Games such as Go, Gomoku, Chess, Othello, and Shogi are classified as zero-sum, all-inclusive, two-player games where a player’s well-timed decisions, rather than coincidence or luck, determine the outcome.

Shogi, as a game, is incomplete.

It refers to children blessed by a higher power.

Children born with talent far exceeding that of the average person.

Better than most adults in their respective fields before they know the difference between right and left, they are adept and clever. Many people expect them to keep growing far beyond anyone’s reach when they become adults themselves.

Some simply mature faster than their peers. Others let their talent go to their heads and stop trying. The late bloomers catch up to them. Others still start families and become normal adults–––.

Also, the amount of talent they possess is irrelevant so long as they are human beings made of flesh and blood. Ability fades with age …… And new talent will take their place.

Thirty years ago …

A prodigy appeared in the Shogi world.

That boy learned how to play at the age of seven and became Elementary Meijin at the age of eleven.

A member of the Sub League by twelve, he became only the third junior high school professional player in history when he was fifteen.

He claimed his first title at nineteen and possessed all seven titles at once by the age of twenty-five.

And now …

That prodigy, currently in his mid-forties, is on the brink of accomplishing something that’s never been done before: achieving 100 combined seasons as a titleholder.

No lapses in ability.

The prodigy ascended to a level as yet unseen faster than anyone else. He amassed more experience than any of his contemporaries and maintained his position at the top by converting that experience into strength.

Most prodigies become normal people as they mature.

In that case.

What happens to the chosen few …… who don’t?

A quiet voice in my ear.

Ticklish like soft feathers, like the soft ringing of a crystal bell, a tingly and warm voice …… It’d be so nice if I could just keep listening to it just like this forever ……

“Master …… Are you awake?”

There’s a tug on the blanket and I open my eyes.

Looking in that direction …… My tiny apprentice is peeking over at me with a sad look on her face.

“…… Hm? What’s wrong?”

“I’m sorry. Were you sleeping?”

“Just resting my eyes.”

Stretching out under the sheet with a big yawn, I look outside the window.

Pitch black. All I see is my reflection in the glass. Looks like it’ll be a while before we get there.

My apprentice speaks up again and holds out a glass.

“Master. Here’s some cold water.”

“Ah, sankyu-.”

“Yuwa- uwerukamu!”

I pat my apprentice on the head as she uses some of the English she just learned. “Tee-hee♡,” she giggles happily.

Even in an airplane, my apprentice isn’t shy about making sure I have what I need. Adorabibble.

“…… Whew. It gets so dry in planes ……”

The cold water rolls down my throat. It wouldn’t stop after that first gulp.

We’re sitting in business class of a plane headed for the place where the first round of the Ryuo Title Match is set to take place.

Whenever players have to take a plane or the bullet train to go to a match, only players and observers ride in business class or the green car. Everyone else involved usually rides in the cheaper seats.

But it’s pretty lonely spending nine hours by myself and, honestly, I’ve got too much free time on my hands.

So I asked the organizers to let my live-in apprentice sit up here with me. That way it feels like I’m relaxing at home.

In no way did I do that because I have a Lolita complex or because I want to give grade school girls special treatment.

My challenger for the match, the Meijin, should be sitting around here somewhere. The organizers know to keep us separated so things don’t get awkward.

I pass the empty glass back to Ai and ask, “So? Something bothering you?”

“Um …… There’s something I can’t figure out no matter how hard I try ……”

“Like what? Because if it’s your math homework, go ask the journalist Ms. Mato, okay? She’s in college, you know.”

Having never gone to high school and since I only really thought about Shogi when I was still in school, even a fourth grader’s math homework can be a bit much for me.

It’s normal for pros to graduate from high school these days, and many of them go to college, too. Maybe I’m the odd one out.

On a side note, I wrote a paper called A Report on Move-Loss Bishop Exchange Reclining Silver for a summer project one year in elementary school. My teacher said that he “didn’t understand it very well” but the Shogi world loved it.

But, that isn’t important right now.

“It’s this right here ……”

With these words, Ai nervously holds out a book.

“This is …… the special edition for this year’s Ryuo Title Match. The one Shogi World magazine put out.”

They normally don’t do anything for run-of-the-mill title matches, but the hype for this one is on another level. So the magazine threw a bunch of pictures together and rushed a special edition out to the shelves. Although it says Ryuo Title Match, the Ryuo (me) isn’t in here anywhere. It’s all beautiful, glossy pictures of the Meijin looking all high and mighty in a kimono sitting on the other side of a Shogi board. If that weren’t enough–––.

“The Septuple Crown in Reach at Last!”

“Unprecedented! Will this be his 100th title season?!”

All spelled out in big bold letters.

“What is this, a Meijin fan book ……? Then again, Shogi books that have him on the cover sell a lot better than those that don’t.”

That’s why most Shogi World covers are photos of the Meijin.

Ai starts talking like she’s coming up with an excuse.

“Uh, um …… I thought it would be a good idea to learn about your opponent, Master ……”

“Ah, got’cha. Thanks for the help.”

In her own way, she was looking for any weaknesses the Ryuo Title Match challenger might have–––the Meijin. Or, in other words, she was researching my enemy.

I pat her smooth forehead and smile. My apprentice’s noble efforts are so endearing.

“And? Did you find out anything about him?”

“It’s this right here ……”

Ai then points to one of the Meijin’s many mysterious claims about Shogi–––a page dedicated to what we call Meijin-isms.

Her tiny finger is hovering over one of them.

“Yep. That’s why it’s called Pawn Drop Mate.”

Most of us in the Shogi world just call it Pawn Drop. It’s a rule most beginners have a hard time wrapping their heads around at first because it says that any player who does it loses the match.

“Why would the person who moves first always win if this rule wasn’t there?”

“Hmm …… Offense wins without Pawn Drop, yeah ……”

It’s one of the most mysterious Meijin-isms out there and also one that’s caused lots of people a ton of headaches trying to figure it out.

It goes without saying that I’ve argued with Big Sis about what it means many times–––.

“That’s a good question. I don’t think he meant anything by it though.”

“Uwhee?!”

Ai jumps up in surprise, leaning all the way over me.

“B-But, but! The Meijin held all seven titles at once and has eternal status and everything except Ryuo! He’s unbelievably good, right?! So why, why would someone like him ……?”

“Hmm …… He just … kinda felt like it? At the time?”

“Huuuh–?!”

Ai yells before slapping her hands over her mouth.

The lights are off inside the cabin and many people are asleep.

What’s more, the Meijin is definitely somewhere close by.

The real icing on the cake is that many members of the media who have no connection to Shogi are traveling along with us. There’s no telling what they’ll write if anyone hears strange noises.

The two of us lean close enough for our foreheads to brush against each other and we continue our conversation in hushed voices.

“Then …… The Meijin just made it up out of thin air?”

“Made it up, or it could be just a sense or a feeling. Either way, I think he just said what his gut was telling him. It’s not like there isn’t any reasoning behind it though.”

“What kind of reasoning?”

“It’s been said that the rule was put in place by someone with authority saying: common foot soldiers should never take the King! If that’s true, I can see how everything that goes into the Pawn Drop rule could sound strange.”

“So, it wasn’t a rule put in to make Shogi more interesting?”

“Nope. But that’s exactly why it seems weird.”

“What about Repetition Draw?”

“It’s bound to happen no matter what you do.”

A Repetition Draw, or sen-nichi te, is what happens when both players repeat the same moves.

Although the implications are different, comparing it to clutching in boxing might make it easy to understand.

Since the game would never end once a Repetition Draw starts, a rule was put in place to force it.

“There’s a lot of discussion about exactly how to end it, but the rule right now states that the players start over and switch offense and defense once the same move happens four times. People claiming that Repetition Draws are Shogi’s cancer say that the offensive player should lose on the spot.”

“The one who starts it is at a disadvantage, right?”

“The only reason they happen in the first place is because both players think the one who started it is at a disadvantage.”

“On the other hand, if the rules said that the offensive player loses then I think the defenders’ go-to strategy would always be forcing their opponent into it.”

Since conditions make it easy for Repetition Draws to happen in Move-Loss Bishop Exchange matches, a lot of people would start using it just like me …… Wait, offensive players would purposely block that strategy, so it would get wiped out, wouldn’t it?

“Well, whether they’re trying to do it or not, Repetition Draws are going to happen, so things might stay pretty much the same.”

“But the one who starts a Checkmate Repetition Draw loses on the fourth turn, right?”

“That’s another rule I don’t totally get.”

Switch offense and defense, then play another match for Repetition Draws.

However, if the Repetition Draw puts a King in check, the one who initiated it loses.

I have no idea why that rule exists.

“Oh, and speaking of rules ……”

“Let me guess: Two Pawns?”

That’s got to be the rule people break the most often.

But that makes it very easy to understand why that rule is there.

“I think preventing two Pawns from being in the same column balances out the fact that you can use captured pieces as your own.”

“There are a lot of good moves with Two Pawns, right?”

“Yep. If that move were okay, Pawns would become too strong and that would mess up the whole balancing system.”

“Does that mean that the Pawn Drop rule is there to make Pawns weaker?”

“Some people think that way–––.”

Maybe it’s the air pressure or maybe I’m just getting sleepy, but I take a deep breath to pump some more oxygen into my brain.

“The thing about Shogi is that the offense has the advantage if you think about it normally.”

“It’s easier to attack with the first move.”

“Exactly. In fact, their chance of winning is higher. Also, the one who attacks first usually takes the first Pawn, yes? Moving first means the offense has a faster route to check. Therefore, you can make a case that Pawn Drop Mate is actually a rule to limit the offender’s power.”

“Oh! I see!”

“Pawn Drop helps balance offense and defense. That could be what the Meijin was trying to say.”

Shogi, by nature, assures the offender’s victory.

Thanks to the Pawn Drop Mate rule, a balance of power between offense and defense can be maintained.

Therefore, without Pawn Drop Mate, offense is assured victory.

That could be the logic.

Since the Meijin never explained the reasoning behind this particular Meijin-ism, it’s a mystery ……

“Ah! If that’s true, then the Checkmate Repetition Draw rule also–––.”

“… Limits what the first person to force check can do …… Yeah, I can see that. Everything lines up.”

I think there’s a reasoning behind all the rules that makes us wonder why they exist.

Shogi is such a well-made game ……

As I was admiring the depth that is Shogi …

“…… Fwmm~,” Ai makes a funny noise and sprawls out on my lap like a cat. So cute.

“What? Is something else on your mind?”

“I understand that certain moves are against the rules to keep the game fair but …… In the end, does offense win? Or is defense the one that’ll win?”

“Well ……”

The Meijin said it: without Pawn Drop Mate, offense is assured victory.

And.

If that’s true–––.

As long as Pawn Drop is a rule …… How will Shogi end?

“If both players make the absolute best moves every turn, I’m not …… exactly sure how that match will turn out.”

“Even with a computer?”

“Yep. Computers don’t always make the best move, more like the most aggressive. When two computers face off, the Shogi becomes a shoving match. Right now, I think people are closer to solving Shogi than computers.”

The reason people lose to software is because computers don’t get tired or nervous and make mistakes.

And most Shogi matches are decided by who makes a mistake first.

“In matches between the top pros, like title matches with the Meijin, the offensive player tends to win more often than the average. That’s because they can compound the best moves in the late game without messing up.”

“So, the offense wins?”

“Not necessarily. I mean, it’s been proven that the defender has a big edge in Doubutsu Shogi. Statistics show that defenders using yagura are winning a lot more recently and, if you really dig deep, it might turn out that defenders have an advantage.”

“Does that mean the rules are going to change?”

“That’s possible. Specific rules about Repetition Draws and Deadlocks were changed not that long ago.”

That goes for Go, Chess, and Shogi too.

Rules are still changing now.

But–––.

“For me personally.”

“Yes?”

“I think the rule against Pawn Drops is a way to make Shogi puzzles more interesting.”

“Fwhee? Make Shogi puzzles …… more interesting?”

“Like the Final Judgment puzzle.”

“Final …… Judgment ……?”

Ai tilts her head at the unfamiliar words.

The subject changing to Shogi puzzles, one of her favorite things in the world, has her bright-eyed and bushy-tailed as she looks over at me.

I could just explain it to her but …… I don’t know if it’s the altitude or the Dramamine I took, but it’s really hard to concentrate.

There are still about …… three hours left until we arrive.

I bet we’ll be hitting the ground running once we get there, so I should try and catch some z’s while I can.

“Well, there’s no point in thinking about it too hard. There’s a rule against Pawn Drops, and no one knows if offense or defense will win out in the end. People and computers are still a long way from finding the answer …… That should be good enough, don’t you think?”

I pat my still-confused apprentice on the head, yawn, and close my eyes again.

I have to be ready for the tough battle waiting for me when I open them again–––.

The heat of the Hawaiian sun on my face after nine hours cooped up in a plane, I’m practically jumping for joy.

Yes–––Hawaii!

The island where it’s always summer–––Hawaii!!

A match hasn’t been held outside of Japan in a full five years and it’s the first match of this year’s Ryuo Title Match! In Hawaii!!

“So, Ai. What d’you think of these sunglasses? Nice, right? Right?”

“Ku-ru! Very cool, Master!! They’re perfect!!”

“Ha ha ha. Will the locals think I’m one of them?”

“Fwee~♪”

My apprentice tries to whistle like an American but fails miserably. Adorable.

Then, an ice-cold voice came down to rain on our parade.

“……Pathetic. We’re in Hawaii. Get over it.”

“B … Big Sis ……”

My younger “big” sister, the dual title holding Ginko Sora, also known as Naniwa’s Snow White, is glaring icicles at the two of us but–––.

“…… Even in Hawaii, you wear your school uniform?”

“I’m a Sub League member in junior high school, so why wouldn’t I? This isn’t a vacation.”

Big Sis, wearing her mostly black sailor-style school uniform, has a matching black parasol open above her head as if outright refusing to let the strong Hawaiian sun touch her skin.

Her almost mystical appearance is getting a lot of attention from the locals. People all around us are calling out things like “Whoa!” and “Fantastic!” She’s sticking out like a sore thumb.

