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The grand lecture hall of Tokyo University was packed to the brim as the opening ceremony for the new academic year was underway. As Japan's most prestigious institution, even the commencement ceremony attracted immense attention from across the country.
Students dressed in their academic gowns filled the rows alongside proud parents who had come to witness this momentous occasion. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation, reflecting the dreams and aspirations of those gathered. Every seat in the auditorium was occupied, leaving no space to spare.
Photographers hired by the university documented the entire event, capturing footage that could later be used for promotional material or archival purposes. Additionally, several online streamers—granted permission by the university—broadcast the ceremony live to a wider audience eager to catch a glimpse of Tokyo University's newest cohort.
"Good morning, everyone. I am Fujii, the president of Tokyo University. First and foremost, I would like to congratulate all the incoming freshmen on your acceptance into our esteemed institution. From today onward, you will officially become part of the Tokyo University family…"
President Fujii began his opening remarks with a warm welcome. In any other school, students might groan at the prospect of listening to a lengthy speech filled with platitudes. But here, things were different. Tokyo University wasn't just another school; it was the pinnacle of academic excellence in Japan, a dream shared by countless high school students nationwide. For many, sitting in this very auditorium and hearing the president speak marked the culmination of years of hard work.
As such, both the freshmen and their parents sat attentively, hanging onto every word. The students exuded pride and confidence, their faces glowing with self-assurance. They believed they had reached the apex of success, having earned their place among the elite.
However, not everyone shared their enthusiasm. Some upperclassmen tasked with organizing the ceremony couldn't help but roll their eyes at the sight of these overconfident newcomers.
"You know what I hate most? These freshmen," one junior muttered under his breath.
"Just look at them—so arrogant, acting like they're better than everyone else."
"They'll learn soon enough. Once they step foot into Tokyo University, they'll realize that being the star of their hometown means nothing here. Compared to the geniuses around them, they're just average."
"Yeah, it's always funny watching how quickly reality hits them. One day they think they're invincible, and the next, they're humbled by the sheer talent surrounding them."
A third-year student chuckled softly, shaking his head as he observed the scene before him.
"That's how we all started out, though, right? Remember when we first came here? We were just as cocky, refusing to admit anyone was better than us."
Another senior laughed in agreement. "True enough… Hey, isn't that Yotsuba Hanekawa from the Faculty of Political Science and International Relations? What's she doing helping out with the ceremony?"
"What do you mean 'what's she doing'? She's probably just lending a hand since she's an idol around here," someone replied dismissively.
At the mention of her name, whispers rippled through the crowd. Hanekawa Yotsuba, often referred to as Tokyo University's "Goddess," commanded admiration wherever she went. Yet, despite her beauty and charm, few dared approach her—or any woman attending Tokyo University, for that matter.
Women at Tokyo University were known for their independence and strength, qualities that made them formidable partners. Many men avoided pursuing relationships with them, fearing they wouldn't be able to handle such strong personalities. As a result, Tokyo University women were often labeled as "intimidating" in the dating market.
One senior sighed wistfully. "Let's face it—it's not about whether she's from Tokyo University or not. It's because none of us stand a chance with someone like Hanekawa."
Everyone fell silent, awkwardly acknowledging the truth behind his words. Beauty transcended alma maters, after all. Their reluctance to pursue Tokyo University women stemmed more from the scarcity of attractive candidates and the difficulty of winning them over.
After nearly fifteen minutes, President Fujii finally concluded his speech. His tone was measured, his pace deliberate, ensuring each word resonated with the audience. After delivering his prepared remarks, he announced, "Next, please welcome our freshman representative, Tōru Fujiwara, to deliver his address."
Applause erupted throughout the auditorium as Tōru Fujiwara stepped forward. Clad in his academic gown, he walked confidently toward the podium, drawing admiring glances from the crowd.
"Is that the freshman representative? Wow, look at him—he's handsome!"
"Heard he ranked first in the entrance exam too!"
"Not only did he top the exams, but he's also incredibly good-looking. How is that fair?"
"At least we don't have to worry about finding girlfriends in college. With competition like this, we'd end up single for sure."
The comments flew back and forth among the spectators, highlighting the stark contrast between Tokyo University men and women. While male students were highly sought-after, female students often faced skepticism due to societal perceptions.
When Tōru finally took his position at the podium, something unusual caught everyone's attention—he didn't bring a script. Was he planning to deliver his speech off the cuff?
