Ayano has just started fitting in at the badminton club when Serigaya Kaoruko, ace at Konan High School, appears. Ayano is upset by her presence, and appears to have some past connection with her.

Danish player Connie singlehandedly dominates the Ayano-Riko pair. Riko notices that Ayano seems shaken by some meaningful words Connie said to her, and offers her own encouragement.