), Chihaya Ayase and Taichi Mashima travel to Fukui to find Arata Wataya after learning he has quit competitive karuta.
: Arata's neighbor, Yu Ashino, explains the reason for his retirement: Arata's grandfather suffered a fatal relapse while Arata was away at a karuta tournament. The overwhelming guilt associated with the game made it impossible for him to play. ), Chihaya Ayase and Taichi Mashima travel to
: Following a phone call where Arata reveals he no longer plays, Chihaya and Taichi take a sentimental train ride to his hometown. Taichi views the trip as a potential date, but Chihaya is entirely focused on reaching Arata. : Following a phone call where Arata reveals
: The episode emphasizes the transience of time and the emotional weight of childhood promises. : Upon finding him, Arata is aggressive and
: Upon finding him, Arata is aggressive and dismissive, even throwing a bag of karuta cards into the mud. He explicitly states he is no longer the same boy they once knew.