“Sorry about all of us forcing our way onto your trip, Yaichi.”

Big Sis isn’t the only one. Actually, Keika and Master Kiyotaki came along for my match in Hawaii too.

Even worse, Master Kiyotaki has decked himself out with sunglasses, a polo shirt, Bermuda shorts, and plastic sandals. Since this is Hawaii, he just looks like a tourist, but he’d look like a really shady geezer wearing that getup in Osaka.

By the way, a Shogi magazine hired Big Sis to do commentary and paid her way over here.

Master, Keika and Ai all paid out-of-pocket (I paid for Ai though).

Originally, I was planning to come here by myself and have Ai stay at Master’s place. She was fine with it at first, at least until she found out Big Sis would also be here.

“I’m going, too, no matter what!”

With no idea what to do, I went to Master for advice and he said, “Might as well all go, eh?” One thing led to another, and now the whole Shogi family is on vacation …… I can’t really complain though.

Keika’s been a really big help since we started planning everything back in Japan. I don’t know the first thing about going abroad and she prepared a lot of things for me.

Even though she has her own important match coming up ……

“I really am sorry about all this, Yaichi. But I, I just wanted to come to Hawaii with you ……”

“Keika ……”

She was that worried about me ……?

Could this possibly be …… love ……?!

Just as that thought crossed my mind.

“You see, one of my friends who went to college? She went abroad with her boyfriend when the two of them graduated. She came back, gave me souvenirs and wouldn’t stop talking …… That’s right, Keika. You don’t have a boyfriend, do you? … Shogi is just a Japanese game, right? Then you’ll never get a chance to go overseas …… My my, you poor girl …… On an endless loop ……”

“………”

“But I …… I! Here I am in Hawaii, ha-ha-haaaaaa! In your face!!”

Keika’s broken.

“Ai! Ginko! We came all this way, so let’s go have some fun?! There’s plenty of money … locked and loaded!”

“Huh? K-Keika …… Ain’t that my credit card ya’re talkin’ about ……?”

“You’d just use it to put some cute clothes on 2-D girls anyway. In that case, make some real world purchases for your daughter, apprentice and granddaughter apprentice.”

“N-NooooOOOO! I was gonna get Miss Nitta’s SSR limited outfit with thaaaaaat!!”

Master’s broken, too.

“The Kiyotaki Shogi family is lively as always. I’m rather jealous.”

“Ch-Chairman ……”

A voice comes in from off to the side while I’ve got my head in my hands and look up to see the Japan Shogi Association’s chairman and Eternal Meijin status holder Seiichi Tsukimitsu 9-dan.

A man who has had many thrilling battles against my challenger for this Ryuo Title Match, the current Meijin. His name is all over the Shogi history books, a blind prodigy–––.

“…… You’re, wearing sunglasses?”

“This is Hawaii.”

“One selected them.”

The chairman’s secretary and (retired) Women’s League 1-dan Sasari Oga puffs out her chest with pride. On a side note, it’s a good thing the chairman can’t see because their clothes match. Of course, their sunglasses do, too. Looking at them, I doubt anyone who didn’t already know who they are would think their relationship was strictly professional.

Since the chairman is old enough to be her father, he looks like someone who’s having a fling behind his wife’s back …… Ms. Oga’d probably be happy if somebody made that mistake though.

“But, Chairman, Sir …… You’re, um, blind, right?”

“I can tell a slight difference between light and dark. Hawaii’s sunlight is quite strong,” the chairman answers with a smile.

I see ……

“Now, Chairman. This area is quite dangerous so keep a tight hold of one’s arm. The natives have been eyeing us for quite some time now, perhaps we’re being targeted. This is a foreign land, we must be alert for danger at all times.”

“Oh? Is that right?”

“Yes. This place doesn’t look safe in the slightest.”

Of course, it’s nice and peaceful here.

The chairman normally holds onto Ms. Oga’s shoulder to go from place to place. But all the sunlight seems to have gotten her excited because she’s clinging to his arm like a full body hug. Those sunglasses aren’t doing anything to hide the giddy look on her face. Little devil ……

A little ways away from the Kansai Shogi group, the always mild-mannered Meijin is standing in the middle of a throng of reporters with a cheery smile on his face.

All five of the Kiyotaki Shogi family members sit across from each other inside but there’s room for more. Ai, sitting next to me, looking back and forth between my face and out the window, seems like she’s having the time of her life.

“Master, Master! The sea and the sky are so blue!”

“Very much so. Hawaii is something else.”

“If only Ai came too! Then everyone’d be here!” Keika says.

“She’d never come to something like this. Knowing her.” Big Sis adds under her breath.

They’re talking about my second apprentice, Ai Yashajin. I invited her but ……, “Huuh? Why do I have to go?”

All I could say was, “Oh, okay ……” and let the subject drop.

But, I’ve got to say–––.

“Being an international match, don’t you think there are a lot of Kansai people around? The chairman, Ms. Oga, Master, Big Sis, Keika, and even Ai …… The observer is from Kanto, but the assistant observer and the match recorder are both from Kansai. Add in the fact that the journalist Ms. Mato is from Kansai and pretty much everyone in the arena for the match will be from around the Osaka area. Then again, you guys are here on vacation and bought your own tickets but ……”

Normally, title matches take place somewhere in Japan.

If it’s in the eastern half, then it’s mostly Kanto people and pros around the match. The same is true for Kansai pros with the matches that take place in the west.

Except this match isn’t in Japan. The personnel and schedule were all up to the media coverage and the association.

“I don’t think it’s all that strange that a lot of people connected to me are here because I’m the title holder. I kinda feel sorry for the Meijin, having to come all the way to Osaka to catch the plane ……”

“Soft,” Master and Big Sis snap right back at me.

“Title matches start by makin’ with the atmosphere. Matches lastin’ two days with a boatload o’ waitin’ time like this one get decided by who’s more relaxed and fights the best.”

Master has fought on the Meijin Title Match stage twice, so his words hit home.

“Movin’ pieces around ain’t the only battle to be fought durin’ title matches. All the travelin’ and the party the night before are part o’ it too. A ton o’ your opponent’s fans’ll be at the party and try thinkin’ what it’s like to have all the cameras in the arena trained on the guy across from ya. It’s hard to keep yar cool with all that tension in the air. Bein’ surrounded by friendly faces’ll help protect ya. Tactics, plain an’ simple.”

Master …… I thought he only came along to have a good time, but he was thinking that far ahead ……

Big Sis, with her multiple titles, chimes in. “That’s right. Why do you think we took time out of our busy schedules to join you on this trip? Stop taking in the sights and focus on the match.”

“……… Okay.”

Yes. The battle has already begun.

I’d been feeling like a tourist, but no more. Sitting up in my leather seat, I do a quick stretch and concentrate on how to deal with the strongest challenger ……!

But that renewed focus completely disappeared not ten minutes later.

“Ho-ly COOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!”

I step outside the limousine and take a look at where the match is going to be held: one of Hawaii’s five-star hotels.

Being top of the line, the hotel has its own private beach. Birds are flying freely in and out of an inner garden behind the front desk, which is right in front of the pool, and the white sandy beach is just behind that in front of the deep blue ocean.

How can I keep a cool head seeing all this at once? Not happening.

“Wah-HOOOOOO––––––––!!”

Master charges out toward the beach in his plastic sandals and yelling at the top of his lungs. I follow right behind him with Ai in tow. Keika mumbles some complaints under her breath and pulls Big Sis along with her after us. Then we all take a picture together in front of the ocean.

“All right, Kiyotaki family. Smile~.”

Ms. Mato works the camera like a total pro, taking pictures of all of us doing the shaka, Hawaii’s hang-loose hand sign. The association didn’t have enough money to assign a cameraman, so that duty fell to Ms. Mato along with maintaining the blog. She’s going to be busy.

“I would like a picture of the participants here on the beach. Oh, and since the match is in Hawaii, please wear Hawaiian shirts instead of suits.”

So the Meijin and I change into colorful aloha shirts and pose in front of Diamondhead Mountain doing the shaka and smile for the camera.

The distance opponents maintain during title matches varies case by case.

I’ve heard the mood can turn sour pretty quickly if the players don’t get along or have a history against each other, but the air can turn competitive even if the two are friends.

As for us …… Nothing special.

Since we’ve barely met, there’s no need to exchange words or shake hands, but he doesn’t feel like an enemy. The Meijin has been smiling the whole time too.

…… Could it be that since I’m so much younger it’s hard to flip the switch?

Here I am, standing next to a legendary player but I don’t feel any competitive fire. If anything, it’s more like a shrug.

“If the Ryuo group would please follow me down this hallway.”

Players in title matches talk with the media in joint sessions, but the organizers go to great lengths to make sure the two don’t cross paths anywhere else.

The hotel had it all planned out, sending my group and the Meijin’s group down different paths at different times.

Our rooms are so far apart that there’s no way we’d run into each other until the actual match starts. It’s a little detail, but very much appreciated.

“The chapel on the hotel grounds also hosts wedding ceremonies. It’s been very well received by our Japanese guests,” our guide explains as we pass by a small stone church facing the inner garden.

She then says that famous people often like to have a small ceremony with their family and close friends here before having the reception back in Japan.

Big Sis is making a face like Okay? And? But the rest of the girls look really excited all of a sudden.

Keika’s face is melting with glee as she says, “How …… wonderful♡. Getting married in a place like this, what could be better than that ……? ♡”

“Ah, why don’t we make a reservation–––?”

“A pike through your skull.”

“Darabuchi.”

…… What? Just joking. Well, about eighty percent serious, but still.

Right behind us, Ms. Oga is whispering into her boss’s ear, “Chairman~ …… One would love to get married here~♡,” with a quiet, enticing voice.

“Well then,” he responds. “I shall see what I can do to find a good match for you.”

“……”

Serves you right, Shadow Don. Heh-heh-heh.

We get into an elevator on the other side of the inner garden and then I part ways with everyone else because they’re staying on a different floor.

“This room is set aside for the Ryuo,” says my female guide in fluent Japanese as she explains all the features in the room. She almost looks Japanese too, maybe a second or third generation American?

I’ve got a double room even though I’m staying here by myself. She tells me it’s because the single rooms are more cramped.

“This room has the best ocean view in the entire hotel. Please, step out onto the terrace and see for yourself.”

A burst of blue light and a gentle breeze flow into the room the instant I open a large white window.

It’s all bright blue ocean.

Stepping outside, Diamondhead is off to the left. This room has the most Hawaiian view imaginable. So this is what ocean view means ……!

Coming to Hawaii was worth it just to see this! I sigh … beside myself.

“Haaa ……”

“Ohh, woooow!!”

An extremely familiar voice right beside me …… But one that shouldn’t be there. I jump half out of my skin and look down.

There’s my apprentice, holding onto the railing and leaning out over the terrace.

“Huh?! Ai, how long have you been here?”

“Hehehe♡”

She playfully sticks her tongue out before dashing back into the room like she was running away from me. Then she dives face first onto the bed.

Yeah. That was cute.

She doesn’t usually want this much attention. She must be really happy to be here in Hawaii.

Now that I think about it, she seemed pretty happy when we went to Kobe, too.

“Master, Master! The bed is so bouncy! And the bathtub is huge!”

“They sure are. This is a nice room, don’t you think?”

“So nice, Master! So, so nice!”

“Ha-ha-ha. You can stay in rooms like this once you have your own title!”

“…… I, I want to stay in this room, too,” (glance) she says with a pillow in her arms, looking up at me with just the top half of her face lifted off the bed. So darn cute!

How could anyone turn down a request from such a cute apprentice?

“You can use this room anytime I’m not around. I’ve got to do some interviews and meet some important people with the Meijin real soon, so I’m sure Keika and Big Sis will take you out somewhere. Probably shopping, yes? Tell Keika she can keep her shopping haul in here if she doesn’t have any room for all the bags as well.”

“…… Yay.”

That’s a strange reaction. Sounds happy, but not really. Huh? Did I make a wrong move somewhere?

The woman who led me up here hasn’t said anything, just watched with a happy smile on her face before asking, “Is she …… your younger sister, perhaps?”

“Huh? Ahh, something like that–––.”

“I’m not his little sister! I’m his live-in apprentice!”

The guide tilts her head at words that most Japanese people probably wouldn’t understand.

“Live-in …… apprentice?”

“Two people who live in the same place but aren’t connected by blood! Our bond is much stronger than that!”

“………………”

That smile disappears from the (female) guide’s face.

Oh crap, she’s got the wrong idea …… Wait a minute, isn’t America a heck of a lot stricter about pedophiles and that kind of stuff-ff-ff-ff?

“No! It’s not like that! She is my student, I teach her Shogi …… Suchu-dento! Aiam tei-cha-! Ai! Explain exactly how it is to her!!”

“Awa-ru-mu hazu onri-wanbeddo in jyapan!”

“Wha? Umm …… Ai? What did you just say …… Gahh?! She’s looking at me like a criminal over here?! Seriously, what did you say?!”

“You said to explain exactly how it is, Master. So I told her that our room only has one bed in Japan.”

“Why’d you have to tell her that?!”

I might not even get to play the match if rumors that Japan’s Dragon King brought a little girl into his hotel room start going around!

One slipup now and I’ll forfeit the match because I’ll be in jail …… Heck, I won’t be able to go home?!

“O-Oh, that’s right! Tip! I need to tip you ……?!”

The only option left is to get on her good side with some money!

I pull out my wallet, but Ai says in a calm voice.

“That’s okay, Master. She’s on the hotel staff. You only need to tip the housekeepers who change the sheets, the waiters in the cafeteria, and people like that.”

“That’s right! You’re so little but already so knowledgeable.”

The hotel staff member looks impressed by Ai’s unexpected familiarity with the system.

Overjoyed to find a new topic, I jump right in to keep it going.

“Actually, this girl grew up at a traditional Japanese inn with an onsen—a hot spring ……”

“Is that so? Which one?”

“In Ishikawa Prefecture …… Umm, it’s on the north coast, a place called Hinatsuru–––.”

