Spring Courtyard Snow

Everyone says I am madly in love with the young general, even to the point that the guard by my side bears a striking resemblance to him—seven parts alike—just to ease the longing during the young general’s distant campaigns. Even the guard himself believes this to be true. Silent and loyal, he protects me with his life, even breaking his legs and losing his sight for my sake. Heartbroken, I gently touch his face, but he turns away in shame, thinking I mourn the ruin of his features, so similar to the young general’s. Yet who the true substitute is, only I know in my heart.