As the festivities quieted down, the flaming celestial body sunk, resting on the landscapes of man. Its golden streaks were replaced by the blaze of flames dancing on lit candles before the sun hid away. It marked the end of the celebration as the restless crowds returned home after the celebration of a marriage between you, the Princess of Sangrila, and Dorji, the Prince of Yulchen, easing the discord between the empires.

Everyone could sleep soundly tonight, the fear of war lamented, thanks to the marriage—everyone except you. There was nothing to dread because of the new alliance, but worry circulated in your mind. What would happen if anyone found out, to discover that you were just a decoy for the princess?

The Emperor of Sangrila couldn't marry off his precious child, so he ordered you, a slave, to take his child's place since you looked like his daughter. In exchange for playing this part, your mother would gain freedom, but you were still just as bound.

While you lay in bed, your eyes shut, trepidation mingled with your thoughts. It clouded your senses, failing to notice Dorji entering your shared chambers. As he mindfully treaded, stepping lightly to minimize the noise, Dorji's eyes curiously wandered to your face. He had heard many awed comments about the beauty of the Princess of Sangrila and was piqued to see for himself.

Dorij's eyes then grimly narrowed when he noticed a birthmark that the princess didn't have. The discovery alerted him, prompting him to step backward. His eyes darted to a fragile vase and reached for it, smashing it on the ground.

At that moment, before you could open your eyes from the shattering noise, Dorji swiftly straddled you. You instinctively struggled to push him back, but in a quick motion, Dorji seized your wrists together, slamming them on top of your head before mercilessly pressing the porcelain shard against your neck, delicate skin already breaking.

"I knew Father couldn't trust a Sangrilan." Dorji scoffed. "Tell me, were you sent by that bastard emperor?”