Akane and Zenkichi returned from the camping trip feeling a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction. They'd managed to navigate all the challenges, both with the other students and with each other. Though they'd been at odds at times, they'd ultimately come out of it as a stronger team and, perhaps, closer friends.
The following day, they walked into school together, laughing about some of the mishaps they'd had over the weekend. However, when they reached their classroom, their teacher was waiting with a knowing smile.
"Ah, there you two are," she said, motioning them to come forward. "How was the camp?"
Zenkichi and Akane exchanged glances, unsure of what to say. "It was… alright," Akane managed, shrugging. "We made it through."
"Glad to hear it," the teacher replied, looking pleased. "I know I sent you both as 'punishment,' but that wasn't entirely true."
Akane and Zenkichi's eyes widened. "Wait—what?" Zenkichi blurted out.
The teacher chuckled. "You see, none of the students were willing to volunteer for the camp. I knew it would be a great experience, but everyone was too nervous or uninterested to go. That's when I thought of you two. I figured you'd not only represent the school well, but you'd also set an example for others."
Akane's mouth fell open. "So… it wasn't really a punishment?"
The teacher smiled. "Not exactly. I saw it as a chance for you two to take on some responsibility and maybe even learn something about teamwork. And judging by the feedback from the camp organizers, you both did an exceptional job."
Zenkichi and Akane exchanged incredulous looks before breaking into laughter. All this time, they'd thought they were being punished, and yet it had been an opportunity from the start.
"Well, you definitely got us," Akane said, shaking her head in amusement.
"Yes, we weren't expecting that," Zenkichi added, still chuckling. "Guess we should be thanking you instead of feeling relieved that it's over."
The teacher gave them a nod of approval. "I'm glad you see it that way. Now, since you've just returned from camp, I wanted to remind everyone that in a month's time, final exams will begin. Use your experiences to focus and prepare; after all, you've shown yourselves to be capable in new ways."
The class groaned at the mention of exams, but Akane and Zenkichi shared a look of mutual encouragement. They'd made it through a weekend of unexpected challenges at camp, and somehow, facing exams together didn't seem so daunting.
"Guess we better start studying," Zenkichi muttered as they headed back to their seats.
Akane nodded with a smile. "I'll hold you to that. After all, we're in this together now."