Chapter 25
When Ryosaku entered the gymnasium, the first thing that caught his eye was the countless "crowds" of pipe chairs that lined the venue.
Many huge blue sheets were spread out on the floor, and above the stage, huge banners for the graduation ceremony were hung high.
"1982 Graduation Ceremony"
Ryosaku stared at the words, reliving his memories of the past year in his head.
...Of course, there are many precious memories with Mieko.
He looked blankly at the crowd of children gathering around, and was surprised at how different the scene was from the gymnasium he usually used for physical education classes.
He had been watching the "changes" in the venue during graduation ceremonies for many years, but he was struck by the huge gap between the scenery and the scenery from that memorable day...that Tanabata day. Ryosaku couldn't help but feel the "ruthlessness of the passage of time.''
And the harsh reality is that Mieko is not at this venue.
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
The rehearsal goes smoothly and everyone sings the school song.
Children in lower and middle grades sing loudly and happily. However, Ryosaku and other upper grade students are shy about singing in front of people and don't speak out loud.
The music teacher was irritated by their behavior and yelled at them.
"Fifth and sixth graders, speak louder! Sixth graders, your graduation ceremony is tomorrow!"
At the urging of their music teacher, they reluctantly begin to sing.
Then all the students sing over and over again until everyone can sing.
While Ryosaku sings, he is reminded of Mieko again.
...Eventually, the rehearsal is over and the children leave the venue one by one.
However, Ryosaku remained alone in the venue even after everyone had left the gymnasium, staring blankly at the gymnasium that had completely changed.
