M1nt 1nk

OH MY LORD

You know its actually a shame Ishimaru and Hinata are trapped in completely different games because they're actually really good foils for each other. They have the exact same mindset about society but Ishimaru's response is much more productive and self-empowering and hopeful. I'm actually surprised that Ishimaru seems to respect Hope's Peak as much as he does, considering his philosophy and how strongly he sticks to it. Perhaps it's less respect of Hope's Peak itself and more the fact that it is a school that he respects it. Ishimaru doesn't consider himself to have a talent. He got to where he did through hard work and effort (though it could be argued that the intensity in which he puts to his studies and his role is a talent in and of itself within the DR universe). Instead of wallowing in self pity like Hinata did, Ishimaru saw the status put upon him by society and said "fuck you! I'll show you what I can do!".

OMGG YESYESYESYES I had the same thoughts as well!! I kinda thought their characters were somewhat similar to Naegi and Komaeda, like Ishimaru but went down the wrong path and mindset. I'm torn on what their dynamic would be. Will Hinata develop some envy and/or admiration for Taka?? Cause if Taka got scouted he might have a chance.