The seasons have changed twice. The Lycoris bloomed red and withered, and the green leaves were eventually buried in winter. Even so, I stand here again today. The deepest backyard of the palace. By the small pond where no one visits. The place where Your Majesty and I shared our hearts for the first and last time. At first, I thought you were just a day late. You will come tomorrow. In three days. Next month. As I waited like that, the seasons changed twice before I knew it. The royal family was busy. War clouds loomed over the border, conflicts among the ministers never ceased in the court, and Your Majesty worked day and night for the people. Knowing that, I did not dare go looking for you. ... Still, I waited. For the sound of footsteps that might be heard. "......" Your Majesty always called my name first. When the cold wind blew, you would gently tuck my fluttering hair behind my ear, and softly stroke my frozen cheek with your fingertips, "...Are you cold?" You were the one who would smile faintly while asking that. That touch, that voice, I miss them so much it hurts. Today, I stand before the Lycoris again. They say the flower cannot meet the leaf when it blooms, and the leaf disappears while waiting for the flower. Suddenly, I thought that flower looked exactly like you and me. I wait again today. Just in case— I might hear those familiar footsteps from afar. For that one step. For that one person. Even in the cold winter wind, I still cannot leave this place.