Instantly, murmurs spread through the room. Delivering an impromptu speech was no small feat. Unlike reciting memorized lines, speaking extemporaneously required not only fluency but also the ability to engage the audience emotionally—a skill possessed only by seasoned orators.
Tōru stood tall, surveying the sea of people before him. To him, these individuals represented Japan's future leaders. Yet, in his eyes, they were insignificant—mere specks unworthy of even serving as stepping stones.
"This is an unfair world!"
Placing both hands firmly on the podium, Tōru addressed the crowd with unwavering conviction.
"You believe that by entering Tokyo University, you've become the chosen ones—the pride of Japan. You imagine that within these hallowed halls, fairness awaits you, where merit alone determines success. But let me tell you—you're wrong. Dead wrong. Entering university—Tokyo University, no less—is where true inequality begins!"
The lecture hall fell silent. No one expected such provocative words from the freshman representative. Intrigued, the audience leaned in, eager to hear what he would say next.
Especially the parents, who marveled at the boldness of his message. Unlike typical speeches filled with empty pleasantries, Tōru's words carried weight, tackling issues relevant to society.
"Life itself is inherently unfair!"
"Some are born male, others female—and society treats men and women differently. Men are expected to be strong while women are seen as weak. When conflicts arise, people automatically assume men should yield to women. Is that fair? No, it's not!"
"And then there are those born with silver spoons in their mouths. Their fathers are corporate executives; their grandfathers, government officials. On the day they're born, they already own Ferraris. Meanwhile, countless others may never even afford a toy model of one. Is that fair? Of course not!"
"And you…"
Tōru's voice rose passionately, his gestures animated and expressive, stirring emotions in the audience.
"You, too, are beneficiaries of this unfairness. You claim your admission to Tokyo University is the result of relentless effort. Yes, you worked hard—but so did countless others. Why didn't they make it here? Because you might simply possess higher intelligence or natural aptitude for academics. Those who lack such gifts can strive endlessly yet still fall short."
"Does that sound fair to you? No, it doesn't. It's merely luck—luck that favors you and denies others who pour their hearts into achieving similar goals."
Tōru gripped the podium tightly, his gaze sweeping across the auditorium. Silence reigned supreme as he declared:
"Here, you will encounter even greater injustice. Despite sharing the same title as Tokyo University graduates, grades lose significance. Your degree alone becomes sufficient. Upon graduation, you'll discover that no matter how excellent your performance, you'll lose out on key positions because someone else's connections outweigh your qualifications."
"Can this unfair world change? Absolutely. If I were ever elected Prime Minister of Japan, I'd ensure fairness prevails—fairness, fairness, and nothing but fairness!"
"But until then… Welcome to the 'Unfair World'!"
With those final words, Tōru spun around dramatically and strode off the stage without looking back.
For a brief moment, the auditorium remained eerily quiet. Then, like a tidal wave, reactions exploded. Gasps of astonishment mixed with thunderous applause. Chaos ensued as discussions erupted throughout the hall, turning the once-solemn venue into a cacophony resembling a bustling marketplace.
The freshmen, untouched by life's harsh realities, dismissed Tōru's words with youthful idealism. Believing themselves destined for greatness, they convinced themselves the world owed them fairness.
Parents, however, clapped fervently, recognizing the truth in Tōru's message. Attending Tokyo University granted a higher starting point, but compared to those born into privilege, even its graduates weren't immune to life's inequalities.
Most shocking of all was Tōru's closing remark about running for Prime Minister. Was he serious, or merely indulging in youthful ambition? His speech bore little resemblance to a typical freshman address—it felt more like a political campaign, reminiscent of certain figures on the global stage.
Regardless, Tōru's unconventional speech left an indelible mark on everyone present.
"In this age of entertainment, standing out requires boldness. And politics operates similarly," Tōru mused privately.
"Why do campaigns demand exorbitant funding and constant media exposure? Because voters rarely think deeply—they support familiar faces, those with greater visibility."
Nearby, Yotsuba Hanekawa watched Tōru descend from the stage, her expression intrigued.
"Hanekawa, what are you thinking?" asked Mikako, standing beside her.
"Nothing, really," Hanekawa replied with a faint smile.
In truth, she wondered how her younger sister, Yukino, might react to Tōru's words. Yukino would likely scoff, insisting that if the world is unfair, one must change it—not by seeking power but through personal action.
"Hey, Hanekawa, go talk to him now. Other clubs will swarm him soon," Mikako urged.
"I'm going," Hanekawa said, flashing a graceful smile as she strode confidently toward Tōru.
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