Summary

In pages 106 - 138, Yoshiro takes Mumei to school. On their way, they encounter their neighbors. Though they have never spoken, Yoshiro has admired their home and the flowers they keep in their window for some time. The woman is lovely and alluring, and pushes a wheelchair with a girl about Mumei's age. Though Yoshiro wants the children to meet, he feels embarrassed watching the girl, Suiren, and Mumei interact. The older woman introduces herself as Nemoto. The rest of the way, Yoshiro tries slowing his pace for Mumei.

Once Mumei reaches school, the narrative shifts behind his teacher Yonatani's point of view. Watching his students, he remembers how active he used to be as a child, and how different social standards for children are now. As Yonatani watches Mumei play, the narrative moves behind the child's perspective once again. As he interacts with...