The Southern District of Veyrhold had rarely sounded so lively.
Laughter carried across the communal dining area, mingling with the clatter of wooden bowls, the scrape of benches against stone, and the occasional shout from someone demanding that their friend stop stealing food. Long makeshift tables occupied the cleared courtyard, while students who preferred a little more space had settled along low walls, building steps, and sheltered corners.
The evening meal was already well underway.
Thanks to the hunting party's successful return, the cooking team had prepared roasted venison alongside smaller portions of other game, vegetables, and what remained of the students' bread supplies. The food was simple, seasoned with whatever herbs and provisions they had managed to gather, but after an exhausting day of physical labor, even the less impressive portions were being received with extraordinary enthusiasm.
