While the group believes the secrets are being submitted by different people, Tenji is revealed to be the author behind most of the damaging rumors. He strategically plants lies to drive a wedge between Shiho and Yutori Kokorogi , even framing others to maintain his "nice guy" facade.

Episode 4 of the anime , titled "Seriously? That's So Cringe," shifts focus heavily to Tenji Mikasa , revealing him as the primary antagonist of the first arc. This episode serves as a deep dive into Tenji's manipulative nature as he continues to sabotage his friends during "Bad-Mouth Sugoroku". Key Plot Points

The episode confirms that Tenji was the one who stole the school trip money and signed the group up for the game. His motivation is rooted in an obsessive desire to isolate Shiho Sawaragi from the rest of the group so she has no one but him to turn to.

Reviewers noted that this episode effectively transforms the show's tone by moving away from a group mystery to a "cat-and-mouse" psychological thriller. Tenji's behavior is frequently described by the community as "despicable" and "cringe-worthy" (fitting the episode title), particularly his extreme "nice guy" syndrome and stalker-like actions.

While Tenji believes he is in total control, Yuuichi Katagiri begins making subtle moves. Toward the end of the episode, Yuuichi pledges support to a devastated Yutori, though viewers familiar with the series know this likely signals the start of his own counter-manipulation. Critical Reception

Shiho receives a "special chance" card, which adds a new layer of risk and strategy to the game, though Tenji attempts to use this to further his own plans.

You can see Tenji's master manipulation and the group's growing distrust in these episode highlights and reviews: