Rising through professional shogi's ranks brings Rei Kiriyama increasingly skilled opponents and mounting pressure. Now in his second year of high school, he must navigate tournaments, championships, and title matches alongside difficulties in his personal life. Even as his career advances, he continues to question why he plays.
Away from competition, Rei is gradually becoming less withdrawn through his connections at the shogi hall, his school club, and in the local community. His affectionate, family-like bond with Akari, Hinata, and Momo Kawamoto is an important part of that change. Getting closer to others helps him recognize the emotional burdens they carry, too. While tending to these relationships, Rei begins learning to lean on the people around him and offer support in return.
