Taking the horse out [day 7, late morning]

[Doji Fukawa]

The Crane did not possess the Unicorn's same faith in her horse riding abilities, and pulled the reigns back much earlier to halt than she needed to. Setem probably wouldn't plow into Akil...but why take the chance?

[Shinjo Akil]

Setem did stop, a few feet farther than Akil was anticipating. So he walked over and quietly pet the horse's head, eyeing Fukawa as she gathered herself.

[Doji Fukawa]

Fukawa looked pretty happy with herself. Not falling off, going pretty much where she wanted to.

"I have to admit, A-kun." she offered. "Horse riding is a lot more enjoyable than I thought it would be."

[Shinjo Akil]

He smiled wildly at her words, looking around a moment before his eyes settled back on her. Live in the moment. You will regret it if you don't.. He took a breath, looking now to Setem before he looked up to Fukawa. "I love you."

[Doji Fukawa]

Fukawa blushed.

"I love you too, A-kun." she replied. "I never would have thought in a million years I would find love...but I have."

[Shinjo Akil]

"I am blessed," he smiled broadly, "so blessed. Thank you, Fu-chan." He took a breath. "Would you prefer to let Setem walk for you for now?"

[Doji Fukawa]

Fukawa smiled.

"I would like that....although, do you think after the miai, when we're far away from everyone, he could carry us both?" she asks.

[Shinjo Akil]

"He could," Akil nodded. "I..." His face reddened, "look forward to finally being able to touch you, my beloved. Waiting is so difficult."

[Doji Fukawa]

Fukawa blushed at the Unicorn's direct words.

"Soon." she promised. "Given the scrutiny that's being given to your clan for propriety right now, we need to wait."

She leaned down and hugged Setem.

"Fortunately, it doesn't apply to your horse." she offered, enjoying the warmth of the steed.

[Shinjo Akil]

"I know," he nodded, "I never wish for you to be in danger because of me," be smiled as she hugged Setem. "and this but can serve as a reasonable go between until I take the name of Doji."

[Doji Fukawa]

Fukawa nods, sliding off the horse, easier than last time.

"Love finds a way after all." she offers.

[Shinjo Akil]

"that it does." He nodded to her. "Perhaps we can arrange a proper horse for you as part of the marriage agreements."

[Doji Fukawa]

Fukawa smiles.

"Maybe, although I think one of the local ponies might be a better fit for me." she offers.

[Shinjo Akil]

"Finding Setem to be too powerful for your tastes?" His head canted in curiosity.

[Doji Fukawa]

Fukawa smiles at that.

"No, but I don't want my steed to get all of the attention." she offers teasingly.