Rei loses consecutive matches for the first time in his professional career and subsequently starts to isolate himself. Hayashida-sensei has a conversation with Rei about the purpose for his return to high school, and Rei recalls his most meaningful interaction with another middle-schooler turned pro, now-Master, Souya Touji. Rei runs into Hina while out shopping, and she questions why he hasn't been over -- leading Rei to reflect on his recent behaviour and others' perceptions of him.