The young prince asks his mother if she remembers when he asked his uncle about his mother. She says that she does not, because her sister has died. The prince tells his mother that the empress has invited him to visit the garden. He tells her that he has been able to step outside of the palace for the very first time in a long time because of the blooming of the cherry trees. He says that he is able to read poetry by heart at this age. He invites his mother to join him in the garden, and she agrees. A few days later, the prince's third brother calls for him outside the palace, and he agrees to go with him.