There's a bench over that way.

We can take a seat and eat there then.

Let's kick back while we eat cherry blossom mochi.

Thanks. Are these from Homura Bakery?

You bet! I dropped in on my way here.

I mean, Japanese sweets usually reflect the seasons. Perfect for a cherry blossom picnic, am I right?

They smell lovely. Actually, these smell more like cherry blossoms than the flowers in bloom. I wonder why.

You know, that's because they pickle the blossoms in salt.

The fragrance comes from a compound called coumarin. Salt curing just draws it out even more.

Coumarin, huh? That's kind of a cute name.

It's really impressive that you knew that.

Mehehe! That's because I'm in the life design course! I know a thing or two when it comes to cooking.

They look so pretty and tasty. Let's hurry up and dig in!

Yeah, we should. So…

Let's eat!

*Munch* Mm, it's delicious!

Buono! It's like a mouthful of cherry blossoms!

Yeah, it really tastes like spring.

That's Homura Bakery for you. The red bean paste is sooo good!

*Giggle* Yeah, it's pretty comforting.

So now that we've had a bit of a breather, it's about time we got down to business.

Riko, is there something that's on your mind?

Hm? Why do you ask?

It just looks like you do.

Yeah. At least that's the feeling I've been getting.

And you've been kind of spaced out all day.

If there's anything we can do to help then just say the word.

I mean, it might be a good idea to have them hear you out, Riko.

Thank you, everyone. You see…