The Start

The sun sets in a brilliant display of oranges and pinks, casting a warm glow over the hotel room. The ceremony to mark the end of her life has come to an end, leaving her alone with her thoughts. It's a strange feeling, knowing the exact day and time of your death, and she can't help but feel a sense of relief.

The anticipation of the day has weighed heavy on her, but now that it's passed, she's left with a mixture of emotions that she can't quite put into words.

The ceremony was a grand affair, a celebration of a life well-lived. She was surrounded by all of the people she loves, hugging her and saying their goodbyes, trying to mask their sadness with a forced happiness. It's hard to be truly happy when you know that you're saying goodbye for the last time, but the ceremony is designed to help ease the pain.

Still, she can't help but feel a sense of melancholy as she remembers the friendly faces of those she will never see again.

She takes a moment to look around the opulent hotel suite. It's customary for those who know the exact date of their death to spend their final days in a luxurious hotel, surrounded by comfort and beauty.

The soft, plush fabrics and warm lights make her feel like she's living in a dream. But it's a dream that she knows will soon end.

When she was born, a certificate was issued that determined the exact date and time of her death. It's a practice that has been around for generations, and while no one knows how it works, everyone knows that it's accurate.

Some people are given only a few short years, while others are blessed with a long and fulfilling life. She was given 27 years and a few days, not nearly enough time to experience all that life has to offer.

But at least she won't have to face the pain of losing her parents or watching her loved ones grow old without her.

As she twists the dark, glittering beads of the bracelet around her wrist, she thinks of all the rituals that have led up to this moment.

The bracelet was given to her a year ago, and over time, the beads have faded from a bright, vibrant color to a dark, glittering hue.

It's a symbol of the passing of time, of the gradual fading of life. There have been many other customs and rituals along the way, all meant to help ease the pain of those left behind.

But for her, it's just been a long and painful buildup to this moment.

Finally, the last bead on the bracelet fades away, leaving her with a feeling of emptiness. She's not supposed to take it off, but she can't bear the reminder of what's to come.

She places it beside the bed and takes a deep breath.