[quote=ReaptheMusic]
Ariiko realized, walking hand in hand with her Starlight, that with Ida asleep she could use this moment, to slip away from everyone. She was, after all, not fond of large groups."Noriaki..." She spoke seriously, her tone quiet but firm. "I have..."A sharp pain in her diaphragm kept her from speaking again, and the ronin fell silent.
[/quote]

Noriaki squeezed her muse's hand, gently, but still with a trace amount of tenderness in the gesture. So focused was she on the approaching alone time, that it was only when Ariiko spoke not the affectionate nickname, but her first name, and then went silent. Noriaki turned her head, worry clear behind her eyes. Releasing the hold on Ariiko's hand, Noriaki placed her palm onto the muse's shoulders and pivoted to stand in front of her, her other palm going to rest atop Ariiko's other shoulder. She gave a few gentle shakes, clearly concerned. Clearly worried. 

"My muse? Are you alright? Shall I carry you to the safety of our room or perhaps to a medical specialist? Are you hurt, tired....exhausted? Speak to me, if you can, for I am worried about your well being. I shall be there to see you through this sickness, if indeed that is what ails you."