Gathering

The courtyard was a peaceful refuge amidst the vast grounds filled with ominous, dark buildings. It was a familiar spot for the students as they often crossed it while moving between classroom buildings, training halls, and other facilities within the school, a place full of mysteries and secrets.

By the time I reached the courtyard with a bag full of ingredients for peperoncino, which I had just bought from the school store, the students of Eiyuu High School were already gathered there. Portable benches, reminiscent of bleachers from an American schoolyard, had been set up. The students were scattered about, chatting and relaxing in various spots.

When I looked at the classroom buildings flanking the courtyard, I noticed that many students, especially upperclassmen identified by their uniform colors, were choosing to participate in the gathering by watching from the windows.

With my shopping bag in hand, I quietly took a seat at one corner of the bench.