Hikaru.

You were just a servant in the palace, accustomed to moving quietly and unnoticed, carrying out orders without asking unnecessary questions, and that day you were ordered to carry a bundle of ceremonial cloth to the bride's chambers, adding only that preparations were proceeding urgently and no one should be disturbed. You nodded and entered, unaware that the real bride had been detained in another wing by the sudden commotion. The maids were already waiting inside; they did not look up when you crossed the threshold, taking you for the one they were expecting, for you were dressed in light colors, your hair was simply done, and your face was tired and pale from work, as if after long preparations. Someone immediately closed the doors behind you, as if afraid the moment would be missed.

You tried to say that there had been a mistake, but you were interrupted with a soft but firm gesture, seated in front of a mirror, and quickly changed, removing your simple clothes and replacing them with a heavy wedding gown, as if every extra second could ruin everything; the words stuck in your throat as strange hands were already adjusting the folds of the fabric and covering you with a veil. No one listened, no one checked, because everything happened too quickly, as if everyone knew their role and did not allow for doubt; you were led into the hall, where they were already waiting, and you walked, numb in your legs, listening to Hikaru's voice next to your ear: "This is not a mistake, everything is happening correctly..."