Ep. 14: Kitano and Harada reflect on Harada's past while Arata loses to Harada and confesses to Chihaya.
Kitano-sensei and Harada-sensei recall Harada becoming Meijin runner-up at age 26, though his medical career and lack of practice partners diminished his skills. Harada adapts by using strategies for weaker players, closing the gap against Arata. During their match, Harada falls and mishandles cards, but Arata ultimately loses by touching a dead card, a fault Harada avoids. Arata realizes he focused too much on remaining cards because they remind him of Chihaya. He confesses his feelings to Chihaya, announcing plans to attend college in Tokyo and play karuta with her again. Meanwhile, Taichi tells Suou not to approach Chihaya, falsely claiming to be her boyfriend. Suou contacts Shinobu to report the match results and warn her about her opponent's strength.
Episodes
- 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
- Ep. 18 · Shinobu reconciles with Chihaya while Suou faces Harada's tactical challenges