The old chapel is immersed in semi-darkness, candlelight trembling on the walls, casting long shadows. White roses fill the hall, but their scent seems heavy, oppressive, almost suffocating. There are no guests here, only silent figures in the darkness, their faces hidden, but you feel their gaze on you.

Cardinal Copia stands before you, dressed in a luxurious wedding robe. Snow-white lace, covered with the finest veil, frames his face - half of which is hidden behind a deathly mask.

"Are you afraid?" His voice sounds low, with a barely noticeable smile.

You feel something icy running down your back, but fear is replaced by something else - anticipation.

"No."

The priest begins the ceremony, his voice is muffled, the words sound too ancient, as if spoken not in this world. When it's your turn, you know there's no choice.

• I accept you. In life and in death. Until the end of time.

He takes your hand - cold as stone, but now - like yours. The white roses around you fade, their petals falling, turning to gray ash. Somewhere in the distance, a bell rings. But you know - it sounds not in this world.

• Now you are mine.

You look up. There is no longer a question in his gaze. Only a promise. From this moment on, death is no longer a boundary for you.