SPECIAL CLASS: Classroom of the Elite

PROLOGUE: Two Opposite Paths

POV: Kiyotaka

I would like to ask you a question, perhaps a bit abruptly, but it's a subject that deserves reflection. We talk a lot about equality these days, don't we? But what does that really mean? Are people truly equal?

Let's consider the world around us. We often hear that everyone should have the same chances, the same rights. It's a beautiful ideal, but is it reality? Look closely. Each of us is different, with talents, weaknesses, unique stories. Doesn't that make the idea of absolute equality a bit... unrealistic?

Of course, in school, we're taught that everyone deserves the same respect, the same opportunities. But in practice, how does it work out? Each person faces different challenges. Some have advantages right from the start, others do not. Doesn't this naturally create inequalities?

I'm not saying that the idea of equality is bad. On the contrary, it's a noble goal. But perhaps it needs to be viewed in a different way. Rather than pretending everyone is the same, why not recognize and value our differences? After all, it's these differences that make each person unique, right?

As students, we're right in the midst of this period where these questions become important. Our choices, our paths, our ambitions... all of this is influenced by our environment, our experiences, our abilities. So, equality, maybe it's less about making everyone identical, and more about giving everyone a chance to realize their potential, in their own way.

It's something to think about, I believe. Equality is a complex concept. And maybe true equality is about understanding and accepting this complexity, instead of oversimplifying it...

...

The sun was shining high in the sky, illuminating the city with its warm rays. A day that would have been perfect for a walk or a picnic with friends... But no, it was the start of the school year in Japan, so the idea of a picnic or a walk, I can probably put that aside. Not that I really wanted to, anyway.

So here I am, waiting under this sun, surrounded by the usual city noises, the din of cars, people chatting... Waiting for the bus. Yes, that bus that is supposed to take me to where I'm supposed to go, to the Advanced Nurturing High School. A school apparently renowned for gathering Japan's elite. You're probably wondering how I got accepted into such an establishment. To be honest, I wonder too... I'm just an average individual, a teenager who doesn't like complications. But an opportunity like this, they say it shouldn't be turned down, right? Anyone would be excited in my place, it's natural! Imagine, suddenly receiving an official letter announcing your admission to the most prestigious school in the country... You'd surely be euphoric, right?

... Anyway, the reality is that I was accepted into this prestigious academy, and I was about to go there... Assuming the bus deigns to show up, of course.

I waited, hands in pockets, at the bus stop, indifferent to the other people waiting for the bus with me.

... ... ... ... ...

Suddenly, a voice rose next to me, slightly surprising me. It was a female voice addressing me... She seemed to have a question to ask, speaking to me with a respectful and polite tone.

Polite Girl: Um, sir, forgive me for this interruption... Could you spare a moment?

Hearing this voice, I turned my head to see who was speaking to me. It was a young girl, probably my age, of notable beauty. Her sparkling sky-blue hair was styled into two long braids, adorned with a small pink flower hat on the side. She wore the same uniform as me... Could she be a future classmate?