Prologue: Hashimoto Masayoshi's Monologue

TO PUT IT simply, I have a deep mistrust of people.

I have a strong aversion to truly trusting others.

I never wholeheartedly trust others.

People betray easily.

Isn't that the case?

They beg us to trust them, assuring us it's safe, then betray us.

The more we trust, the greater the shock of betrayal.

Wouldn't you think it's better to betray before being betrayed?

It's better to live slyly and benefit, than to live honestly and struggle like an idiot.

That's my—"Hashimoto Masayoshi's"—policy.

Masayoshi…

Justice[1], right?

Every time I question myself, disgust for my own name wells up.

It seems like this feeling isn't an unusual occurrence nowadays.

Compared to those who despise their own names from the bottom of their hearts, my disgust is… somewhat cute.

I only detest the contrast between my name and my thoughts.

"Justice" and "Masayoshi" are unrelated.

I get it logically.

But still, anyone would associate a different personality with my name at first glance.

They judge a person's character on their own using their name.

Sorry, but I've given up on being a defender of justice.

I've made up my mind since joining this school.

I'll definitely graduate in Class A—I'll get back at those who betrayed me.

For that, I'll do anything dirty.

I'll knock anyone down.

I'll make everyone resent me.

Whether the opponent is Ryūen or Sakayanagi.

Or even Ayanokōji.

No matter who the opponent is, I won't change.

I act solely for myself.

───

[1]: Masayoshi's kanji can be interpreted as "justice"

(Illustrations)