Do Not Ask



The cold winter air drifted through the entrance exam room of Tomoiku High School.
Today was a special day for Haruto and Kanon.

⸻

“Feels different from usual,” Haruto muttered under his breath.

“Well, yeah. Until now it was all practice tests at school, but today is the real thing.”
Kanon took a deep breath as she calmly checked her notebook.

The high school they were aiming for used a unique system called pair examinations.
In this system, teamwork and mutual understanding between partners were evaluated.
Academic ability mattered, of course, but so did creativity, communication skills, and the results of collaborative work.

“But hey, we’ve always done everything as a pair. We’ll be fine today too.”
Haruto said confidently, and Kanon smiled.

“That’s your catchphrase, Haruto. But because you say things like that, I can keep doing my best.”

“H‑hey, don’t say stuff like that. You’re making me nervous.”
Haruto scratched his cheek, embarrassed.

⸻

The exam began.
The first theme was: “Design the education system of the future.”

“Education of the future, huh… that’s a fun topic,” Haruto said as he looked over the materials.

“But we don’t have much time. Let’s start throwing out ideas.”
Kanon gripped her pen, her expression serious.

Drawing on their past experiences, the two quickly began exchanging ideas.
Haruto suggested creating an environment where students could learn more independently,
and Kanon added concrete proposals using AI and VR to support that vision.

“So… what if classrooms were VR spaces, letting students experience history and culture from around the world firsthand?”

“That’s great! But I think we also need spaces where students can collaborate, not just rely on technology. Like adding project‑based assignments.”

During their presentation, their smooth teamwork and unique ideas were well‑received.
Seeing the judges nod along gave them a bit more confidence.

⸻

The next theme was “Approaches to social issues.”

“This one’s surprisingly broad,” Haruto said with a troubled look.

“Yeah. But this is where we shine. We just share our ideas and find the answer together.”

In the discussion, they talked naturally—just like they always did.
When Haruto brought up environmental issues, Kanon added context about the economic and social structures behind them.
When Kanon proposed specific solutions, Haruto refined them into more practical forms.

⸻

When the exam ended, the two walked out of the building, finally able to relax.

“It’s finally over.”

“Yeah. We don’t know what the results will be, but we gave it everything we had.”

“We really are best when we work as a pair.”

“Mm‑hmm. I’m sure we can overcome any challenge together from here on too.”



18. Kanon and Haruto and Pair high school entrance examination

Out With Old In With New

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