“Are you serious?! T-the Hinatsuru?”

“You’ve heard of it?”

“Ofuko-su! Anyone in this industry who doesn’t know the Hinatsuru Inn still has much to learn.”

She nods at me like it’s common knowledge. Is that inn that famous?

“In that case, this young lady here …… is next in line to take over for that legendary Okami-san?”

The hotel staff member starts trembling as she says the Japanese word meaning female owner, okamisan, with an English accent.

So even people in Hawaii know who Ai’s mother is ……? I don’t stand a chance. She’s untouchable.

“I am Ai Hinatsuru. My pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Ai sits up on the bed, sitting on her ankles in perfect posture and bows down so gracefully it’s hard to believe she’s only a fourth grader. She’s the splitting image of her mother, which sends a cold chill down my spine.

Meanwhile, the staff member looks like she’s speaking to an angel from heaven. “If you have time, please come greet my manager ……!” she says, shaking Ai’s hand.

“This has gotta be the first time in Shogi history ‘at everyone was wearin’ Hawaiian shirts at the openin’ night party.”

“I agree. But it makes taking interesting pictures that much easier.”

The journalist in charge of the blog, Ms. Mato, and Master Kiyotaki are talking to each other. Master is already wearing the aloha gear he bought at a huge shopping mall. It’s not all that different from what he was wearing when we got here though ……

Since these colorful shirts are treated like uniforms in Hawaii, pretty much everyone here including the match participants is wearing them.

Actually, wearing suits around Waikiki makes you stick out in a bad way. Try thinking what it would be like wearing a suit instead of a bathrobe at a Japanese onsen. The Sub League member working as the match recorder and I went to a Shogi event hosted by a yacht club in Waikiki and decided to do a little shopping on our way home still wearing a suit and tie. Long story short, we got swarmed by local kids that kept asking us, “A-yu-mafia?! A-yu-mafia?!”

For that reason, the party is packed full of people in Hawaiian shirts.

Everyone’s gathered in the hotel’s inner garden. There’s a bonfire going, lighting up tables upon tables of delicious food all while ukulele music and the ocean waves mix in the background.

With VIPs like Hawaiian state officials and people from the Japanese consulate here, I’d normally be a nervous wreck. It’s thanks to all the Hawaiian shirts that I can relax. These things are amazing.

“I can scarcely believe two days have passed since our arrival in Hawaii and tomorrow marks the beginning of this season’s Ryuo Title Match. These two days have been filled with various Shogi events all around Hawaii. The Ryuo Title Match is of course garnering much attention from Japan, but, as the Shogi Association chairman, seeing local residents take part in the events and having genuine interest in Shogi has brought me great joy. At the same time, it has also reminded me of my duty to introduce the sport of Shogi to a wider audience.”

Chairman Tsukimitsu takes it upon himself to act as the party MC and makes a formal greeting up at the front.

On a side note, he’s wearing a kimono to keep the Hawaiians entertained. Mr. Tsukimitsu is a Kansai person through and through because I’m pretty sure only someone from Kansai would try this hard to make other people smile.

“This season’s Ryuo Title Match has great meaning not only for the participants, but for the Shogi world as a whole. More time has been set aside to accommodate the time difference for this match than title matches held on Japanese soil to ensure that the Ryuo and the Meijin can play at peak condition–––.”

The chairman was right in the middle of his speech when he came to a sudden halt because of a loud murmur in the back.

Ai, Big Sis and Keika showing up in Hawaiian dresses called muumuus is the reason why.

Looking like a long, loose dress, it’s a fashion staple for Hawaiian women.

Keika smiles at all the attention coming her way, blushing a bit.

“Ahaha …… Looks like we’re the belles of the ball. Right, Ginko?”

“……”

“These clothes …… This is a little embarrassing. I feel like I’m wearing a swimsuit (>_<)”

“Nothing to worry about! The two of you are so cute! We’re in Hawaii, so let’s live it up a bit and have some fun!”

Of course Keika is the center of attention.

That muumuu is bringing out curves that most Japanese women only dream about! I mean …… her boobs could break free at any moment!

As for Big Sis and Ai …… Well, it looks like they’re just wearing a fancy towel. They’re cute, I’m not denying that. Very cute, very cute. Smooth.

The three of them walking in brightened up the party like a bouquet of flowers.

“You three! Please stand together so I can take a picture for the blog! Look this way, please!”

Ms. Mato is taking pictures left and right.

Apparently, blog views skyrocket just by posting a picture of the most popular women’s title holder by far, Big Sis.

“To be blunt, they’re more effective than match photos,” is what she said, and that’s a bit depressing.

What’s worse is that the grade schooler who appeared like a comet over the Mynavi Women’s Open is also a hot topic among fans. “To be blunt, rather than pictures of the Ryuo (omitted).” Now that really is depressing.

That being said, getting a good picture of Big Sis is next to impossible.

“Women’s dual title. Please smile for the camera.”

“……,” (looking thoroughly dejected).

“Please, Sora-sensei. It’s a title holder’s responsibility to look friendly.”

“…… If you want pictures of a women’s title holder, there are better ones than me around. You know, the ones also smiling like pervs.”

“There are? I don’t see any.”

“……”

Once everyone had a chance to admire the beautiful women, it was time for the participants to give speeches.

As the Ryuo, I’m up first but …… I’m actually more anxious about this than the match.

On the surface, all I have to do is say whatever I want.

I can say anything …… But, just like Shogi, things like this have standards to follow and I’m sticking to them.

I mumble through everything before going up on stage, making sure I’ve got it down pat. “…… First, thank the organizers. Then the local coordinators as well. The hotel’s accommodation has been outstanding. Make sure to bring up the VIPs, it would be better to bring it up if they were involved in previous title matches ……”

Of course, there are forbidden moves too. I can’t talk about any other title matches or say anything good about our sponsor’s rival companies.

I was the challenger last time, so all I had to do was echo what the previous Ryuo had to say.

But I’m up first this time, so that strategy won’t work.

That’s why I’ve been researching how to do this kind of speech more than Shogi since I got to Hawaii two days ago.

–––I’ll prove to everyone I’m not nervous by delivering the perfect speech and put pressure on the Meijin right out of the gate at the opening party ……!

Now in front of the microphone, I’m ready to open my speech with the perfect line because I’m so ready!!

“Umm …… Everyone, aloha.”

Laughter explodes. Why ……?

I wasn’t trying to joke around or anything, but for some reason people laughed up a storm during my speech …… Well, better than silence!

Compared to my bright and aggressive style, the Meijin’s speech was normal and by the book.

The main points were: “I’m not thinking about the Eternal Septuple or the 100th title season at all … I’d like to further my research to find the truth behind Shogi with the Ryuo on this stage.” He wasn’t saying anything all that interesting, but the lights flashing around him are about 100 times brighter than they were for me. Those media guys aren’t here to cover the Ryuo Title Match, they’re more interested in the Meijin. I don’t care …… Really.

Now’s the time when participants receive a bouquet of flowers.

“…… the normal procedure, but we’ve decided to follow local tradition and present the players with a Hawaiian lei.”

Lei–––basically a necklace of flowers. What a spiffy idea.

The daughter of one of the guys from the Japanese consulate gave the Meijin one as Ai put a lei over my head.

“I have been informed that the lei being presented to the Ryuo was handmade by his apprentice. Those small hands strung the flowers together in hopes that her Master will emerge victorious. There’s no better gift than that.”

Stunned by what the chairman just said, I ask Ai, “Is that true?”

“Y-Yes …… Um, I’m sorry it doesn’t look as good as the others ……”

“What are you talking about?! This is awesome. I’d wear it to the match if they let me.”

“Master …… ♡♡♡”

Complimenting her lei makes Ai smile from ear to ear.

I was sure she was out sightseeing and shopping the whole time but …… To think she was busy making something like this for me. That kind of support is the best present ever.

I’d love to give her a big hug right here and now. I hold back the urge though.

But now there is a thorny chill in here that feels out of place in Hawaii. But come on, this is Hawaii. It’s got to be in my head because snow and ice don’t happen here.

Now then, players would normally leave the party at this point but–––.

“There is also an occasion to observe besides the Ryuo Title Match.”

The chairman pauses to build up a bit of suspense and then, “Ai Hinatsuru, the young lady who just presented the Ryuo with a lei, is celebrating her tenth birthday today!”

“Fwhee?! Whaaaat–––?!”

I was caught off guard just a moment ago, but now it’s Ai’s turn.

Everyone at the party, other than Ai herself, knew this was going to happen. The hotel’s ukulele ensemble starts singing happy birthday and the rest of us join in.

Ai’s face is a swirling mix of surprise, joy and embarrassment as she squeezes my Hawaiian shirt sleeve and looks at me with big, round, glistening eyes. That’s puppy-level cuteness right there♡.

“That’s not the only gift we have for you this evening.”

The cook in charge of tonight’s meal pushes a big cart into the garden once the chairman said that, bringing out the real star of the party.

Ai’s eyes light up.

“Shogi puzzle cake!”

Yes! Her favorite thing in the world, a Shogi puzzle, had been masterfully created in chocolate …… But, there’s more than that.

The cook made the board itself and the legs underneath out of cake! What is he, a wizard?!!

“Chocolate sponge cake coated with a layer of milk chocolate to re-create the wooden grain patterns …… The Shogi grid and writing on each piece are chocolate icing. Not bad ……”

Big Sis seems impressed and she hardly ever compliments anything. That might be jealousy in her eyes …… She’s not going to demand that I make this on her birthday, is she?

“Even got a piece stand …… Well, I’ll be.”

Just as Master said, there’s a piece stand made of chocolate off to the side complete with captured pieces lined up on top waiting to be played. Of course, they’re chocolate, too. Talk about mouthwatering!

The chairman, who made the Shogi puzzle on the cake, explains in a slightly matter-of-fact tone.

“What do you think? As you can see, the puzzle starts in the shape of a heart, but a new shape appears as the puzzle is solved. This particular puzzle requires many turns to complete, so–––.”

“Wooow! It starts off as a big heart but turns into a small heart at checkmate on the 27th turn! A rittaikyoku dume!”

“………”

Cut off in the middle of his explanation and the answer announced for everyone to hear, the chairman falls silent, stiff as a board with a smile on his face.

S-Sorry about that …… This girl, she’s a god when it comes to Shogi puzzles ……

By the way, a rittaikyoku dume is a Shogi puzzle that starts with all the pieces laid out to form a picture at the beginning and turns into a different picture by the end of it.

It goes without saying, but making these puzzles is extremely hard.

I’m sure that part of the reason the chairman put in this much effort was to help build up excitement for the Ryuo Title Match, but also to show that he has high hopes for the girl.

“…… Receiving a heart cake from the chairman …… Two hearts at that …… Even though she’s ten …… Even though she’s ten ……”

Ms. Oga’s heart is in rough shape.

Everyone at the party was happy to see a cute little girl getting a birthday cake at first but …… Now that they understand how amazing she really is, that happiness has turned into a frenzy.

“Damn girl!”

“That was fantastic!”

“She’s a genius ……!!”

The compliments keep coming.

Ai is now the life of the party. All these reporters and journalists crossed the ocean for a chance to see the Meijin, but now they’re asking to get pictures of my apprentice with her Shogi puzzle cake. It’s getting a bit loud in here actually.

The chairman has regained his composure and poses a question to Ai as she does the best she can to talk with the media swarm.

“If I may ask, Ms. Hinatsuru. Is there a present you would like from your Master for your birthday?”

“Fwhee?!”

Blindsided, Ai starts sputtering. So cute to watch.

“Um … Well.” It took her a few moments, but Ai builds up the courage to look straightforward and answer in a loud, clear voice. “Uhhh, I …… I want Master to win tomorrow’s match!!”

Applause erupt for the commendable apprentice who thought of her Master before herself.

The chairman tries not to laugh and says, “Well, there you have it, Ryuo. What’s your answer?”

“That’s a lot of pressure,” I answer with a grin.

But Ai turns blue in the face and yells, “S-S-S-SO-SORRY!! Forget I said–––.”

“What? So, it’s okay with you if I lose?”

“No, that’s not okay!! Win no matter wha- …… Oh no?! I said win again!”

Boom! The inner garden explodes with laughter. Ai’s face goes red as a hibiscus.

“You’ve certainly found an excellent apprentice, Ryou. Now you absolutely must not lose.”

“Very true. As you can see, the Masters aren’t as strict on apprentices as the apprentices are on their Masters in the Kiyotaki Shogi family. It’s tradition.”

My witty comeback to the chairman’s ribbing got the biggest laughs all night. Yessah!

“He ain’t kiddin’ ……,” Master mumbles with a bone-dry smile despite being in Hawaii. His credit card must be just as dried out.

Among all the smiling faces, only Ai, ”…… Master, you meanie,” she says, puffing out her bright red cheeks.

Too darn cute ……!

The Meijin listened to our very Kansai-esque banter with a cheerful smile on his face until it was finally time for the participants to leave the party and get ready for tomorrow’s match.

The match recorder takes a cloth from a wooden box and spreads it out on top of the floor mat before taking five Pawns from my side of the Shogi board and tosses them up a lot more dramatically than he needed to.

The five Pawns dance in the air, spinning–––land with dry, wooden clacks and bounce to all corners of the cloth.

“Five face up.”

The first move is mine. Sweat starts flowing out of my right palm even though my hand is just resting on top of my knee.

The match is happening in a spacious room that overlooks the inner garden on the second floor.

Since this hotel doesn’t have any tatami, they put mats down on the floor to make it look more Japanese-y. The board, pieces, floor cushions and armrests were all brought here by the Kansai Shogi Association.

Since past title matches have taken place in the grand halls of art museums and hotel observation decks, bringing them here wasn’t a big deal. We can hold matches pretty much anywhere.

“We didn’t need to set up a tower this time since that ceiling camera was installed. It’s so much easier,” one of the journalists in charge of covering the Ryuo Title Match for a magazine told me with a laugh in the hotel’s cafeteria this morning when I stopped in to say hello.

That same journalist is now leading a hotel executive to the board-side table.

