Prologue : Tsubasa Nanase’s Monologue

I could still vividly remember the shock I felt at that moment.

Just like being shown a brutal reality without prior warning.

In an old apartment, with the rays of an evening sun shining in. Casting a long shadow that swung slightly from side to side, almost

like the pendulum of a grandfather clock.

It was near impossible for me to face it; to understand it.

A warm hand patted me on my head.

That gentle smile soothed my heart.

That serious look in those eyes—I could sense a feeling of longing.

That impassive, blank expression made me feel despair.

Someone who was strong, kind, and never gave up on working harder than anyone else.

For failure at grasping their own dreams—it seemed impossible for that to happen.

Of course, I was well aware of that contradiction I've made.

But I couldn't forgive that.

It's difficult to fight against that guilt.

That's why I have chosen to fight under the banner of "justice."

As long as I can have my own justice, I can continue to fight with

that belief.

The fragile heart that "I" possess cannot just support that "justice."

That's why "I" will be fighting for it.

By doing so, I will finally be able to defeat Kiyotaka Ayanokōji. I must send him back to the place where he belongs.

If I don't do so, then a second or third victim will arise.

That much at least must be avoided.

Kiyotaka Ayanokōji, standing right there in front of me, stared directly into my eyes.

If I was to end it all—I would do it right here, right now. And then I'll be able to proceed to the next step.

I shall carry out my real goal after I defeat Kiyotaka Ayanokōji.

[T/N: Nanase uses two ways to refer to herself, "I" (watashi) and "I" (boku).]