In her dreams, Luana found herself in another world — a universe where her little brother had been born two years before her, healthy and full of life. As the firstborn, he was the rightful heir, carrying the family name with pride. Though their roles were different, he was always kind to her — protective when it mattered most. And most importantly, he was alive. His presence filled their home with joy.
Luana could tell her parents had a special affection for him — but it didn't mean they loved her any less. That alone was enough to make her happy. She wasn't the only child anymore, no longer the center of attention, and that was okay. Free of pressure and expectations, she found joy in simple things and focused on her own dreams.
That's how it should've been, she thought.
The day her brother turned eighteen, the royal garden bloomed in full splendor. Everything was ready for the grand celebration, with nobles arriving from across the kingdom — especially young ladies eager to win his heart. Soon, it would be Luana's turn to choose her own path, and she couldn't be happier about it.
That's how life was meant to be. Normal. Balanced. Peaceful.
— What's your problem? — one of the girls snapped as Luana bumped into her accidentally.
— I'm sorry, I didn't see you there — Luana replied politely, trying to step away. But two other girls blocked her path.
— Do you really think someone like you stands a chance here? — the first one mocked, and the others laughed.
Their voices carried a foreign accent — noble daughters from distant lands, brought here to meet her brother.
Luana looked at them, then at herself. Compared to their elegance, her appearance felt... plain.
Her brown hair lacked shine, her eyes weren't quite light or dark, and her figure didn't match society's idea of beauty. But when she was alone, none of that mattered. Still, she couldn't understand why her presence often made others uncomfortable. Why did people always seem to notice her, even when she tried to disappear?
— Good afternoon, ladies — her brother arrived just in time. The girls immediately backed off and greeted him with charming smiles.
Luana slipped away quietly, but their voices still followed her.
— Wait… she's your sister?
— Such a shame… someone like you having a sister like that...
Time froze.
A shadow appeared in front of her — tall, cloaked in mystery.
— You don't belong here — he said, and with a wave of energy, pulled her out of the dream.
When Luana opened her eyes, she was back in her room — cold, colorless, and painfully real.