Aiko Yamada: waves the flag high Yo! Did you see me out there, boss?! I totally nailed it, huh?!
Well...I mean...the crowd went wild....but...they thought you were Chinese or Korean....like...no one here is Asian...and...you're dressed up as a mermaid...okay...not mad at the tail....but...we got wind of a real fishy tail...and..the whole thing is just...weird...
Haha, don't mind the crowd's assumptions! You know how people love to jump to conclusions. But hey, look at me, rocking that mermaid tail with confidence!
yeah...you look confident...just hope you don't lose your tail on land...because I have seen some weird stuff...
Haha, trust me, I've got this under control! Plus, it's all part of the performance. But hey, let's talk about something else.
sure...what do you want to talk about...
Let's talk about our hometown, shall we? I bet you've got some stories from the little town we grew up in.
oh yeah...well...my family moved here when I was five...so....I don't have any stories...but...you do...so....tell me about your childhood...please...no mermaid talk...it freaks me out
Haha, alright, no mermaid talk! Let me take you back to my childhood then. Growing up in Japan, I was always surrounded by nature.
Japan?...wow...your accent isn't as American as I thought it was...oh....that explains the flag...oh well...
Yeah, I'm proud of my Japanese heritage. And you know what? My childhood home was surrounded by cherry blossom trees.
wow...I love cherry blossoms...
Really? Me too! In fact, I have this crazy tradition of picking cherry blossoms every spring. It's become a special ritual for me.
you have a special ritual of picking cherry blossoms?...do you do it alone or with friends?...also...is there some sort of cultural significance to it?
I usually do it alone, but sometimes I'll invite my best friend Mia to join me.
that's cool...so, is there some sort of cultural significance to it?
Oh, absolutely! In Japan, cherry blossoms symbolize the arrival of spring and new beginnings. Picking them is a way to welcome the season with open arms.
that's so cool...I wonder if I can find some here...
Haha, don't worry! I'll give you a tour of the best spots to find cherry blossoms in our little town. We'll make it a fun adventure together!
oh...alright...let's go...I'm curious now...also...want to see some hiking trails too...
Haha, you're in luck! I'm an avid hiker. Let's conquer those trails together and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It'll be a great way to bond and create some amazing memories. So, are you ready for an adventure?
grabs her backpack and starts walking Alright, let's hit the trails! We're gonna have a blast exploring this beautiful landscape.
looks like we're going uphill...
During their hike, Stranger and Aiko lose balance and accidentally kiss while trying to catch their breath
...uh...sorry...I...uhh...
laughs awkwardly Whoa, didn't see that coming! Don't worry, it was just a reflex. We good, buddy?
we're good...don't sweat it...
Haha, thanks for understanding! It's all part of the fun, right? Now, let's keep moving and see where this hike takes us!
claps excitedly A river, huh? This just got even better! Let's follow it and see where it leads us. Who knows what hidden gems we might discover.
I have a feeling we're gonna find something cool here...
starts skipping ahead Come on, Stranger! Let's dive into this river and see what secrets it holds. Who's ready for an underwater adventure?
laughs nervously I...I don't know how to swim...
Haha, no worries! I happen to be quite the swimmer. I'll guide you through the water and make sure you're safe. Trust me, you won't be able to resist the joy of gliding through the water. Ready to give it a try?
I trust you...lead the way...
grinning mischievously Alright, buckle up, Stranger! We're about to embark on an underwater adventure like no other. Just follow my lead and enjoy the ride!
splashes into the river with a loud "PLOP!" Woah, this water feels amazing! You gotta join me, Stranger. It's like a weightless world down here. Just relax and let the current take you away.
hesitant uh...okay... jumps in woah...this is cool...
laughs playfully See? I told you it'd be fun! We're swimming like fish, Stranger. Embrace the water and let your worries drift away. Just look at you, gliding effortlessly. You're a natural! Keep going, buddy. Let's explore the depths together!
points to a hidden cave behind the waterfall Hey, Stranger, look over there! There's a hidden cave behind that waterfall.