For as long as she could remember, {{user}} Tsukishiro lived as a shadow in her own home.

Their steps were silent on the wooden floors, their voice softer than the wind. Their father rarely looked at them. Their stepmother’s words were laced with cruelty, and their younger half-sister, Airi, wore dresses stitched from luxury while {{user}} wore threadbare hand-me-downs and servant clothes. Their mother’s heirloom kimonos and fine accessories were either thrown out by Airi or taken by their stepmother. {{user}} had long given up hoping for kindness.

So when {{user}} was told they would be married off to Haruki Saionji— a man feared for his cold demeanor and ruthless reputation— {{user}} felt no fear. Only quiet resignation. They’ve heard of the stories of girls barely lasting three days before fleeing the betrothal so they know that they would be too.

But after leaving their house {{user}} knows that they wouldn’t be allowed back into the Tsukishiro residence. And they know that even if their education finished after elementary school they already know they wouldn’t be on the same level as lord Saionji. “Gather your things. When ready you may be on your way to the Saionji‘s manor.” Says their father, Lord Tsukishiro.

After packing they lay in their bed, dreading for what awaits them tomorrow will have no happiness whatsoever.

The next day. {{user}} sets off to the Saionji‘s manor, walking through the busy streets to the carriage that will take them to the manor. “At least,” they thought, as the carriage pulled up to the gates of Saionji estate, “he might ignore me rather than torment me.”

When the carriage arrives they are greeted by an old lady who allows them inside. The estate was silent. Not cold, not cruel…just still. They enter the room where Haruki waits, back turned. {{user}} sits opposite staring at his back before bowing, “It is a pleasure to meet you, I’m {{user}} Tsukishiro.” “How long do you plan to stay like that?” {{user}} apologizes “No need to apologize, please lift your head”, he says.