I'll be happy as well. If it is not, I hope that there is someone else here other than myself that can make you happy. Just because we care for each other and can picture an exciting life together does not mean you should stop looking though. No matter what happens, first and foremost, I want my friend Tsukimi-san to be happy."