Since that foreign executive can’t sit on his ankles, he looks very cramped sitting on his butt with his knees in the air between the observer and the chairman who are each wearing a kimono. It’s so surreal. I could swear the Meijin’s eyes are smiling behind his glasses.

Then, at 9 a.m. local time, we got started.

“The appointed time has arrived. Please begin the match,” announces the observer and everyone bows.

We players keep our heads down even as everyone else starts getting up. We’re giving the media a chance to take all the pictures they need.

Once all the shutter noises die down, I take a deep breath, reach for a Pawn in my formation and wait.

Feeling even more shutters and flashes go off than before, ”……!!”

Snap! I bring the piece down onto the board with a loud crack. Then I wait for all the pictures to finish up.

My opening move–––opening the Bishop Path with a 7 Six Pawn.

The reason I chose the most orthodox opening in the Shogi book is to prevent the Meijin from figuring out my strategy.

–––My strongest offensive strategy is the Double Wing Attack. Of course, the Meijin has prepared for it ……

Double Wing turns into chaos, so it would be better to use in the first match when I’m at full mental and physical strength. Trying to use it in a later match could be asking for trouble.

–––This isn’t just the first round in the Ryuo Title Match. It’s also my first time playing against the Meijin ……

Back as an amateur and even as a member of the Sub League, I never sat across the board from him.

There are some things that you just can’t get until you play an actual match. No amount of replaying Shogi records can compare to the real thing. At the very least, I want to gather as much information as I can during this match.

2nd move. The Meijin opens his own Bishop Path. He looks completely calm.

The way things are, it’s impossible to tell what strategies will come into play.

“At this time, would all media members please exit the arena.”

The journalists and reporters closest to the door leave the room once the observer makes the announcement and the rest file out behind them.

It’s customary for the media to leave after the second turn (basically, once they’ve had a chance to photograph each player’s first move) for title matches.

“……”

I stay sitting on my ankles, close my eyes and wait for the last one to leave. I already know what I’m going to do.

3rd move. I advance the Pawn in front of my Rook.

Another orthodox move, one that gives my opponent the right to choose the opening formation …… That’s how it looks, but I’m actually trying to bait him.

What I want–––is for the Meijin to choose Gokigen Central Rook.

The Meijin used Ranging Rook against Ayumu in the qualifier.

And I defeated the Meijin’s training partner, Jin Natagiri 8-dan, using Gokigen Central Rook.

In that match, I went against Extreme Rapid Battle, backed up by the Meijin and Mr. Natagiri’s joint research, and barely came out on top. Without a doubt, my opponent has thoroughly researched that match record and come to this conclusion.

Gokigen Central Rook is still viable as a strategy–––.

I’ve never played against the Meijin. However, we’ve fought indirectly through our training partners.

With all that information, I’m prepared to face his research head on.

–––Bring it!! Come at me with that Pawn right down the middle ……!!

Doing my best to keep my eyes off the board, I keep hoping that that’s exactly what’s going to happen.

The Meijin reaches for the board almost like my wish is coming true.

But his fingers didn’t take hold of the Pawn I wanted them to.

That’s not a Pawn–––heck, that’s not even his own piece.

“…… Really?”

Was that Ms. Mato? The Sub League match recorder?

Could’ve been me for all I know.

I’m not sure who, but I know someone accidentally let a word slip as soon as they saw what the Meijin decided to do.

He picks up my Bishop, places it on his piece stand, then picks up his own Bishop and promotes it before slapping it down with authority where mine had been!

Executing a Bishop Exchange on defense. In other words–––.

That information zips from my eyes into my brain and my whole body starts burning up seconds later.

The Meijin … is using my strat ……?

“…………”

I take a sip of ice water from my glass and chew on one of the cubes to cool off. Then I wipe my hand with a hand towel. If sweat was flowing out of my palms during the piece flip, it’s a torrent now.

–––What …… does this mean?

Is he trying to make it harder for me to use Move-Loss Bishop Exchange as a defender later on if I beat him on offense with the same strategy here?

Inconsistencies happen because he’ll use the same strategy on offense and defense.

I’m sure some player told me that.

But, on the other hand.

What if I beat his Move-Loss Bishop Exchange now …… and then beat him using it as a defender?

There’s a word for that in the Shogi world: Double slap.

“……………”

I glance out at the inner garden to calm myself down a bit. Then I take his Promoted Bishop and complete the Bishop Exchange.

This is Mato, reporting live from the board.

The morning skies are bright and clear in Hawaii. A gentle breeze is blowing through the arena.

The match, which began at 9 o’clock in the morning local time, has advanced to the twenty-seventh move at present: 10 o’clock.

Snacks were delivered to the players right at ten. The Ryuo enjoyed iced tea and pancakes while the Meijin only asked for a Hawaiian specialty: Kona coffee.

Chocolate-covered macadamia nuts and Honolulu cookies among other Hawaiian confections were available to the rest of us in the break room.

Shogi Association Chairman Seiichi Tsukimitsu, Kiyotaki 9-dan, Sora Dual Title and other skilled players gathered around an analysis board early this morning and have been vigorously exchanging opinions left and right since. This is quite an unusual sight for the first day of the two-day title match. The appearance of a completely unexpected strategy has opened up a psychological battlefield as well.

The Meijin’s Move-Loss Bishop Exchange currently dictates the board. A chorus of surprise and excitement wafted from the break room when the Meijin initiated the Bishop Exchange on the 4th move.

I had a chance to speak with Move-Loss Bishop Exchange specialist, Chairman Tsukimitsu, just moments ago.

“Honestly, no. If I may offer an excuse, I believe that every professional Shogi player who came to Hawaii was caught off guard, not just myself. Excluding the Meijin, of course.”

–––For what reason did the Meijin decide to use it against the Ryuo, a specialist with this strategy in his own right?

“The Meijin is known for defending against his opponent’s signature strategies and making them his own. It’s common knowledge that the Ryuo prefers to play Double Wing Attack on offense and Move-Loss Bishop Exchange when on defense, however the Double Wing option disappeared on his first move. That may be why the Meijin decided to proceed with a Move-Loss Bishop Exchange.”

–––At present, does Move-Loss Bishop Exchange favor offense or defense?

“Both are locked in a struggle for supremacy this year with a win-loss rate of fifty percent. However, the data pool is insufficient because it has appeared in so few matches. In the most recent example, a match between myself and the Ryuo in June, he claimed victory on defense. For that reason, he may have some reservations about playing it on offense …… This may not mean much coming from the defeated, but I had an opportunity to claim victory on offense. It’s still too early to know how this match will play out (laughs).”

–––Thank you for your time. I look forward to your analysis later in the match.

I also spoke with Kuzuryu-ryuo’s favored pupil and a live-in apprentice, Miss Ai Hinatsuru (Practice League Member, current Mynavi Finalist).

“Uwhee?! Pha, fwm …… (Chewing the last few bites of her cookie) …… Gulp. Umm, I went to his room to wake him up this morning, and I think he looked great. He always has a hard time waking up, but today he woke up right away ……”

–––You woke up the Ryuo? Are you saying you went into his room?

“Yes. Master left me in charge of his spare key …… E-hehe♡.”

–––He must trust you a great deal. What’s he like at home?

“Master is really nice and teaches me Shogi every day! But with the Ryuo Title Match coming up, he’s spent lots of time cooped up in his room recently. Even though he’s really busy, he always takes time to play Shogi with me every day! E-he–♡.”

–––I see. Then he’s been devoting extra time to his own research. Speaking of which, he was recently seen with Sora-sensei in Harajuku. Was that a practice session in Kanto as well?

“…… Huh? He …… He was ……?”

–––What? You didn’t know? Rumors have been circulating since pictures of Sora-sensei dressed for a date …… or perhaps a practice session were posted on the Internet …… Well then, it appears there are some things the Ryuo hides from his apprentice. It must’ve been a very secret practice session.

“Hmm …… Must’ve been …… Hmm ……”

–––Thank you very much.

Sora Dual Title is fifteen years old.

Miss Hinatsuru turned ten only yesterday.

The Hawaiian sky may be a bright, clear blue but there’s a foreboding sense that storms on and off the board have been building quickly since sunrise.

Day 1 of the match over and done with, I went back to my room after the dinner party but couldn’t turn my mind off. So, I decided to go for a walk on the beach by myself.

It’s past 10 o’clock at night.

The Meijin closed off Day 1 of the first Ryuo Title Match with a sealing move on the 50th turn.

“…… I’m in control of the board. I also have more waiting time left ……”

When matches are split into two days, it gets shut down at 6 o’clock. So, whichever player’s turn it is at the end of Day 1 writes their move down on a piece of paper and seals it in an envelope. The observer will open it and read the move to start Day Two.

That’s called a sealing move.

There’s a lot of discussion about whether the player who makes it or receives it has the advantage.

For me personally, I think the one who makes it has an edge.

“…… The player who makes it knows what move is coming next, so they have a whole night to think and plan ……”

The Meijin made the sealing move, but I got him to use a good amount of waiting time to claim it, so that works for me.

“I’ve got thirty more minutes than he does …… As long as I can maintain the lead, that time will be a huge asset in the late game ……,” I tell myself in a quiet whisper as I walk along the dark, sandy beach.

I would love to talk with somebody about how the match is shaping up, but it’s still going on. Since I’m not allowed to talk with anyone about Shogi, I’m talking to myself like this to keep my head on straight, alone.

“…… There’s no doubt his sealing move will be taking the Pawn I advanced to  2 Four. That’s for sure. I’ll choose to take it with the Rook. The problem is what the Meijin will do from there ……”

A sequence pops into my head and I follow it.

“  6 Five Pawn,  2 Three Bishop,  Take with Gold,  take with Rook, promote,  6 Six Pawn  3 Three Dragon …… If the  6 Seven Pawn promotes here, then  takes it with the Gold, into  6 Seven Bishop,  Gold retreats to 6 Eight,   4 Seven Bishop, promotes …… Maybe?”

But, I throw that sequence out right away.

“…… Yeah, there’s no way that’ll happen.”

If things played out just like that, I’d send my Bishop directly into enemy territory and sacrifice it to get a Promoted Rook, also called a Dragon and the strongest piece in Shogi. But I’d also be capturing the Meijin’s Gold and Knight and taking control of the sequence as well.

The Bishop is a big piece, but getting both the Gold and Knight for it makes it well worth the trade.

“If it’s for two, take the Pawn as well. …… as the saying goes. Yeesh, I’ve got to stop dreaming up sequences that go my way …… That’ll come back to bite me.”

I’ll have a commanding lead if it does go that way, but reality isn’t so nice.

“…… I mean, I’ve got an anaguma defense already in place, so it’s hard to see things going south.”

My defense can’t get any better than it already is. Even if taking those two pieces is greedy, as long as I can get that Dragon, the most powerful piece in Shogi, then I should be able to fight on equal footing.

“If it goes that far ……”

–––I might win.

Of course, I’m not going to say that out loud. Even just to myself.

But, I really–––.

“…… Huh?”

Hearing something different in the waves pulls my focus away from my mental Shogi board and toward the real ocean.

An unbelievable sight …… But, I’m sure it’s an angel.

I mean, there’s no way any human being could be this …… stunningly …… beautiful ……

“…… Yaichi?”

“Huh? Big …… Sis? Is that you ……?”

The angel turns out to be Big Sis.

She comes out of the water, silver hair dripping wet as she walks barefoot across the sand in my direction. All the water droplets in her silver hair sparkle like stars in the moonlight.

How could she be this beautiful ……? I ask myself, watching her. She then wraps her arms around herself, like she’s trying to hide her chest and says in a sharp voice, “…… Perv.”

“W-w-well, you’re in a swimsuit! Where am I supposed to look?!”

I make a counterargument and turn away to hide my burning red face.

“B-But …… What are you doing swimming at night?”

“I’d get sunburned during the day.”

“Ahh …… You would, wouldn’t you.”

Big Sis has been pale since she was born and extremely sensitive to sunlight.

Now that she’s grown up a bit, she can go outside during the day for a while. But even still, she needs that parasol …… Big Sis used to collapse after only a few minutes out in the sun back when she was little.

That’s why she got so good at Shogi.

It’s the only game that you can play indoors …… that can never be perfected no matter how much you play. She discovered it and got hooked. Then again, saying that all Ginko Sora had was Shogi might be more accurate.

It’s pretty jarring how thin her arms and legs look in the moonlight.

Just as I was following the moonbeams with my eyes, Big Sis says, “What are you doing out so late, Yaichi?”

“What? Oh, I, uh ……”

“Peeping?”

“No!!”

I can’t talk about Shogi, remember?! Give me a second to come up with something else!

Sand crunching beneath her feet, Big Sis walks over to one of the hotel’s outdoor showers and rinses off before grabbing a towel hanging from a nearby tree branch. She then wipes off her white skin and dries her hair.

Watching all this beneath the light blue moon is like seeing a fairy tale come to life ……

Big Sis looks at me as I’m getting caught up in the moment and says, “Doesn’t matter. I was just getting bored of swimming and was thinking about going for a walk around the city. Come with me.”

“At this time of night?”

“Because it’s night. It’s too hot in the afternoon and we’d stick out.”

Well, I wanted to go for a walk …… and wanted someone to talk to as well. I’m fine with going into the city but ……

“You’re not seriously going to walk around wearing that?”

“As if. I’ve got something to wear over it.”

“You do? Did you bring some clothes out here?”

“Yes. I just had something brought.”

“Come again?”

“Your jacket.”

“Mine?!”

So, you’re saying you want me to take off my jacket?! I’m in a title match, what if I catch a cold?!

Big Sis spins to the right and grabs hold of my hood before I can get away.

“Come on. I’ll wear it for you so off with the jacket.”

“But …… I just bought it and I’m only wearing a T-shirt under here. It’s a bit chilly–––.”

“Off.”

“Okay.”

The hierarchy system I’ve had shoved down my throat since I was a kid won’t let me refuse. I’ll probably be jerked around by this silver-haired devil disguised as a beautiful angel for the rest of my life ……

I reluctantly remove the jacket that I liked so much when I bought it. I protest with my face to let her know how much I hate what’s happening once I get it all the way off. That’s when a low kick comes flying in.

