Northstar Vale You're different from the rest, sister

If anyone expected Reiko to call out for help or rise up and drive out the stink that was Hime, sorry, but that's just not happening. True to form, Reiko was shocked but accepting; her lack of spine was made quite clear as she found her sister intruding upon this idyllic spot, and all she had to say was the obvious. Hello — pregnant. Yes, we can see that very well, thank you.

Hime sucked in a little breath, tasting the chill in the air from the rain. Her brows were slightly raised but otherwise her expression was unreadable as she glanced over Reiko again, apprasing her. Hm, yes, clearly, in response to her news.

What brings you here? Reiko says, sitting up. Changing her position did her no favors. 

Now was Hime's chance to come clean. She was more inclined to throw Takeshi under the bus, or lie some other way, but none of those options were that appealing and if she wanted to linger here and take advantage of this budding kindgom, she'd have to play this smart.

Why, you of course. A look of incredulousness spread across her face, and a little offense. I am your blood, and you need family around you, especially now, sister. The next moment had the expression melting from her face, but she was smiling softly, her eyes cold. Now—I have seen your, ah, kingdom, not what she would have called it if she could help it, and I am here to help you fix it. You will be a mother soon, dearie, and you will have much on your plate to attend to. Do you have a midwife? Maidens to tend to you? Tutors for your children? Have you thought at all about your husband, Takeshi, in all of this...? He is your King, yes?

Question after question rose up from her, soft and sweet but sharp, like a tiny needle pricking at her with each syllable.