Northstar Vale There’s So[M]ething Going on and It’s Happening Now

Takeshi was awakened that morning by a somewhat distant, loud wail. 

Well shit. That couldn't be good. 

The emperor was making his way to the source of the sound as soon as he could, but the path felt sickeningly too familiar as he came closer. No... anything but this. 

There just ahead, a small congregation huddled around something he couldn't quite make out yet, but he knew the spot- knew exactly what sight would be there to greet him. 

A week among the worms- he didn't want to look. Didn't want to. 

But he had to. He had to. He knew his reaction had to be prime genuine, even if there was already Hiromi there, who could certainly see right through him.

And so Takeshi made his way forward, What's goi- -ng on? He had meant to finish naturally, but he caught sight of her face- rotted skin sinking in, eyes looking sickly glazed. Without any intention of acting, the emperor gagged and immediately vomited. 

That was umpleasant, but back to acting. What the- what the HELL is THAT!! He shouted, staggering backward.

R-Reiko?!?