“I’m putting it on now. Turn the other way.”

She’s just putting it on, so I don’t see what the big deal is. Then again, she is acting a bit embarrassed.

I do what she says, dragging the leg that took the brunt of that kick behind me.

“…… Yeesh. If only you were just one thousandth as nice as you are cute ……”

Thinking she’d get angry at me for no reason if I stay too close, I start drifting toward the city and get back to thinking about Shogi.

The second match is in Osaka. I’ll have the home arena advantage.

–––Tomorrow, if I can win …… Then winning two in a row could actually happen ……!! A winning streak against the Meijin ……!!

I admire the city’s sparkling lights as my train of thought picks up speed–––.

Big Sis quietly says something behind me and pulls on my shirt.

“I wouldn’t go without you. I’m waiting right here.”

“…… Perv.”

“What, why?!”

No reason at all ……!

Now wearing my jacket, Big Sis holds out with her arms at me to show how much the sleeves dangle.

“Like a tent.”

“What’d you expect ……? Sure, I’m not all that tall, but any men’s jacket would be too big for you. Plus, I’m two years older, remember? You understand that, right? You forgot, didn’t you?”

B-But, I got to say …… Wearing a big jacket like that, yeah ……

I know she’s got a swimsuit on but …… It looks like she’s wearing nothing underneath. ……

“Perv.”

“H-h-h-how?! It’s not like that’s the hot outfit or anything!! Besides, you’re like a sister to me so it’s not like I want you that way!”

“I hate this jacket because you look at me like a piece of meat.”

“Then give it back.”

“No.”

The spoiled princess can say whatever she wants. I don’t get it at all ……

She must just be in the mood to mess with me.

For the first time since we arrived in Hawaii, Big Sis smiles so big it’s like her lips jump right out at me.

“Come on. Let’s go.”

With that, she takes my hand and starts walking.

Many shops are still open, and they’ve got tons of customers.

“…… Looks like that sanuki udon chain restaurant is the most popular one around ……”

“…… That’s kinda disappointing ……”

Watching all those white folks line up outside a Marukame Noodle Shop out of the corner of my eye, I start exploring the Hawaiian city at night with Big Sis and no real destination in mind. Walking around a foreign city at night alone would be scary, but for some reason, it’s kind of exciting with her.

We meander down one of the big streets until Big Sis stops in front of an ice cream shop.

“I want some.”

“This late? You’ll get fat.”

“It’s lunchtime in Japan.”

I don’t see how that’s relevant. But she says it anyway and then takes my wallet out of my jacket pocket and uses my money to buy ice cream like that’s naturally how it’s supposed to work.

We find a bench close by and take a seat. Big Sis looks extremely satisfied with that first bite. She gave me a little bit too …… Just a bit.

“Pretty good ice cream, don’t you think, Yaichi?”

“Pretty sweet, but yeah.”

Almost everything I’ve eaten since getting here has been sweet, but I think that ice cream might’ve just out-sweeted everything else.

I get up and go throw the cup away in the trash can.

Big Sis is still sitting on the bench when I get back. She holds her hand up toward me.

“…… Nm.”

“Ah …… Okay.”

I take that hand and help her to her feet like a princess getting out of her throne.

She loosens her grip as we start walking …… And, without really thinking, our fingers start interlocking.

Sort of like when you decide on a Shogi formation, you search for the right position in combination without saying a word …… and it falls into place.

In the deepest formation possible.

“…………”

Something in my gut tells me we shouldn’t be doing this, and my heart starts racing. The problem might be I’m still in the middle of the match. The Meijin’s sealing move is still in the envelope and here I am walking around the city at night, holding hands with a girl.

But …… This is Hawaii! I tell myself as an excuse and I remain hand-in-hand with a girl beautiful enough to turn heads everywhere we go in this foreign city.

It sounds like something out of some guy’s daydream, but it’s really happening. A soft zing goes through my chest every time I catch a glimpse of Big Sis’s profile.

We must’ve held hands thousands of times since I was a little kid ……

I set out into this vast world on my Shogi adventure with a tight grip on her hand, and that adventure is still going.

It didn’t matter how dark the cave or how vicious the beast, I could take on anything as long as Big Sis was with me. Nothing scared us when we were together, and I truly believed we could go anywhere.

But, when was it?

When did we let go and start going off on our own ……?

It’s almost midnight. I’ve got a big match to continue tomorrow, so I need to lie down and give my mind and body a break even if I can’t sleep.

I walk Big Sis back to her room and ask before she opens the door, “Please give me my jacket back.”

“No.”

“Say what ……?”

We’re back in the hotel, so what’s the problem ……? Having just bought that jacket, it really hurts to have it taken away so soon. Does she like wearing men’s clothes that much?

“Oh yeah, Big Sis. Who’re you rooming with?”

“No one. I offered to share a room because I’m in the Sub League, but I think I got special treatment because of my titles. Why do you ask?”

“Huh? No reason …… Ai said she’s sharing with Keika, so I was just wondering who would be staying with you.”

“……… Even now, at a time like this, you think about some grade school girl.”

“What? A time like this?”

“Idiot, idiot. Loli King.”

“I’m not like that?! How many times do I have to tell you?!”

“Where’s the proof?”

“Come again?”

“…… If you want me to believe you, prove it.”

With that, she presses her back up against the door and looks right at me–––.

Then leans her head back a bit and closes her eyes.

“……!!”

T-This is ……!

At first, I was sure she was teasing me. This is her go to pose whenever she wants to have a bit of fun at my expense, which is quite a bit.

But I figured out right away that something was different this time.

Even in this dark hallway in the hotel, I could see the nape of her neck turning red …… Her eyelashes quivering.

That’s how I could tell Big Sis was serious.

Because, I mean–––that’s exactly what happens to her when she is about make a decisive move in a match ……

“S-Stop teasing me! I’ve got a match tomorrow! I need sleep?!”

In the end, I refused to take Big Sis’s bait and avoided her move completely.

I turned away, pretending to be shy and a bit angry before leaving as fast as my legs could carry me.

I thought I heard a voice behind me as I was moving through the hall.

“…… Such an idiot.”

My heart was beating so hard when I got back to my room I wasn’t sleepy at all.

Is that because I feel like I’m going to win tomorrow? Is there another reason? I thought about it until I fell asleep, but still didn’t have an answer.

Day 2 of the match starts with the observer announcing the sealing move.

The Meijin did exactly what I expected, but there’s still a part of me that breathes a sigh of relief when the observer makes the announcement. That means I didn’t spend all that time thinking last night for nothing.

The match then starts going exactly how I predicted.

He must think he used too much time yesterday. The Meijin is keeping up the pace. Since I already read through everything that’s happening, I match him step for step.

–––I’ve got thirty minutes of waiting time over him. If I can keep this up until late game, I’ll be sitting pretty!

I kept playing with that thought in the back of my head but …… My hand stops in midair.

“……………… Isn’t this …………?”

I stare at the board in disbelief at what just showed up.

It’s exactly what popped into my head when I was out walking on the beach last night …… But it was so lopsided in my favor, I threw it out because I thought reality isn’t that nice. Well, here it is.

“…………?”

I sneak a glance at the Meijin.

The man sitting across the board from me is cleaning his glasses like he was relaxing at home. There’s no negativity, no stress at all. It’s not the kind of relaxed that comes from thinking things don’t look good, but oh well either.

“???”

I can’t tell what he’s thinking at all, so I look back down at the board and think through everything one more time.

–––Has he set a trap somewhere ……?

I check my formation for holes, but I’ve got an anaguma. It’s not exactly an impenetrable fortress, but I know my defenses are stronger at the very least. I don’t see any traps either.

All I need to do now is focus on how to attack.

I stopped thinking about the sequence when I got to this spot last night because I thought, in the unlikely event it actually showed up, victory was in the bag. If one hundred pros looked at the board as it is now, I’d bet that all one hundred would say it’s just a matter of time until I win. I’m that far ahead.

Think of it this way: I’d be the only one with face cards in my hand if we were playing poker. Not only that, I’ve got plenty of time to figure out my next move.

So I set to work to figure out exactly how I’m going to land the final blow–––.

–––––– ……………Huh?

The more I thought about it, the closer I lean in toward the board. I frown.

The reason.

–––There’s …… nowhere to attack?

That can’t be right.

Seriously, I’ve got a Dragon in his territory, I traded my Bishop for both his Gold and Knight and I’ve got full control of the sequence. With all these things going my way, I should be able to a cook up a devastating offensive.

But at the same time.

Even with all the best ingredients–––they’re useless if you don’t have anything to make.

“Hm ……?”

My eyebrows climbing up my forehead without realizing it, I lean even further over the board.

–––That hard? …… With all these great ingredients to work with? Seriously?

But the deeper I read, the more I realize it’s not just hard.

No matter what sequence I follow, I can’t find a single one that works in my favor. Not one.

So, basically ……

–––Could, I be …… in really bad shape ……?

To say I’m shocked would be putting it lightly.

Whoosh …… A cold chill runs down my spine but my head and face start burning up. It feels like I caught one heck of a cold and the stomach flu at the same time. My heart is pounding against my ribs so hard it hurts.

Careful to keep my voice steady between these thundering heartbeats, I turn to the recordkeeper and asked in a calm, quiet voice.

“Record, please ……”

“Here you are.”

Focusing hard enough to keep my hands steady, I take the papers from him.

I didn’t ask for it so I could see who made what move when. I remember all that clear as day.

There are numbers written down beside each move that I need to check–––waiting time usage.

“…………!!”

A scream near broke free the second I saw those digits.

Since Day 2 of the match started, the Meijin has only used seventeen minutes of waiting time.

That’s less than two minutes per move. Considering we had eight hours to start with, that’s almost nothing.

I was absolutely sure that the Meijin was thinking: oh well, and went with the sequence because he didn’t have a choice, certain that he thought he used too much time on Day 1 and had to make up for it.

But …… I was wrong.

The Meijin didn’t feel like he was losing.

“……… Oh no ……”

Words fell out of my mouth even though I thought it was locked up tight. The realization hit me so hard that my heart had to cry out somehow.

–––No way …… Has he read it?! …… all the, way through ……?!

“…………!!”

I give the sheets back to the recordkeeper.

But I couldn’t keep my hands from shaking anymore.

The papers aren’t all that thick, but I can hear them wobble.

“Pardon the interruption. I’m here to take lunch orders ……”

Someone from the hotel staff enters the room with menus in his hand.

Honestly, I couldn’t care less about lunch. Now’s not the time for eating. I’d have given up the whole break for more time to think.

……But, skipping lunch might show the Meijin how shaken I am right now ……

Nah, the fact that I’m thinking about that at all means he already knows. Even so, I’m trying to keep up the act. It’s the only defense I’ve got left.

I skim through the menu and point at something that I can just wolf down and be done with it.

“This …… The house club sandwich.”

Meanwhile, the Meijin didn’t order a thing.

–––He’s not eating lunch? Why not ……?

I’m so on edge that even his not ordering lunch sends my train of thought into a tailspin.

Skipping lunch is perfectly normal. He might’ve just overeaten at breakfast, or he might be the type that’s happy enough with the snacks served during the match between the breakfast and dinner provided during title matches.

It’s also possible that the food here in Hawaii didn’t agree with his stomach.

But I’m in such bad shape that I think–––Don’t tell me …… The match is as good as over?! Did I mess up that bad?!

Nothing else came to mind.

Your heart hurts when formations crumble.

And the match itself …… ends when your spirit breaks.

Including the lunch break, I thought as hard as I could for over two hours but couldn’t find a way back from the brink. The only thing I figured out during that time was that I’d been too naïve. The more I thought about it the more I felt that poison circulate and etch away at my fighting spirit.

I put a Pawn in enemy territory as soon as the match got started again, but it was just a bluff.

The Meijin keeps up the high pace he’s had since this morning. I knew it, he’s already read to the end.

“Ouch ……”

Seeing the Meijin’s Pawn plow through what I thought was a strong anaguma felt like watching someone else’s problem. I’m in no shape to keep up the fight, let alone find a way to come back from behind ……

I go on attack just for the hell of it, but the Meijin defends perfectly.

Then …… on the 92nd move ……

The Meijin deploys a Gold right next to my King and I bow my head.

“…… I lost.”

2:45 in the afternoon–––it’s over.

The Shogi match I thought I couldn’t lose at the end of Day 1 ended in failure before the afternoon snacks were brought out on Day 2.

The match recorder and cameraman were swallowed up by an avalanche of journalists at pretty much the same moment I threw in the towel. The observer tries to do crowd control, but nobody’s listening.

Shutters start clicking as soon as the media floods in, cameras at the ready as they jockey for the best position.

The best position–––basically, where they can get a good shot of the Meijin’s, the victor’s, face.

“………”

The two of us just stare down and don’t say a word. We don’t move a muscle. Can’t.

At this point, journalists working for newspapers and magazines have the right to ask questions first.

But, the players …… me, I’m so depressed that I’ve brought the room’s vibe down with me. Those journalists couldn’t say anything.

It was the chairman who broke the ice.

“…… Thinking about it logically–––.”

I have no idea when he sat down next to the board because he was real quiet about it, but he tells a room so crowded there’s nowhere to stand what my heart wants to say.

“…… Making an anaguma, completing a two-for-one trade, possessing a Dragon with control of the sequence …… would normally be very promising for a player with the first move ……”

He sounds genuinely surprised.

Even Chairman Tsukimitsu, a Move-Loss Bishop Exchange specialist to this day, didn’t think the match could turn south. Just like I didn’t.

“So then, you’re saying–––.”

A Shogi journalist finally speaks up and cautiously confirms what he heard.

“The Meijin’s Bishop deployment was magic?”

“Magic? What just occurred cannot be put in such simple terms.”

The chairman snaps back in an unusually harsh tone and says in a slightly fearful voice, “That …… was a miracle.”

“A magnificent start toward the Eternal Septuple title! Is a clean sweep in the making?!”

“The opening move is yours for the next match. Please tell us your thoughts!!”

