Kiss and Flower

"All blossoms swayed; pink butterflies danced. Sparse shadows slanted across the path; hidden fragrance drifted on the air."

Xolotl withdrew from the solemn royal hall and stepped into the deep, broad rose garden behind the palace. His mood brightened in an instant, like a ship that had crossed through a storm and arrived at a peaceful, beautiful harbor.

It was early summer, and the roses were in full bloom, spreading out like vivid red-and-white carpets. Xolotl strolled through the rose garden of fragrant trees and blooming flowers, a faint floral scent curling around the tip of his nose. Hummingbirds and butterflies came following the fragrance, dancing gracefully among the flowering trees like spirits fallen into the mortal world.

"Yoh! Yoh!"

A burst of clear eagle cries rang out joyfully, drawing the young man's attention. He immediately quickened his steps, showing the agility of an elite warrior. He raced past the flowers, lightly leapt over the long grass, threaded through the lush pines and cypresses, and straight ahead saw a young girl like a cloud.

The girl wore white from head to toe, her long hair reaching her waist. She wore no powder or paint, yet her beauty was born of nature. Her face was stunningly lovely, pure and otherworldly, with a pair of clear bright eyes, those eyes holding moving autumn waters. At this moment, seeing the young man who had suddenly appeared, she widened her adorable eyes in surprise. Very quickly, a gentle smile lifted the corners of her mouth; she quietly clasped her hands behind her back and straightened her still-growing chest, like a lotus emerging from the water, and like a soft, beautiful cloud, swaying with grace in the evening breeze.

Xolotl stood frozen in place, staring at Alisa in a daze. He looked at the girl's