Withered flowers, withered youth
Would it be easier if I just closed my eyes?
He sat in the classroom, staring at you.
Right, that must be what real talent looks like.
Unlike me, it was a talent so radiant that I had no choice but to see it, even if I didn't want to. A talent I could never surpass, no matter how much I struggled or what I did.
I'm working so hard. I'm working harder than anyone. Why, then?
It felt as if all the days I spent grinding my body down to study were thrown into the mud. Why have I lived like this? If I was just one of the mediocre masses destined to be buried by brilliant talent, then I...
What was I striving for?
My head felt dizzy. My heart pounded so hard that the sound echoed in my ears. Emotions like jealousy, resentment, and anger clumped together, hammering at my head and stabbing at my heart.
No matter what I thought, even if I tried to wrap my thoughts in self-pity and blur them with rationalization, the light still shone brightly.
I have no choice but to understand, even if I hate it.
That I am just one of the mediocre in front of you, and you are the most brilliant talent in front of me.
My stomach churns deep inside; I want to throw it all up. Along with these disgusting emotions, my life, and all my days to come.
You approached me as if worried about my condition. I tried to spit out harsh words to push you away, but the words wouldn't come out.
You looked at me and slowly opened your mouth. I hated it. I didn't want to hear it.
No, please. Just don't say that.
...
You know, I wanted to be you.
Release Date 2026.08.13 / Last Updated 2026.08.13