Chapter 7
The night was restless for Usagi. Her mind was filled with new information about the powerful families and her future role as the wife of the heir to the Kou family. She kept waking up, reaching out for Chibiusa, only to find her gone. In this uncertain environment, she felt lonely and lost. The absence of her siblings left a painful void in her heart, and thoughts of the street she once shared with them lingered.
Usagi could hardly close her eyes, and when she did, images of Seiya appeared in her dreams. His charming smile and bright blue eyes haunted her even in her sleep.
The next morning, Usagi was awakened by an overly cheerful Tellu. Tellu, always impeccably styled, seemed to never have a bad day. Her unnatural cheerfulness radiated from her. "Good morning, Serena!" chirped Tellu, throwing open the curtains. "It's a wonderful day, isn't it? I've already ordered your breakfast, and afterward, we'll work on your outfit for tonight. Oh, I have so many ideas; I'm really excited to see how it turns out. I'm already so thrilled."
Usagi rubbed her eyes sleepily, trying to get used to the new names and titles. "Good morning, Tellu." Being addressed as Serena was still unfamiliar, but she was gradually getting used to it.
Tellu led Usagi to the dining room, where a richly set breakfast table awaited her. The food was delicious, but her stomach, tied in knots from excitement and nervousness, made it difficult to eat. She forced herself to take a few bites as Tellu continued to chatter.
After breakfast, the elaborate procedure began. Tellu led Usagi into a spacious dressing room where an amazing selection of dresses and accessories awaited her. The stylist hung the different outfits on a long rack and looked excitedly at Usagi. "Serena, today is an important day. You'll meet the Kou family for the first time, and it's crucial to make a good impression. So, let's find the perfect outfit for you."
For hours, the two tried on dresses while Tellu eagerly explained why a particular outfit was ideal for the occasion or scrutinized Usagi to fetch the next one. Although Usagi usually had no great passion for fashion, she couldn't deny that the dresses were beautiful, and she felt like a princess. The transition from her life on the street to this glamorous setting was overwhelming, but she tried to adapt to the role of Serena Tsukino that she had to play from now on.
Usagi was currently wearing a beautiful kimono in delicate pastel blue, adorned with an elegant white floral pattern. The kimono enveloped her in gentle elegance, showcasing refined details. The floral vines meandered across the fabric, blossoming in the light color. The obi, holding the kimono together, was intricately tied, accentuating her slender waist. The wide sleeves of the kimono made her look majestic, while the fabric gently and fluidly swayed around her with each step. With the delicate train trailing behind her, she walked like a graceful princess. The kimono felt comfortable and soft against her skin, giving her an aura of timeless beauty and grace. Usagi twirled in front of the mirror, unable to deny how good she felt in it.
Tellu smiled with satisfaction. "That would be an excellent choice, Serena. You already radiate in it, and I haven't even started with the styling. Taiki Kou will surely be impressed." "Yes, I hope so," said Usagi, "and his brother too, if he recognizes me," she added mentally. Her thoughts quickly returned to Seiya, and the doubts and expectations in her heart became even more complex.
Usagi turned critically a few more times. "Don't you think it's a bit too much? I mean, it's so elegant. Shouldn't we go for something simpler?" Tellu just shook her head. "Absolutely not. You've already tried on at least twenty other outfits. This one is speaking to me; it's perfect for today. Get used to such clothing, and trust me. It will be simply wonderful. Although something traditional wasn't in my shortlist, on you, it's simply stunning." Usagi nodded with mixed feelings.
Usagi and Tellu took a short break after choosing the perfect outfit. While sitting on one of the comfortable couches in the dressing room, Usagi observed the bustling activity of the staff through the large windows. The estate was gradually transforming into a festive place. Flowers were carefully arranged, tables were set with fine china and silverware. The staff scurried busily, carrying heavy vases and arranging chairs. Even though she was amid this luxury and splendor, she felt overwhelmed and a little lost in this new world.
