Ep. 13: Arata prepares for the third round while Inokuma becomes Queen's Challenger
Arata leaves to prepare for the third round as the second round of the Queen Challenger begins. Both competitors bring keepsakes representing support from loved ones. Inokuma wins by overcoming her fear of faults, becoming the Queen's Challenger. Chihaya spots Suou outside the karuta hall and joins him for a snack, hoping to understand his strength. The third match starts after Arata returns, wearing his grandfather's hakama. He remembers Chihaya saying Harada-sensei will always be a mentor and that he cannot win as just Arata. Arata controls the game using his grandfather's unconventional style. Harada-sensei struggles but is happy to play the Eternal Meijin again. His knees hurt until he sees Suou return with Chihaya. Suou expresses excitement about potentially playing against Harada-sensei in the Meijin match.
Episodes
- Ep. 9 · Suou departs while Chihaya focuses on her trip and Taichi faces elimination
- Ep. 10 · Arata Overcomes Distraction to Defeat Murao in West Meijin Qualifiers Final
- Ep. 11 · Chihaya and Inokuma prepare for challenges while Taichi memorizes placements
- Ep. 12 · Challenger playoffs commence as Harada defeats Arata, prompting Inokuma to overcome Megumu and Arata to receive a default win.
- Ep. 13 · Arata prepares for the third round while Inokuma becomes Queen's Challenger
- Ep. 14 · Kitano and Harada reflect on Harada's past while Arata loses to Harada and confesses to Chihaya.
- Ep. 15 · Chihaya struggles with Arata's confession while facing Suou's dominant karuta skills
- Ep. 16 · Taichi plays Suou without faults, Chihaya reveals weakness, and Arata watches the Meijin match online.
- Ep. 17 · Dew-Wet Sleeves and the Meijin Queen Match Start