"Are you okay, Mira?" Hana asked. Hana is my sister—my sibling in my new family.
Yes. Her family adopted me. Her father's older brother is the Chief, the leader of the Hong Clan. But since her father was the youngest, he wasn't the heir. He didn't hold any resentment, so it was fine.
Their family was kind and treated me like their own.
Why did they adopt me? Where is my real family?
It's been a while, but I still remember the last time I saw them.
My parents were members of the Hatake Clan—the origin of the Hong Clan. No one knew this except the members of the Hatake and Hong Clans. How did the Hong Clan come from the Hatake?
Back then, the Hatake ruled over both clans. The Hong family was small and relied on the Hatake for protection. The Hatake were known as lions in battle, feared by all. Hiyosko always turned to them when they needed warriors for wars against other nations. But they were still human—some died, some barely escaped death.
The last war… That was also the last time I saw them.
Every warrior from the Hatake Clan was sent, along with anyone willing to fight. Even the Hong Clan sent their best. But since their family was small, only a few went. Meanwhile, nearly all the Hatake went—except for a handful of women and children.
When the battle ended, some survivors returned… but my father never came back.
The survivors said they did everything they could to protect the weaker ones—to shield other clans and families living in Hiyosko.
It hurt, but I slowly accepted it.
Two days later, the remaining Hatake and Hong Clan members decided to change the clan's name. The Hong Clan would take over, carrying on the legacy—but under their name. From then on, only those familiar with the Hatake knew the truth. To everyone else, we were the Hong Clan.
Our clan was always secretive. Only now have they entrusted the name. Back then, it was: "You'll die before I tell you."
My father was the leader of the warriors when the Hatake still ruled. He was an exceptional fighter—which was why my mother fell for him. His personality was unique too. And I always knew that one day, he wouldn't hesitate to give his life for others. That's just how he was.
My mother died before I turned twenty, in a heated battle between clans.
Everything was chaotic back then. But they never complained when called to fight for Hiyosko.
And now… the Hong name is all that remains.
Still, the sacrifice of the Hatake is forever etched in my heart.
Oh, right—my father was a Hatake, and my mother was from the Hong Clan. That makes Hana and me cousins. The people I now call "Mom" and "Dad" are actually my aunt and uncle.
"Oi, Mira. I've been calling you—"
"S-Sorry. Just thinking." I stuttered, looking at myself in the mirror.
I was wearing a red kimono, with an ornate hairpiece weighing heavily on my head. Honestly, I didn't know what my relatives were thinking. But if this was the way to mend the rift between the Chen and Hong Clans, I'd accept it.
Hana sighed.
"I know you don't want this, but I'm sorry for Uncle's decision. Still, we believe you're the only one fit for this role. You're a descendant of the Hatake Clan. You know that." She applied lipstick to my lips before smiling. "There. You're stunning. I'm sure even that grumpy man will like you now. If he scowls during the wedding, I'll deal with him myself. And you—just be happy. I'm sure the day will come when you two get along." She grinned.
"Thank you, Hana." I hugged her tightly. "Really, thank you."
After our little moment, I stepped out.
There were still many ceremonies before the actual wedding—traditions from both the Hong and Chen Clans. First was the procession, then other rituals.
Minutes later, I found myself at the altar, standing beside him.
He stared at me.
Then, he removed the hairpiece from my head. My long hair cascaded down, adorned with red floral designs. He stepped closer.
Is this the part where he… kisses the bride?! Is he really going to kiss me?!
I swallowed hard, blinking rapidly. I saw the corner of his lips twitch—before he pressed a light kiss on my forehead.
My face felt like it was on fire.
Applause erupted around us.
"You look… alright. But I'll still reject you." His voice was low as he stepped back.
I looked up, meeting his gaze.
Slowly, I smiled. He didn't seem to expect that reaction.
"W-Weirdo." He muttered.
The scenery was breathtaking. The sky was filled with stars, and for some reason, my heart felt lighter. Like I could face anything.
"Tsk."
I turned and saw Zeid about to leave—he'd noticed I was here too. But before he could take another step, I grabbed his arm and pulled him back into the garden, pointing at the sky.
"The sky is so beautiful, isn't it? Think about it—there are as many people as there are stars, yet here we are, brought together. I didn't want this either, but… let's try to get along." I smiled.
"Are you insane? No matter what you say, I'll still reject you."
I laughed, looking at him.
"Don't be like that. From now on, we're—"
"No. I'll make sure you stay far away from me." His tone was sharp. I pouted—but then, I noticed fireflies fluttering near him.
I couldn't help but smile.
"What?" he snapped.
"One day… do you think you'll accept me?" I asked, watching the fireflies that seemed drawn to him. Honestly, even though he was arrogant and rude… he was beautiful to look at.
He turned away.
"Tsk. I won't repeat myself, you crazy woman." He walked off.
Ugh, seriously—
I exhaled, shaking my head.
"I'll still look forward to it, Zeid."