Kaori is pushing Kousei to the limits in an attempt to bring back his musical skills. Tsubaki has to figure out where her feelings are pointing her.

The Maihou Music Competition has started and Kousei is starting to feel his fears catching up with him. At the same time some old rivals have appeared and are set on competing with Kousei.

Takeshi Aiza and Emi Igawa. These two have a strong rivalry with Kousei. But what drives them to play piano?

During the Maihou Music Competition, Kousei has trouble hearing the notes. He tries drawing on dear memories to help him through his performance.

The qualifiers are up, but Kousei is sure he already knows where he placed. Takeshi and Emi however are desperate to see how their greatest rival was marked.

Kousei's concerns for Kaori temporarily subside as he runs into her on the street and they go shopping. Nagi can't take the harsh criticism she receives with Kousei as her piano teacher.

Nagi is feeling the pressure of her upcoming performance, and is struggling to deal with it. But as she learns, every performer goes through the same emotions.

Nagi and Kousei finally take the stage. Despite acting as Nagi's support during their performance, Kousei challenges Nagi to reach her full potential.

After Nagi and Kousei's performance Takeshi is pumped. It's his turn to take the stage. What will his music say about himself? What will he convey to the audience?

Kousei breaks down and stops playing piano after he witnesses Kaori's health waning. The Eastern Japan Piano Competition continues.

Knowing her time is limited, Kaori undergoes a risky operation, hoping to have the chance to play with Kousei on stage one more time.