"We'll give them rice then!" Mei Xiang said, smiling happily.
Chen Cheng stood up, "That's it, let's go out for a walk."
The autumn in Gunma Prefecture has its own unique flavor. Leaves fall brightly colored, creating a patchwork that adorns the mountains with a golden coat.
The crisp air was tinged with a hint of farewell. Mei Xiang knew too that this was her last visit here with Chen Cheng before returning to their homeland.
Still, she tried not to let Chen Cheng see her thoughts, putting on a brave face as she looped her arm through his for a stroll down the country lane.
"Brother Cheng, look, the maple leaves over there are so red!"
Mei Xiang pointed to a fiery red maple forest on a distant hillside with an excited tone.
Following her gaze, Chen Cheng saw the forest ablaze with color, like a roaring flame that looked especially dazzling under the autumn sun.
"It's beautiful," he said sincerely, "Let's go take a closer look."