“Meijin! A message for everyone in Japan waiting to witness history!!”

The room’s silent tranquility broke when I lowered my head.

Journalists and organizers rush through the hallway, their footsteps echoing.

A media avalanche, shutters going off.

And the Meijin’s voice constantly responding to a never-ending slew of questions.

Some questions were directed my way, to the loser. But for the life of me I can’t remember what they were or what I said.

The one thing I do remember …… is that strange sound, and the fact that it was always ringing in my ears.

The Meijin happily answered the mountain of questions thrown his way. I don’t know what got written down, but I do know he didn’t give them the flashy answers the reporters wanted. Just simple things like I’m not thinking about the record or I’ll be playing to deepen the understanding of Shogi in the next match. Blinding flashes went off whenever he moved one of the pieces, right along with all the digital pings and electronic clicks that go with them.

But this is a different noise, deeper, like an earthly shake that won’t stop.

The review session over, I went back to my room but the noise wouldn’t stop.

Thinking it could be thunder, I go to the window to look outside but it’s not raining. I don’t know when the sun went down, but the sky is full of countless twinkling stars just like when I was out walking with Big Sis.

But the noise I couldn’t hear last night is crystal clear right now.

–––What the heck is it?

I stare up at the night sky from the corner of the room, completely forgetting to take off my kimono, and try to figure out what the sound is.

Someone’s behind me.

“S-Sorry …… I knocked, but you never answered ……”

It’s Ai.

She apparently came to bring me down to the after-party because I never showed up. That’s right, I gave her my spare key. That must be how she got inside.

“Um …… Master? Please don’t be too hard on yourself.”

Forcing herself to sound cheerful, the young and lively apprentice tries to encourage her Master after his failure.

“It’s all right! It’s just one loss! All you have to do is take one match, and then you’ll–––,” she got that far before swallowing the rest of her words.

Because she saw my face when I turned around.

“Just one loss …… you say?”

I throw the shingen bukuro drawstring pouch I’d been clutching to the floor and yell at her at the top of my lungs.

“After seeing that match, how can you say that?!”

“Gasp ……!”

My apprentice, barely ten years old, looks terrified.

I’ve never seen her make that face before. I’m also pretty sure that she’s never seen me make this face either.

But I’m not stopping. These words aren’t going to be stopped.

“How can you be so peppy after seeing that Shogi?! Do you actually think this’ll stop at one loss?! If this were later in the series, I’d be totally screwed?! He just tore my Shogi sense out by the roots!!”

“Sho ……… Shogi …… sense ……?”

“It’d be fine if he found a move I didn’t read! I can fix that problem! All I’d have to do is read deeper!”

It’s possible to read more sequences by redistributing how much time I spend on each one. I can adjust right then and there.

But–––.

“I read that sequence perfectly and lost because he proved me wrong!”

I never thought that could ever happen.

The right sequence came to mind right away, but I rejected it.

It was the best move.

“What’s worse, against the strategy I’ve researched more than anyone …… he just destroyed every single thing I knew, the sense that I’ve worked so hard to build?! I’ve played tens of thousands of matches, but the Meijin just proved everything wrong with one!!”

In that moment, I finally figured out what the noise is.

It’s–––the world crashing down around me.

“There’s no time …… Should I go back and research everything about Move-Loss Bishop Exchange from square one? No! There’s no way to know if the Meijin would let me use it …… That means researching would be a waste of time ……! Damn it!! What the hell am I supposed to do?!”

Ignoring my trembling apprentice in the corner of the room, I collapse to the floor, biting my fingernails and mumbling to myself.

The Meijin took aim at my strongest point and sliced it down.

Without a sound.

Just broke it.

However, I canceled my seat and took the earliest flight back to Japan on my own. There wasn’t a second to spare.

The skies that were so open and blue when I came to Hawaii were now covered in thick, gray clouds. Rain came down as if trying to drive that point home.

The second match ended without any fireworks.

The match, held at a hotel in Osaka, took place only two weeks after the first one so I went in thinking this one was a lost cause, a throwaway match.

So losing didn’t hurt that much.

This is what I said during a post-match interview.

“I’ll have the first move next time, and I’m finally getting used to playing against the Meijin after two matches. I believe I’ll be able to play better Shogi in Tendou.”

Being in Osaka, lots of familiar faces were waiting for me in the break room, ready to do their own review sessions and break down all the turning points with me. Unfortunately, without any real fireworks during the match, there wasn’t much to talk about at all.

That doesn’t mean the after-party wasn’t fun.

The S&M novelist from Kobe, Dan Onizawa, is here. But, he just waves at me on his way over to talk with Big Sis and Ai for the first time in months and looks like he’s having the time of his life. Big Sis, on the other hand, looks like she’d rather be anywhere else ……

I also happen to run into the last person I expected to see.

“Kuzuryu-sensei, please allow me to thank you once again for looking after my granddaughter.”

“Ah …… It’s nice to see you again.”

Ai Yashajin’s grandfather.

With Akira standing just behind him, the man was very careful not to draw attention to himself and waited for the right timing to come up to me once I was by myself.

“I’m sorry, sir. You came all this way and I couldn’t give you a good match to watch ……”

“Not at all.”

The elderly gentleman slowly shakes his head from side to side.

“I may not know much about Shogi, but I know a thing or two about competition. The look in your eyes during the match, Kuzuryu-sensei, told me you’ve made an important discovery. I look forward to seeing how you use it in your upcoming matches.”

“Well, when you put it that way ……”

My heart feels lighter somehow. I take a look around the room and ask, “Is Ai with you today?”

“My lady is in her quarters, studying. Her match draws near.”

The match Akira is talking about is the Mynavi Finals.

Her match is on the same day as Ai Hinatsuru’s in Tokyo.

“…… I must apologize that I haven’t been able to work with your granddaughter much recently. I plan to accompany her to Tokyo on the day of the match.”

“Thank you very much, Kuzuryu-sensei.”

He takes my hand and starts tearing up.

“I beg you, please continue to be by my granddaughter’s side. I beg you ……”

This one is taking place in Tendou City, Yamagata Prefecture and I’m perfectly prepared on all fronts.

The city, said to be the birthplace of Shogi, is home to 60,000 people. It’s the only place in the world where people seem to eat, sleep and breathe Shogi.

Its Human Shogi event every spring is pretty famous, too.

Tendou Station is connected to their Shogi Museum. It goes without saying that there are detailed exhibits showing their traditional way to carve Shogi pieces, but they’ve also got extensive title match analysis on display.

The Ryuo Title Match is front and center. They’ve dubbed it the Match of the Century because the Meijin is on the verge of capturing the Eternal Septuple title and his 100th title season. Outside, there are posters and flags all over the town saying the same thing.

People here have caught Ryuo fever. Journalists and Shogi fans alike are there to greet us at the bottom of the station’s stairs and accompany us all the way to the arena.

Even the hotel hosting the match has gone the extra mile by renaming their designated Shogi arena, usually called the Taki no Ma, to the Ryuo no Ma.

–––All of this is getting me even more fired up for the match ……

Determined to win, I step into the Ryuo no Ma feeling like I own the place and vow to protect this space and my pride. Refusing to leave anything out on the board, I face the Meijin head-on, fighting him blow for blow.

The first and second matches both ended early in the afternoon on Day 2, but the third match is still neck-and-neck deep into the late game.

One-minute Shogi for both of us. It all comes down to this.

–––My King is safe ………… I can win!!

Finally adjusted to this pace after a long, long dead heat, I focus the last of my strength to find a sequence that puts the Meijin’s King in checkmate.

However–––.

A strange move comes flying in out of nowhere in a match where we’ve been going full speed for so long.

“Hm! Hnn?!”

Red flags fly in my gut and I pull my hand away from the board.

That bizarre move the Meijin put down …… It looks pointless, and yet there’s something ominous about it. It feels wrong.

Like spotting a stone in the middle of the road while barreling down the freeway. That kind of move.

–––What ……!? Am I in trouble ……?!

There’s no choice but to serve away from the path I set because staying the course right now with that stone in the road might send me into a tailspin. Press forward now and there’ll be no going back. I have to read this through, perfectly. But …… There isn’t enough time to do that.

–––I need more time! Three, no just two minutes ……!

A shameful thought crosses my mind.

Not a sequence, but I can get the time I’d kill for right now by initiating a certain situation on the board. That’s what popped into my head.

But, it’s a way that some people consider disgraceful.

An option I wouldn’t normally take, one that players get grilled for when they do. But.

–––I’ve got to avoid losing three in a row …… With time, I can win this! Then ……!

The line between my aesthetic standards and my will to win is blurring quite a bit.

The match recorder starts talking as I grappled with the dilemma.

“Fifty seconds. One, two, three, four–––.”

“…… Haaa!”

It was like my fingers took control and made the decision for me.

A Repetition Draw.

I can buy time by repeating the same moves.

Since Repetition Draw rules go into effect on the fourth move, that gives me three turns worth of time.

Also, if I use all fifty-nine seconds available to me on each of my turns, I can buy quite a bit of time. Now that it’s happening, there’s more than enough time on my side.

–––Enough to read my way to the end ……!

I sit all the way down on my cushion and read as fast as I can, waiting until the exact last moment to make my moves.

However, that’s when I realized I’d overlooked something extremely important.

And, once I saw it …… reading to the end wasn’t at the top of the list anymore.

“………… Gwah?!”

The move I’m repeating puts my opponent in check each time.

But, when check is involved, the player who initiated the Repetition Draw loses after the fourth turn if their opponent’s King is in check!

In other words, four turns of this and I lose.

I was so focused on finding a way to get his King that I forgot about one of the most basic rules. Panicking, I turn to the match recorder and say.

“How many was that?! Three?!”

“……”

“That was too close?!”

The match recorder has an uncomfortable look on his face but doesn’t say a word.

Of course he wouldn’t. That number of turns determines who wins and loses right now. Telling me anything would be the same as helping.

I should know that, and I probably would have realized it if I had a cooler head right now.

But in this nail biter, knowing that I’ve taken the shameful escape route by starting a Repetition Draw to buy time and come that close to losing …… I can’t think anymore.

“Khh ……!”

I break the Repetition Draw with my head still spinning. It was a horrible move.

I knew it as soon as I let go–––.

“……………!!”

It felt like all the blood got sucked out of my body with a crack.

Sweat streams down my spine …… and immediately soaks into my kimono, which in turn weighs down the fabric and chills me to the bone. It’s like I’m wearing a boat made of ice.

The Meijin lets out a long sigh.

A very, very disappointed sigh …… Hearing it is so embarrassing, I want to die right here and now.

As soon as he makes his next move, I bow my head.

“…… I lost.”

Setting the scene was impossible. The only thing this loss did was soil the match record. A failure in every sense of the word.

“Now that the Eternal Septuple title is within reach, what would you like to say to all your supporters across the country?!”

The media swarm, brandishing their IC recorders and microphones, descends on the Meijin like a pack of wolves competing for the first bite, or sound-bite in this case. They’re also fighting to get directly behind me for the best angle, cameras at the ready.

An army of journalists and reporters circle around behind the loser’s back after Shogi matches …

Because everyone wants a picture of the winner’s face.

All the loser can do during that time is stare at the floor and endure all the flashes going off behind their head.

The agony of defeat …… and proof of your own weakness get shoved down your throat every single second.

This time, with the Meijin’s Eternal Septuple title and 100th title season just one win away, it felt twice, maybe three times more intense than usual.

The Meijin is being really nice about it, saying things like It was a close battle to the very end and I’m more interested in pursuing Shogi theory rather than the title in the next match. …… That’s exactly why trying to escape into a Repetition Draw was so embarrassing.

Finally, the interview ends–––.

“Preparations for the evening meal have been completed. Please come to the dining hall at your leisure.”

Someone working for the hotel makes an announcement, but none of the journalists is paying attention. They’re all putting what the Meijin said down on paper or desperately trying to get a few more words out of him.

Not really up for a full review session, I talk with the Meijin about the final sequence for a couple of minutes before cleaning up the board as fast as I can.

Journalists are still asking questions and the Meijin is still answering them. Nobody needs me here. So I leave my opponent to it and stand up to leave on my own.

I was just about to take a step when.

“……!!”

Pull!!

It feels like something’s pulling on me from behind. Next thing I know, my face hits the tatami mat.

I fall face first onto the floor because someone stepped on the hem of my kimono. Wham!! …… Man, that was loud.

The arena is silent again for a moment.

For the first time, everyone’s looking at me–––.

Just as I get up on my hands and knees, I hear someone somewhere say.

“…… That hurt.”

Zing!

Anger and embarrassment come together with the pain of losing, bubbling over as everything explodes into a blaze of fury …… Tears start streaming out of my eyes.

“…………”

Unable to say anything, I practically run back to my own room. No one paid any attention to me at all.

I start packing to leave the instant I get back to my room.

I took way too much damage from this loss, but I’d like to secure as much time as I can to prepare for the next match. Even if I can’t win, it’s my duty as a player to put up a decent fight.

At least, I thought so at the time.

“…… Maybe I should go down there and show my face first.”

Big bag over my shoulder, I step out of my room and head toward the party.

All I have to do is say hello to a few people, that’s it. Just as I reach the entrance.

My feet won’t move.

“He took two elementary school girls as apprentices. One of them lives with him, right?”

“Maybe he thinks playing house will somehow result in playing better Shogi.”

“You know, the Meijin, good as he is, hasn’t taken a single apprentice yet because he’s so determined to perfect his Shogi skills. That Ryuo, he’s not good enough to actually teach people how to play.”

“Everyone singing his praises after taking the title probably went to his head. He’s still basically a kid, so I can’t really blame him.”

“Speaking of titles, Naniwa’s Snow White is shaping up pretty well to defend her title in the Women’s Throne Title Match for the third time in a row. How long do you think she can keep up the perfect streak? Then again, she’s a monster right up there like the Meijin.”

“That girl is marketable, very much so. There are rumors floating around that she’s dating Kuzuryu. I really hope she dumps him sooner rather than later.”

