Noriaki gave a short, curt nod, placing her hand onto Ariiko's shoulder. The woman had closed her eyes, had held her head...something was wrong. Was this what she was referring to? The darkness inside of her? Following Ariiko's words, Noriaki shook her head, lightly gripping the possessed woman's shoulders - more so in a gesture of comfort than one meant to cause pain, and she smiled. It was a warm smile, with her lips turned upwards at the corners. It was easy to smile, when faced with one who brought you joy, such were Noriaki's feelings on this matter. 

"I do not need them to see my worth, my value, for you do, and that is what matters most of all. But if you wish me to continue on this quest with them, I will not do so without you at my side. Come with me. Come with us. We will finish this task and then we will part ways with the others, and seek our adventures elsewhere. If you do not agree to this, I will simply abandon them and follow you instead. I am committed to our promise, Ariiko, to share blades, to share our presence, and perhaps even to share our bodies once more."

Having said her piece once more, Noriaki made the bold choice. Still holding onto Ariiko's shoulder, she leaned down and moved to place a soft kiss onto the woman's cheek, caring not who saw.