Resilience in Yamaguchi

Stephen’s days in Tarumi settle into a steady rhythm as he continues to recover from

illness. The peaceful environment and Matsu’s quiet presence help him regain strength,

but letters from home keep reminding him of the unrest in his family and the tension caused

by the war. He feels caught between two worlds—his life in China marked by conflict,

and the calm simplicity of the Japanese village. Matsu remains a steady figure,

and Stephen becomes increasingly aware of how much Matsu cares for both the garden and the people

in his life. Matsu invites Stephen once again to travel with him to Yamaguchi, the leper village

hidden in the mountains. Stephen, now more comfortable with the trip, feels both nervous