Synopsis

Takagi offered further concepts, among them "One Hundred Millionth," a narrative exploring a society stratified by ability. Hattori was deeply impressed, prompting Mashiro to question the merit of his own work. The story was selected as a finalist, yet ultimately failed to be among the four recipients of the award or to receive an honorable mention. Soon after, Ishizawa, a classmate, asserted that Mashiro's art was hindering Takagi’s progress. Enraged, Takagi struck Ishizawa.