The after-school bell had rung some time ago. The normally bustling academic building had grown deathly still, almost devoid of sound. The students' vitality had poured into other places—for instance, to the club building, specifically the Kendo club.
"Men!"
With a forceful shout, a bamboo sword, like a streak of brown lightning, swiftly struck a helmet. The powerful blow sent its recipient sprawling to the ground.
Aozawa exhaled sharply. "Next!"
He stepped back to his starting position.
At the entrance of the Kendo club, a girl with black hair that covered her ears sat formally in seiza, the traditional Japanese kneeling position. Her pale blue jacket puffed out, creating an eye-catching curve. Her hands were neatly folded on her lap, pressing down on her water-blue pleated skirt. Her posture wasn't the informal "duck sit" but a very proper, traditional kneeling style.
Hojo Shouko was waiting for Aozawa to finish his club activities.
