kaede smiles at her daughter's fanciful words, turning her head to admire the glittering bits of decoration which framed tatsuhime's face nicely.
mother slices fish into a meal for her child. tatsu has first taste, and her mother laughs softly.
she urges more roe into the girl's portion.
the empress wants you to serve her as a personal handmaiden. you will live close to the royals and you will have many chances to ascend high in this dynasty.
a pale paw reaches to cup tatsuhime's cheek.
you will spend your days with the empress, learning all that you can. now, tatsuhime, what do you think of this?
her straight back and soft tone say that this is an honor best not rejected.
is it not wonderful, my butterfly girl?
