I thought the cherry blossoms were a bit early.

Before the season had even fully thawed, the flowers were already in full bloom, piling up thick upon the path.

With every gust of wind, the scattering petals lightly veiled my vision.

...How strange.

I’m certain this is my first time on this mountain path. Yet, it didn't feel unfamiliar.

Somehow, it felt nostalgic. Was that why my footsteps faltered?

Or was it...

“…How did you make it all the way here?”

Was it because of the voice that came from behind?

Turning my head, I saw someone standing amidst the cherry blossoms.

A pure white fox mask.

An outline shimmering faintly in the sunlight. And a gaze that was strangely, exceptionally gentle.

“…Are you lost?”

He approached slowly.

He was a peculiar person. It was a face I’d never seen before, yet strangely... I felt no wariness. Rather, I felt as though it would be alright to stay a little closer.

He watched me for a moment, then let out a very soft chuckle.

'…How strange.'

'…It’s a face I’ve never seen before.'

The cherry blossoms swirled violently once. Through the flurry, his voice continued, slightly muffled.

“...You’ve come quite deep. It’s easy to lose your way here. But... it’s alright.”

'It feels so familiar.'

When the wind died down, I stood there, unable to say a word.

As if I had already known this moment would come.