"I wonder how all this will end," Usagi said softly to Tellu as she watched the busy scene. "It's like I'm trapped in a fairy tale." Tellu smiled gently and placed a reassuring hand on Usagi's shoulder. "You'll manage, Serena. Mimete and I are by your side. Speaking of Mimete, she's expecting you after lunch for the final preparations. Then, we'll get you ready."
Mimete welcomed Usagi into a small, elegant salon illuminated by subdued light. Some documents and notes were already laid out on a table. Usagi took a seat, and Mimete began discussing the final details. Mimete emphasized every nuance that Usagi should radiate during this crucial encounter. It was evident that she stressed the significance of this meeting and prepared Usagi to navigate a world full of power and influence. "When engaging in conversation, remember to be polite and respectful," Mimete explained. "You'll meet many influential people, so be attentive and try to find your way in their conversations. But above all, Serena, be yourself. You are a Tsukino, and that means something." Usagi listened attentively as Mimete continued to speak, offering valuable tips. "Thank you, Mimete. I'll do my best," she assured after Mimete finished.
After the final discussion with Mimete, it was time for Tellu to apply her art of transformation to Usagi. Tellu started intricately styling Usagi's hair and makeup, enhancing the grandeur of the chosen kimono with every movement. Usagi sat patiently as Tellu worked her magic. It was fascinating to observe her own features in the mirrors, slowly transforming into the elegant and confident Serena Usagi Tsukino. The makeup emphasized her eyes, giving her a mysterious gaze. The hairstyle was artfully arranged, and sparkling accessories added brilliance. Tellu not only created external beauty but also instilled a confidence that was unfamiliar to Usagi yet felt good.
When Tellu finished, Usagi could hardly recognize herself. She felt like she had transformed into another person. Her heart pounded with excitement and nervousness. She couldn't help but look in the mirror and admire this new version of herself. Finally, the moment had come to descend and meet the guests. Most of them had already arrived, and the room was filled with cheerful murmurs and soft music.
Her father, Kenji Tsukino, waited at the foot of the stairs, extending his hand to receive her on the last steps. Usagi descended hesitantly and with a touch of nervousness, ready to present herself to the guests as the future wife of Taiki Kou. "Serena," he said with a proud smile. "You look wonderful. Are you ready?"
Usagi nodded, trying to hide her nervousness. Her heart raced in her chest, and her gaze anxiously scanned the crowd of guests, fearing to find Seiya. But he seemed not to be among those present.
Finally, they stopped in front of a distinguished man whom Usagi knew from Mimete's pictures. Taiki Kou.
Taiki Kou wore a perfectly tailored suit that accentuated his slender figure. His long brown hair was tied into a graceful ponytail that reached his waist. His amethyst eyes appeared piercing and calm, and he towered over Usagi by at least a head. His entire presence exuded authority and confidence as he stood before her, examining her critically.
Kenji introduced his daughter. "Taiki, it's wonderful to see you. Allow me to introduce you to my daughter, Serena Tsukino. Your future fiancée." "Serena, pleased to meet you." His voice was calm and composed as he politely extended his hand to her. Usagi smiled shyly and responded kindly, "The pleasure is mine, Taiki." Taiki briefly glanced at Kenji, and a silent dialogue seemed to unfold between the two men before he turned to Usagi. "Serena, I suggest we take a little stroll in the garden to get to know each other better. What do you think?" Usagi's heart raced, and she couldn't conceal her excitement as she agreed, "That sounds wonderful, Taiki." In that moment, Usagi felt like the protagonist in a drama whose outcome she didn't know.
Taiki gallantly offered her his arm, and she hesitantly hooked her arm through his. The cool night air felt invigorating, even though she was only wearing her thin kimono. She was accustomed to the cold and had experienced much colder nights in past winters. The clear starry sky and the gentle breeze were refreshing, helping to alleviate her nervousness a bit. The world around her was enchanted. Torches and lanterns illuminated the path as she strolled through the beautifully designed garden with Taiki. The lanterns cast a soft, warm glow over the garden, and the sounds of the night created a romantic atmosphere.
