Northstar Vale Trust is for fools. Fear is the only reliable way.

It was the perfect moment for Hime to swoop in to her sister's rescue. While she did not immediately tuck in to the meal as the snake hoped, what came next was all the more interesting and useful. Reiko need not admit being tired as it was written across her every inch - but it was satisfying all the same for Hime to hear. She remained silent as she listened, nodding slightly, her face somber.

Then she murmured, If I may, sister... She moved in close, settling next to her, as they used to mirror one-another as children. One thing I learned as the leader of our clan, which may benefit you now more than ever... is that you cannot make everyone happy. It is best to make yourself content while upholding your values. That way your empire benefits the most. It sounded selfish. It was, to a degree. Hime always put herself first and it was time for Reiko to do the same.

A happy ruler leads to prosperity for the people. Father often said as much. Those that fight against you now are doing so out of fear, afraid of where your loyalties lay. If you are true to yourself then all will fall in to place. And she fell silent again, pressing a small nose-kiss to her sister's cheek.