Inside, Noriaki was smiling, as giddy as a young lass in love, and outwardly she would have been smiling were it not for the interjection of the one who introduced herself as Shiroko. That was probably not a name she was going to remember anytime soon, White hair, sarashi, tabi...probably some kunoichi. Bad news those, never ones to fight fair, hiding in the shadows like a common thief. Noriaki once had a run-in with a kunoichi. It did not end as she hoped, and Noriaki was one whose hopes were astronomical. But, as much as she was in favor of simply ignoring the backhanded insulting words from Shiroko, Noriaki was not able to hold her tongue. She had already spoken up to the nobility, what was one little unknown? 

Or at least that was her intention before the Princess, seemingly amused by the rather impassioned plea, clasped Noriaki's hand, agreeing to let her join the protection crew. Noriaki's smile returned and with a quick movement, Noriaki bent forward, keeping her eyes locked onto the Princess' face as she lifted the royal hand and kissed it, perhaps letting it linger past what was considered acceptable greeting. 

"Why, Highness, does the sun have a reason for shining so brightly, does water have a reason for flowing so fiercely yet so beautifully? Like the sun above, my reason is simple. I just do as I need and do as I am needed. By the by, has anyone ever told you that your Highness' hand is softer and more warming than the finest silk? My own hand, as well as my lips, are blessed for having so much as touched such a fine, shining example of beauty." 

After removing her hand, with a rather dramatic motion, she turned to look at Shiroko, a slightly haughty expression on her face. "You see, Shikoko, [b]someone[/b] can appreciate talent and ability at a simple glance. Her Highness truly has the most impeccable of taste, and it is not pride that made her select me, but my years and years of experience in matters both physical and...private. As well as physically private. It is not pride with which I speak, but with confidence and evidence to support my claims, and I offer you as well as any other who doubts my claims to meet me upon the dueling fields. But I digress, as I will have ample opportunity to prove my words as I safeguard the Princess. Why, I could do it single handedly!"

Noriaki continued to smile, her rather...excessive speech finishing for the moment. The important thing was accomplished. She was allowed to join the protectors.