Taiki attempted to bridge the initial distance between them by starting small talk. "Your father hasn't told me much about you so far. To be honest, we were all surprised to hear that Kenji has another daughter. Where did you grow up, Serena?"
Usagi swallowed and thought for a moment. She couldn't possibly tell him the truth about her last years on the street. So, she decided to start at the point in her life when everything was still fine. "I didn't even know until a few days ago that Kenji is my biological father. I grew up here in Tokyo with my mother and her husband, in completely normal circumstances. And now, I've been catapulted into this world that is so different from anything I've ever known."
Taiki chuckled slightly. "You'll get used to this life. But if you didn't even know until recently that Kenji is your father, why did you agree to the wedding if you have no connections to this world?"
Usagi searched for an appropriate answer that wouldn't reveal too much. "Um... well... let's just say it was time for a fresh start, and Kenji came at the right time to enable me that fresh start."
Taiki furrowed his brow as he pondered over her words. "So, you willingly agreed to marry a complete stranger," he observed, trying to understand her true motivations. Feeling cornered, Usagi challengingly responded, "You did too. Or is someone forcing you to marry me?". Her words elicited an unexpected laugh from Taiki. "No, no one is forcing me," he replied. "I had expected from the beginning that my father would choose a wife for me, and I reconciled with that idea early on. What matters to me is that we get along; everything else will unfold."
Usagi contemplated his words. "So, you were never really in love?" Their steps slowed down, and she looked up at him. The faint light of the torches cast gentle shadows on his face as he smiled. "Of course, I've been in love before, but that doesn't change anything. I know my duties and what is expected of me. But what about you? Have you ever been in love?" Usagi felt her cheeks slightly blush, hoping that Taiki wouldn't notice this detail in the darkness. "Um... never really... it was complicated from the start, and before anything could develop, I ended up here. I couldn't even say goodbye to him." She avoided explaining the true circumstances, especially that the man in question was his own brother. Taiki understood her reluctance and didn't press further. "Well, then, we should make the best of our connection."
Suddenly, he draped his jacket over Usagi's shoulders, and she felt his warmth enveloping her. His gesture was unexpected and touched her in a way she hadn't anticipated. "Say, aren't you cold at all?" he asked with concern. Usagi shrugged. "I'll manage. But we can also head back slowly. We wouldn't want to be missed." She felt strangely relieved that Taiki was taking care of her, even if it was just a small gesture. If only he weren't Seiya's brother; that would make everything much simpler. "You can tell you have little experience with such things," Taiki remarked with a smiling grin. "As long as there are enough snacks and alcohol, our absence won't be noticed much. But alright, let's go back; then I can introduce you to my brothers if they have arrived by now."
When Taiki mentioned his brothers, Usagi felt a sudden unease, realizing that she would indeed encounter Seiya today. Taiki and Usagi made their way back to the hall. As they walked through the garden, the initial tension between them eased. It almost felt like they could genuinely build a friendly connection. Usagi started to feel more at ease in Taiki's company, although the concern of meeting Seiya still lurked in the back of her mind.
The music and cheerful conversations of the guests faded into a muted murmur in the background. Usagi scanned the room again with her eyes when suddenly her gaze froze. There he was, Seiya, standing right next to her father in a group of men. Seconds later, his eyes shifted to her and seemed to lock onto her.
A sudden surge of panic ran through her, and she couldn't help but hold her breath as Taiki led her directly toward Seiya. Her heart raced wildly, and she silently prayed that Seiya wouldn't recognize her. And if he did recognize her, she pleaded in her mind that he would keep their encounters to himself and preserve her true identity. It felt like her fate hung in the balance, and Seiya continued to stare at her in disbelief.