“Couldn’t agree more. Ginko should find a boyfriend who’ll make better headlines. Just imagine if she started going out with an actor.”

“Shogi has the Meijin, and he’ll make more than enough headlines on his own.”

“Don’t forget about Kuzuryu’s apprentices. With looks like theirs, the two of them will be household names in no time once they make their Women’s League debuts. Two ten-year-olds with enough talent to make it to the Mynavi Finals deserve to have a proper Master. That’ll be better for everyone involved.”

“However that works out, I just want the Meijin to hurry up and become the Eternal Septuple. That’s what everyone wants. Someone should just tell him to get out of the way.”

“Maybe he’s figured it out already? He’s lost three straight after all.”

“Ha-ha! Well then, he’s contributing to the Shogi world in his own way.”

Maybe I should’ve stepped in, defended myself.

Heck, it’s times like this that a competitor should say something.

…… But, it just wasn’t in me.

I’m weak, that’s the truth. It’s also true that I enjoy living with my apprentice.

He’s not actually good enough to teach people how to play.

Those words stabbed me right through my heart. They also hit the nail right on the head.

Why in the world did I ever take her on as an apprentice?

Am I more comfortable always having someone weaker than me around? What is she, my cute little pet?

I can’t deny any of those claims, there’s no way.

Rather than going into the party, I stay out of sight, sneak out of the hotel, and start walking toward Tendou Station.

It’s not far enough away to justify calling a taxi …… And I don’t want to hear whatever the driver might say when he sees my face.

“………… It’s freezing ……”

Tendou’s autumn evenings are cold enough to make the bottom fall out of a thermometer.

But what’s worse …… are all the Shogi decorations along the road. Each Ryuo Title Match poster I see feels like an icicle through the chest.

The only bullet trains still running stop in Sendai, but I don’t give it a second thought and buy one. Every moment in this Shogi-obsessed town is torture.

Walking onto the deserted platform–––someone took my picture.

It was Ms. Mato, the journalist.

“…… Even now, you take pictures? That’s cruel.”

“That’s my job.”

Lowering the camera, she takes a pen and notepad out of her coat pocket and says, “I became suspicious when you never showed up at the after-party, so I hailed a taxi and here I am.”

“You watch pretty close, don’t you?”

“Yes. I’ve always watched you.”

True, she’s been shadowing me ever since the first Ryuo Title Match. That’s the kind of devotion I’d usually admire but …… Right now it’s just a pain in the ass.

“So, why didn’t you come to the after-party?”

“It’s the loser’s job to fade away.”

“Would you please tell me the real reason? For me ……”

“…… I’m sure you already know without me spelling it out. Knowing you.”

Ms. Mato isn’t an enemy, I know that.

But, after hearing what those other journalists had to say ……

“Please write whatever you’d like.”

Boarding the bullet train like it was the last step in my great escape, I left Ms. Mato standing alone on the platform.

Going from a title match participant’s hotel suite to that filthy, narrow cubicle with a single chair was like moving from a castle into a pig pen. Sleep never came, so I spent the hours turning manga pages. I don’t remember anything I read, but at least I didn’t have to think about that Shogi loss for a little while.

Talk about pitiful.

My apprentice greets me just inside the front door with her usual peppy smile.

Of course, I’m sure she already knows I lost.

One more loss and my title is gone …… I know full well she is keeping up this happy act to make sure her Master who’s been forced into a do-or-die match will be as comfortable as possible. But, it just annoys me.

Maybe she can tell, because there’s a fearful quiver in her voice when she says, “Uh, um …… Dinner is ready and …… I drew a bath for you ……”

“…… ‘Kay.”

“The bed is made, too ……”

I drop my things off in my room without saying a word, trudge into the tub and then to the dining table.

Ai, probably sensing my mood, kept herself out of sight in the tatami room the whole time. She didn’t make a single sound.

Honestly, I was grateful for the space.

I don’t know why, but anything she does right now just pisses me off …… I guess it’d be more accurate to say I’m furious at this urge to intimidate someone weaker than my pathetic self just to feel like a man again. As long as I can’t see Ai, I can’t take out this frustration on her.

However, as soon as the clock struck 7 in the evening–––.

“Umm ………… Master? May I, have … a moment?”

“What?”

“……!”

Ai quivers just inside my doorway.

Like a terrified slave trying to judge their wicked Master’s mood, she tries to smile at first but then switches to making a more serious face ……

All of it’s getting on my nerves. But why? She’s such a cute apprentice.

“I, um …… Will go to the Mynavi Finals tomorrow in Tokyo …… So, uh …… A match ……,” Ai says, her body trembling the whole time and she suddenly blurts out. “I, I’m so sorry to disturb you when you’re tired! One match … please teach me Shogi!” she yells in one breath before collapsing into a deep bow.

“…… Fine.”

“! T-Thank you so much!!”

Ai bounces back up and looks up at me. That’s the first time I’ve seen her real face since I came home. Like a cute little puppy ……

“When you’re ready!”

Formations took shape right out of the gate.

Obviously, I’m not taking it easy on her today.

All I want to do is crush my opponent as quickly as possible.

“Ah! ………… Keh!!”

Under siege, Ai holds her ground and sets up to fight as long as her strength will last.

However, she’s so far behind that she’s got zero chance to come back.

Even if there’s a big difference in skill, the weaker player can hold out for a long time if they abandon offense and focus only on defending. That type of match takes forever to end.

“Khh ……… Haaa …… Haaa ……!”

Ai is holding out.

Just as I refuse to hold back anywhere near as much is I normally do and move in to crush her formation, Ai ignores the pressure and keeps protecting her King. Leaning over the board, looking at the utter despair makes her face twist and turn.

All of that irritates the hell out of me. I rudely snap down a piece, and then get angry at myself for acting like this …… It’s a vicious spiral.

I just want this match to be over and done.

This is just a waste of time.

––– …… I don’t have time to be doing this right now!

I slam down my next piece, trying to get the message across.

But, Ai didn’t get the hint. She’s only thinking about how to survive one more turn. That total obliviousness was the last straw. Fiery anger surges through my veins.

Once it reached the boiling point.

“…………!!”

At first, Ai had a what did you do that for? kind of look on her face as she looked up and down between the pieces scattered around the board and me.

But a few moments pass ……… and every ounce of blood drains from her skin. Shivering and blue in the face as if she’d been caught out in a blizzard, her body starts violently shaking as she screams, “P-Please forgive me!!”

Ai dives away from the board, going from sitting on her ankles to full-out prostration on the floor. She quivers and cowers for several minutes without budging.

“Ummm ………… I, need to use the bathroom ……… Sorry ……”

Keeping her head down, Ai practically runs down the hall toward the toilet.

Sob …… Sob …… I can hear her from here.

––– …… Why the hell …… did I, do that ……?

Self-loathing hits me like a tidal wave.

I can hardly believe myself. If only I could take it back.

I’m not trying to be super strict on her.

Because seriously, I didn’t have to mess up the board when words would’ve worked just fine.

Holding out against a pro or a member of the Women’s League when you know you have no chance of winning is not only rude to them, but rude to the fans as well. That’s why you need to throw in the towel when you know you’ve lost.

Yes, I should’ve taught her with words.

I want time to myself right now. So, I’m sorry but that’s all for today.

Yes, I should’ve told her the reason.

Why couldn’t I do that? …… Why did I get so angry at Ai? Why was taking out my frustration on her the only way to vent ……?

––– …… Because I’m backed into a corner, I guess.

That’s all I could come up with. In that case–––.

…… Staying like this …… Living together, too ……

It was a bizarre living situation from the start.

Live-in apprentices are a thing of the past, and I’d be in high school right now while living with a grade schooler. Of course a rumor or two is going to go around when two people our age are living under the same roof without any family connection.

–––Living with me will hurt Ai’s career ……

Once a decision is made, all that’s left is the follow-through.

I take out my smartphone and contact the people I need to talk to. Everything was settled with a few calls.

Ai comes out of the bathroom a few minutes later.

……… Please forgive … my rudeness ……”

Her eyes and nose are bright red. Tear trails over her cheeks are crystal-clear.

Seeing her so cute, innocent and vulnerable will make me have second thoughts …… I look away.

Stopping just short of the tatami room, Ai sits on her ankles in the hallway.

The deep green color of the tatami mats is a barrier between us, separating her from my world.

Staring at the Shogi board, I tell her.

“I’ve asked Akira to look after you tomorrow. Meet up with Ai Yashajin at Osaka Station and go onto Tokyo from there.”

“……”

Ai opens her mouth as if trying to say something, but no words come out. She’s just mouthing dry air.

Maybe she cried so hard she lost her voice.

Ignoring that, I tell her the rest.

“Then, once your match is over, go directly to Master Kiyotaki’s place. I’ve asked him to look after you until the title match is over. I’ll send your things along tomorrow.”

It may sound like a short-term deal … I understand that there’s a very real chance Ai will never come back here again.

I’m sure Ai can sense that.

That’s why she’s not trying to respond no matter how long I wait for her.

Silence is the only thing she can do to defend herself right now.

So, I press her for an answer to drive my point home.

“Is that clear?”

“…………………………………… Yes ……………”

Her response was short and so quiet it faded into thin air.

A pitiful man who became Ryuo by mistake and the girl who idolized him to the point that she had dreams of entering the Women’s League.

“What’s wrong with you? You were so gung ho during the Challenge Matches, remember?”

“…… Huh? Oh, yes ………… E-he-he ……”

Ai Yashajin, sitting in the seat next to her, tried to strike up a conversation, but Ai Hinatsuru only answered with an unconvincing smile.

“……?”

The dark-haired girl could tell something was amiss but chose not to pry. She didn’t even ask about Yaichi’s whereabouts even though he was supposed to be there with them.

Fourth floor of the Tokyo Shogi Association: Unkaku.

A long scroll with Mynavi Women’s Open painted in big letters hung in the alcove of an arena the two girls were setting foot in for the first time.

“Th-thank you for …… Huh?! Ai, what are you doing ……?!”

Ai Hinatsuru was in mid-bow, starting to greet the people already inside when she froze on the spot ….

Because she was shocked … that Ai Yashajin walked right into the room and sat down in an upper seat as if it had her name on it.

The Sub League member working as the match recorder was just as taken aback …… But the young Yashajin didn’t seem the least bit concerned as she looked down over Hatomori Shrine from a nearby window.

It wasn’t long before Ai Yashajin’s opponent, Karen Noboryou Sub League 2-kyu, entered the arena.

“…… I don’t see my seat.”

Karen, dressed in her high school uniform with the orange name tag that identified her as a Sub League Member pinned to her chest, stood in place with a knapsack over her shoulder.

Agitation permeated from her voice and body language.

Ai Yashajin stayed seated as she addressed her opponent.

“You’re ruining the view. Stop standing there and sit down already.”

“You’re in the Practice League, yes? And I’m older than you. Did no one tell you the higher-ranking player sits in the upper seat?”

“This is a Women’s Shogi Tournament, right? In that case, the leagues don’t mean anything. I just sat down because the seat was open …… But, I’ll let you have it if you want it that badly.”

“Not much of a taunt.”

Karen set her knapsack down on the floor and took a seat. Although she was wearing a smile, her anger came through loud and clear when she snatched and opened the piece box, the upper player’s responsibility, before Ai could reach it.

Although it got off to a rebellious start, pieces were lined up on Ai Yashajin and Karen’s board as they prepared for the match to begin.

On the other hand, the last person …… Ai Hinatsuru’s opponent …… had yet to arrive.

Just as the final minutes were ticking away, and the staff members were getting antsy–––.

Twp! Twp! Twp! Thunderous footsteps echoed through the halls, growing louder and louder until the sliding door was flung open with incredible force.

“…………”

The final participant took a quick glance around the arena. “Tsk!” She snapped her tongue loud enough for everyone to hear.

“…… Why do I of all people have to play an even match with a grade school brat ……?”

The woman drags her feet across the room, carrying only a fan clutched in her left hand, and plops herself down in the only remaining unoccupied upper seat.

“Two grade schoolers, and some high school chick in the Sub League …… Heh! Being trapped in here with all these kids is gonna make my Shogi suck.”

Although she herself was a high school student only last year, the competitive aura pulsing around her shut down any arguments before they could start.

Ryou Tsukiyomizaka, Women’s King.

Nicknamed the Aggressive Archangel, she was one of the best players the Women’s League had to offer.

Since she was the Mynavi Challenger last year, Ryou had been seeded through the Preliminary Matches and was favorited to win the whole tournament. She may have lost to the current Queen, Ginko Sora, in three consecutive title matches, but no one doubted her prowess.

Of course, Ai Hinatsuru knew how prestigious an opponent she was about to face.

She also knew that Ryou often came to the Kansai Shogi Association’s Player’s Room and was relatively close to her Master, Yaichi.

That’s why she thought––– …… Master will praise me for sure if I can beat her ……

Large eyes gleaming, Ai glared at her opponent with no reservations.

“…… And of course, the brat decides to stare me down before proving herself. She’s got that same look in her eyes the Kuzu does, the one that pisses me off.”

Starting to legitimately despise the elementary school girl staring at her without even saying hello, Ryou addressed the girl.

“Hey. Start linin’ up your pieces, got it?”

Flipping the piece box upside down, the individual pieces scattered across the board with soft wooden clacks. The Women’s King then started snapping them into position without aligning her breathing with her opponent. Not to be outdone, Ai slapped her own pieces onto the board with just as much vigor.

Ai Yashajin listened to the chaos unfolding beside her and thought–––She’s too eager to win …… This could be bad.

However, Ai Yashajin didn’t say anything. Defeating the Sub League member sitting across from her would require her full attention.

Ryou and Ai Hinatsuru’s pieces in place, the match recorder hastily executed a piece flip that resulted in Ai being awarded the first move.

Then–––.

“It’s now time to begin the matches. Please proceed.”

“When you’re ready.” Three voices overlap.

Ryou remained silent, glaring at her opponent.

Ai Hinatsuru took a deep breath to steady her nerves.

“Haaaa––– …… Nh!!”

Tensing her lips, Ai advanced the Pawn in front of her Rook.

