Part Five
story concept: LAREINE
photos by: Hideaki Imamoto
written by: Fuzuki Watanabe
translated by: Bronny
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The exact origins of the story of the Lake of Reminiscence are unknown. By saying "the heart of a forest", it is unclear as to the exact location, or whether the lake actually exists at all. There are no historical records of its existence; it appeared solely as a legend passed down orally and aurally.
However, regardless of where it is mentioned, this lake, lying within an immeasurably long space of time, with its eternally unchanging beauty, continues to endure; it continues to emit its sublime aura. Its magnificence was something beyond imagination; there were no words that would adequately describe it.
Jérémie had vaguely heard that much. However, Lillie - who from childhood had heard a far more detailed story, and who had continued to dream of the day she herself would visit it - Lillie's fantasies followed one after another.
Owing to the towering trees surrounding it, the Lake of Reminiscence was protected. The proudly blooming flowers, which bordered the lake, drifting in sweet perfume, were a symbol that the lake was indeed pure. The deep green leaves of the trees were reflected; and below the glimmering emerald surface of the lake, the endlessly serene water extolled the mysteries of life. However, regardless of the people who set out to peer at it, the bottom of the lake would never show itself to human eyes.
It was said that the lake was a sacred place left by the gods; that it was a sunken metropolis from ancient times; that it contained an eternally sleeping garden of flowers; however there was no one who actually knew for certain.
The light of the sun and moon shone mutually from the heavens, and even though there was no wind the air was moving; and it could be heard - a voice, like music......
It was this scene which truly opened Lillie's eyes. She took a breath, and inside herself, her spirit was also breathing.
Lillie tiptoed forward, and simultaneously the trees, the flowers, and the surface of the lake were all astir. Lillie, with pure white silk veiled about her, must have looked almost like an angel. The various beings around the Lake of Reminiscence appeared restless, but in a way that was like they were surging forth and conveying a greeting.
"Welcome. You've come a long way."