Nojima Shinji pondered for a moment before speaking up:
"Everyone, there exists a profession in this world where people work silently, without recognition. From the moment they step into their workplace each day, they are consumed by a relentless workload."
"Due to the nature of their job, their bodies are often marked with unknown fluids or carry unpleasant odors."
"From the moment they choose this career, things like stylish haircuts, well-defined muscles, fashionable outfits, and meticulous makeup become distant luxuries."
"Personal time? Forget about it."
"Night shifts, countless exams, endless research papers... even squeezing in an hour for exercise becomes a distant dream."
"Despite their grueling work, their salaries are often disappointing."
"And yet, this is a profession that commands immense respect and admiration from countless people."
"The Story Creation Tournament, The theme for the first round is—"
"Doctor!"
As Nojima Shinji unfurled the scroll before the participants, the two simple yet profoundly complex characters appeared before their eyes.
"Doctor?! Isn't this just the first elimination round? Why is the theme so difficult?!"
"Is it really that hard? Feels easier than 'Life' as a theme."
"Idiot! 'Life' is way easier! No matter how you approach it, you can tie it into anything! But with 'Doctor,' that means your protagonist has to be in the medical profession!"
"Damn it! I barely know anything about doctors!"
"I'm screwed. Totally screwed."
Amidst the commotion, Akifumi remained calm.
While the theme revolved around doctors, from a storytelling perspective, that didn't necessarily mean one had to be an expert in the field.
The essence of a compelling story lies in conflict and contradiction.
Of course, having in-depth knowledge would make the writing more fluid and immersive.
But even without it, a good story could still be crafted—as long as the conflicts and challenges were well-executed.
However…
"This theme isn't as simple as it seems."
Akifumi subconsciously recalled Nojima Shinji's opening speech.
If anyone dismissed it as mere filler, they were gravely mistaken.
On the surface, the theme required writing about the medical profession.
But at its core, it was about exploring the meaning of being a doctor.
Sure, writing an engaging story about a doctor would earn points.
But delving into the true essence of the profession? That would secure a high score!
A slight smile played on Akifumi's lips. "Looks like luck is on my side this time."
Because he just so happened to have a story related to doctors.
Even though CLANNAD had only been presented as a draft outline, it had allowed him to unlock new narrative ideas.
Originally, he thought the doctor theme was too niche to be useful.
Yet here it was, the perfect fit for the competition!
What incredible luck!
Without much time for discussion, Kanae smiled and spoke:
"Mr. Nojima has revealed the theme, and I'm sure you all have at least some ideas forming in your minds."
"Even if you don't, don't worry. You'll have plenty of time to research."
"For now, please move to your designated writing rooms!"
"The competition will officially begin in 10 minutes!"
As Kanae finished speaking, staff members stepped forward to guide the participants to their respective rooms.
For most writers, a quiet environment was essential for creativity.
With 128 participants, each with their own writing habits, placing them all in one room would be chaotic.
They might not even get 1,000 words down by the time the deadline hit.
"Room 13, huh?" Akifumi glanced at his number tag and chuckled. "Quite the lucky number."
In Japan, 13 was often considered unlucky.
But for him, being an unlucky number for others meant it was lucky for him!
Led by the staff, Akifumi entered Room 13.
The room wasn't large, about 20 square meters, but it was well-equipped.
Notebooks, pens, a tablet, a laptop, a small blackboard…
There were also various drinks and snacks.
Even cigarettes and alcohol were provided.
Seeing this, Akifumi couldn't help but raise an eyebrow. "Is the organizing committee trying to commit a crime?"
After all, the legal age for smoking and drinking in Japan was 20. (In this parallel world, according to the author's setting.)
If he were to partake, the provider would be the one in bigger trouble!
Of course, he had no interest in such things.
The organizers had likely included them for writers who relied on such habits during creative work.
Glancing at the room's cameras, Akifumi was momentarily curious:
"I wonder if these are already recording or if they'll start in 10 minutes?"
That curiosity lasted only a moment before he refocused on the competition.
"The competition starts in 10 minutes, but no one said I can't start researching now."
The room provided devices for research, though participants' phones had been confiscated earlier.
This measure prevented contestants from seeking outside assistance.
Using the provided tools was within the rules.
Contacting external sources was against them.
Akifumi powered on the device and typed into the search bar: "Categories of doctors."
Countless results appeared in an instant.
Scanning through them, he fell into deep thought.
Moments later, he picked up his pen and wrote two bold words in his notebook:
Forensic Doctor.
Then, right next to it, he scribbled:
7K.
Not referring to a salary of 7,000 yen, but rather the defining traits of forensic pathology:
Kiken (Dangerous), Kitanai (Dirty), Kitsui (Harsh), Kisei (Strict Regulations), Kyujitsu Nashi (No Holidays), Keshou Dekinai (No Makeup), Kekkon Dekinai (No Marriage).
All seven traits began with "K," hence the term "7K."
Akifumi's eyes glinted with determination.
A new story was already forming in his mind.