Roses After Winter

Chapter 1: "The Record Of June 17, 1861"

June 17, 1861
"Dear Diary,
It's my 19th birthday today. Another year of misery has been bestowed upon me. When shall I ever break free? Is there hope for the liberation I have been longing for? Or will I just rot in the walls of my bedchamber?

I only wanted one wish in life and that is to reunite with the man I have fallen for deeply. Was that too hard to ask for? Has fate really given up on me and has left me to be forgotten in time? So many questions yet the universe has left them unanswered.

I am aware that today is the day to celebrate my birth or another year lived, but I can't help but feel this void. This void that has been in my heart for many years. As I look outside the glass window, I can't help but wonder, how does it feel to celebrate my birthday with people who love me? I can't help but wonder how happy it must feel. But then again, I'm not allowed to leave this palace and bedchamber.

Dear father, dear mother, do you really know what is best for me? Truly, you are my parents but I can't help but wonder. Is this essential for me? This miserable spot you are putting me in throughout my life.

Maybe in the future. Maybe fate will finally break the chains that hold me captive and set me free. I always long for that day. And maybe, find what truly makes me happy.

Sincerely,
Kuragari"

"So this is the only writing that survived?" A young boy said as he scanned each page of the book. "Indeed.It belonged to a Princess back in the 18th century." An old woman sitting by the window responded. "But, how do you have this grandma? And who is this Kuragari?" "Ah, so many questions. Now, now, off to bed. Your parents will arrive tomorrow." The old woman said as she lightly pushed the boy to his room and tucked him in. "But grandma, please tell me her story! I promise I'll behave!!" The little boy pleaded as he refused to go to bed. "Alright, alright. I'll tell you everything..."

Kuragari... A name I haven't heard for centuries... A beautiful yet unfortunate woman. A woman who never should have lived on this earth...