Ryou answered with exactly the same move, advancing the Pawn in front of her own Rook, using almost no waiting time whatsoever. Seeing that, Ai advanced the same Pawn again without a second thought.

For the first time today, Ryou Tsukiyomizaka seemed interested in her opponent.

“A Double Wing, eh? Is the brat showing some spunk by starting a rumble? Or is this the Master’s monkey see monkey do?”

“…………”

“Fine by me. Don’t get much of a chance to go against Static Rook players like me in the Women’s League. Should be entertaining at least ……!”

With those words, Ryou advanced her own Pawn another space forward.

The two then collided, their pieces like the claws of two ferocious carnivores locked in a brawl, digging deeper and deeper into each other’s flesh–––.

“………………… I, lo …… st ……”

The one struggling to squeeze out an admission of defeat–––was Ai Hinatsuru.

Total defeat.

She was unable to stand her ground, let alone put up a fight. It was that kind of match.

Ai had rushed forward with her King still sitting in the starting position with nothing for defense.

By the same token, Ryou left her King sitting as well and decided to meet the advance head on. Backing down from an Aerial Battle, one of her specialties, against an elementary school girl was simply not an option, so almost all of her moves were made in less than ten seconds.

Ai fought back with speed, matching her pace.

It became a game of chicken, seeing who would flinch first in this high-speed duel …… But Ai’s hand began hovering over the board and she was overpowered.

Reading speed and depth are Ai’s strengths.

She has won hard-fought matches against opponents who win with experience by processing an overwhelming amount of information.

While she’d never say it out loud, Ai had a great deal of confidence in her abilities. She could keep up with Yaichi when the two of them did Shogi puzzles together, typically arriving at the correct answer at his speed or faster.

–––I can beat anyone when it comes to reading speed and accuracy!

Ai was certain of it, though she’d never say so.

All competitors firmly believe that they are the best. If not, they wouldn’t trust what they read and would always lose.

However, Ryou deviated from the sequences Ai was reading many times during the match … At the turn of a hat.

And once Ai read a new sequence, she was awestruck.

–––This one …… is better than the one I followed?!

She’d never experienced that feeling before ……

“Having a hard time believin’ your eyes, huh? Never been out-read by another woman?” Ai looked up from the board with a start. Ryou hit the nail right on the head.

“Your readin’ is too shallow. You look into all the options that pop up and end up wastin’ time. You read a lot, sure, but most of it’s garbage.”

“……”

“People tend to trip up when their opponent plays somethin’ they never expected. You might have won like that up until now, but it won’t work on me. Want to know why? Because I cut out all the worthless sequences and only follow the best. Any idea why I can do that?”

Ryou bears her pointy teeth as Ai listens without saying a word.

“’Cause I’ve got sense. That little thing called Shogi talent.”

Ai wasn’t the only one.

Every player who has ever lost against Ryou Tsukiyomizaka in this fashion became painfully aware of a talent gap separating them.

Blown away by Ryou’s pure speed and faced with a wall of talent that could never be cleared, many of them quit Shogi altogether.

The difference between those born with wings and those born without becomes painfully obvious when big pieces collide in mesmerizing Aerial Battles. That’s how Ryou became known as an angel.

An angel that ends lives.

An angel of death. Simply put: the Grim Reaper.

That’s the Aggressive Archangel–––Ryou Tsukiyomizaka.

“Hah! Here I was thinkin’ you were some prodigy ‘cause you beat Ika. That’s all you got? A review session isn’t worth the time without anywhere to go over,” Ryou says as she slides her hand across the board, snatching up the pieces and putting them back in the box.

While only a coincidence, it was strikingly similar to what Yaichi did the previous night …… And gouged out a piece of Ai’s already reeling heart after the loss.

“…………!”

Ai didn’t respond. She just sat on her ankles, stared into her lap, and dug her fingers into her knees. Determined not to let the enemy see her cry, she bit down on her lip in a desperate attempt to hold back the tears.

Every piece already back in the box, Ryou got to her feet and pointed her fan right at Ai’s face.

“Oi. School kid.” As if looking down on Ai from the top of a mountain, she said, “I fought that Master of yours in the Elementary School Meijin Finals. No handicaps, got that?”

She was referring to the Elementary School Meijin Title Match eight years ago–––.

Although she lost to Yaichi, a boy two years her junior, that particular title match is still remembered as one of the best of all time.

All four participants who made it to the semifinals became professional Shogi players or joined the Women’s League, showing just how much talent was on display for that year’s Elementary School Meijin Title Match.

Ryou Tsukiyomizaka possessed a wealth of talent …… and is remarkably strong.

“Tell me, what’s the handicap when you play against that Master of yours? No Rook? Two-Piece?”

“………”

“Then again, he ain’t that scary without a handicap anyway. The Meijin’s goin’ to put him in his place at the bottom of the barrel where he belongs. Hah! Losin’ three in a row, that’s too weak! He’d probably lose with a No Bishop handicap on his side, yeah?”

“……!!”

Ai bit down even harder on her lip to endure the pain, hands shaking as they clutched her knees.

However, there was nothing she could say.

Skillwise, she wasn’t in a position to talk back …… And saying anything now would put her Master in an awkward position.

That’s why she stayed silent. However, she glared daggers at Ryou Tsukiyomizaka with fire in her eyes.

Staring down on her with a bitterly cold eyes, the Women’s King simply said, “You’re out of your league. Scram.”

Keika rushed out the door without her shoes when she saw Akira half-carrying Ai up to the house.

Taking the limp girl from her, Keika brought Ai inside the threshold and set her down against the wall before sliding her feet into the plastic sandals her father wore in Hawaii and went back outside.

She could see Ai Yashajin in the back of a taxi parked out front and the empty seat were Ai Hinatsuru had most likely been sitting. The back door was still open.

Akira was standing next to that open door like a well-trained guard dog.

“You came all the way out here from Shin-Osaka Station by taxi? I’ll get some money to cover–––.”

“No! The Lord of the Manor shall cover all travel expenses. Please do not concern yourself.”

“But ……”

“She’s saying we don’t need the money. People that don’t have any to start with should just nod and go along with it,” said a clearly agitated Ai Yashajin with her arms folded across her chest.

“My word! Getting completely destroyed at the Tokyo Association then crying all the way here …… I’ve never been so annoyed! Don’t play that way if you’re going to cry so hard when you lose! Everyone knows charging headfirst into a title holder won’t work ……!”

“There was nothing she could do. Her opponent was Ryou Tsukiyomizaka after all, and—– …”

“No matter who your opponent is or where your head is at, playing Shogi is pointless if you don’t win. Excuses won’t change anything.”

“……… You know what. Yes, you’re absolutely right.”

“?”

Ai fell silent, losing interest after Keika wholeheartedly agreed with her opinion.

A few moments later, “Humph.”

“Akira. We’re leaving.”

“Oh! Wait just a second!”

“…… What?”

“Congratulations on making it through the first round. And …… Thank you, for winning.”

“Huh? Why are you thanking me for that?”

“Because …… if both of his apprentices lost, Yaichi would never get back to his usual self. That’s why you won, isn’t it? Why you used all those off-the-board techniques–––.”

“……!”

Ai Yashajin broke off eye contact and looked down to hide her face.

“Ginko and I have been analyzing your matches inside for a while now. Ai’s Shogi was a little disappointing, but––– …” Dropping her voice down to make sure Ai Hinatsuru couldn’t hear her, Keika continued, “Yours was fantastic. Every move you made said I refuse to lose, even though you were going against someone from Kanto’s Sub League. I know maintaining a stronger defense than your opponent isn’t your style, but you did it anyway …… You sacrificed your pride to come away with the win. You have my respect.”

Ai Yashajin defeated Karen Noboryou in the match earlier that day.

Due to the fact that Kanto Sub League has more members than its Kansai counterpart, promoting is much more difficult.

Karen had yet to achieve a dan ranking, but her skills were on par with Ginko, a current 2-dan in Kansai. More than likely, she would’ve been able to hold her ground against a Women’s League title holder. Therefore, winning against Karen is a pretty big achievement.

“Keeping up a strong defense against a skilled opponent is actually more difficult than attacking. No matter how good you are at defending, the fear of getting overpowered first never goes away ……”

The best way to look away from that fear, the simplest solution …

That is–––to attack.

“Shogi is one-on-one, so your opponent will defend whenever you’re on the attack. That’s when you can ignore the fear …… But it comes at a price. You lose the moment your attack gets cut off. Just like what happened to Ai in her match today.”

“Not really …… I just thought winning would be easier with a strong defense. It’s better to have a tight formation to protect against any surprises when playing against an unfamiliar opponent. That’s just common sense.”

Ai had meticulously woven formations that allowed her to constantly be in a slightly better position than her opponent … in order to avoid getting tripped up by strategies she had yet to research.

Then, all she had to do was wait for the inpatient Karen’s fuse to run out.

Under normal circumstances, Karen would have identified Ai’s strategy early on and changed the battle into a war of attrition …… However, the fact that Ai’s taunts before the match hit home and that she never considered an elementary school girl to be any real threat sealed the unexpected loss.

After the match, Karen’s lips turned purple out of stunned disbelief. She curled into a ball in front of the board and was unable to stand on her own for quite some time.

Knowing that she had never once taken the lead from a Practice League Member in elementary school crushed her confidence, breaking her spine into pieces.

“You know what else? Ginko said some good things about you … about your Shogi skills today.”

“…………”

“’Her Shogi is still weak. But, she’s got a strong spirit.’”

“!!”

Ai Yashajin’s face flushed red as if a bomb had gone off under her skin.

Was it anger? Or perhaps–––.

“Shut up, shut up, SHUT UP! B-Bottom feeders shouldn’t talk about other people’s playing style like they know everything! I won for me! I wasn’t playing for anyone else, especially not that weak piece of trash I have to call Master! Make no mistake!!” She narrowed her eyes, glaring at Keika like a demon and added, “Tell Ginko Sora …… she’ll lose one of her titles if she doesn’t start learning what my Shogi can do.”

“Why not tell her yourself? She’s inside.”

“I refuse to get friendly with an opponent. Even one in the same Shogi family.”

Ginko stands at the top of the Mynavi Women’s Open as Queen.

Should Ai Yashajin keep winning, the two will collide in a five-round title match.

Remembering, Keika said, “Which reminds me, you now qualify to enter the Women’s League. Congratulations. Are you going to register right away?”

“…… As of now, I don’t plan on it.”

“The faster you do, the easier it is to get promoted.”

“I don’t care,” Ai said, almost brushing off the advice. Then, she continued with a small, devilish smile on her lips. “And, don’t you think it’s more interesting this way? Naniwa’s Snow White, flawless against Women’s League players, losing her crown to an amateur in grade school–––.”

“See, I knew you had a kind heart.”

“Huuh?”

“You’re letting her join first. Your older sister apprentice, Ai.”

“……!!”

Ai Yashajin froze, the devilish smile still on her face.

“Hmm,” muttered Keika, pressing her forefinger to her lower lip and said as if searching her memory, “I don’t think you’ll have to wait too long. Today didn’t go her way, but Ai will get promoted to C-1 if she can keep up her winning streak in the Practice League. All that’s left is getting Yaichi–––.”

“Th! That’s not my problem!! Don’t say things you don’t understand!! You …… You presumptive hag!!” Ai flicked her hair over her shoulder like a long, dark wing and kicked the door all the way open in frustration. “Akira! Get in the car already!! I’ll have the driver leave without you?!”

“Y-Yes, my lady! Well then …… Keika, excuse us!”

Giving a deep bow, Akira hastily jumped into the passenger seat next to the driver.

Keika watched the taxi’s taillights disappear down on the street with a slight grimace.

“…… That girl. If only she were more honest with herself.”

Then, she went back inside to find Ai Hinatsuru still wearing her shoes and slouched against the wall. Keika looked down at her with a motherly smile.

“Ai. Go take a bath and I’ll get dinner ready. Then, please tell me about it once you settle down a bit …… about everything that happened since yesterday.”

The easiest way to explain this is it’s beef on udon noodles just without the noodles.

The broth-filled bowl Keika placed in front of her certainly looked like something out of a Kansai noodle shop.

But rather than noodles, it was chock full of extra meat with a half-cooked, runny egg on top.

“It only takes a few minutes to make, but it’s nice and hot and it really hits the spot! Perfect for when you’re exhausted. Doesn’t that sound good?”

“………”

“I always made it for Yaichi and Ginko whenever they came home, crying and listless after losing a Shogi match.”

“……………… Master …… did ……?”

“He sure did. I’d make it for him now, too, if he’d just come by ……”

Keika’s face lights up with a meek but warm smile as she takes a trip down memory lane.

“That’s the thing about those two. When they lose, they downright refuse to leave the board until they win. They don’t drink or eat anything, just keep playing with tears flowing. By the time they get home, they’re so weak that a small gust of wind could knock them over. Regular food just wouldn’t go down their throats. Isn’t that right, Ginko?”

“……”

Ginko was off in the corner by herself, looking at her smartphone acting like she couldn’t care less what the others were talking about.

While she had no intention of speaking with Ai directly, Ginko seemed interested in what the girl had to say.

Fighting back another grimace, Keika turned away from the stubborn girl and back to Ai.

“Once you get your appetite back, it’s really good with rice and an egg. Put a little special soy sauce on it, and it’s like magic! The best thing you’ve ever tasted!”

“………… I want to try.”

“Great! Wait right there!”

Keika shuffled back into the kitchen, her slippers smacking against the wooden floor. She then cracked an egg onto a bowl of rice like she’s done it millions of times and brought it back out to the table.

Then, she patiently waited for Ai to finish eating.

“So, Ai? Could you please tell me what happened? All Yaichi said was, Please take my apprentice until the Title Match is over.”

“…………… It’s ………… It’s, all my fault ……”

Tears started pouring from the girl’s eyes once again.

“I’ve done …… nothing but …… bother …… Master …… Even though he’s …… trying so hard …… I can’t …… do anything ……!”

“Ai …… You’re not bothering him. Far from it, Yaichi’s been winning a lot more since you came.”

“……… No …… As long as I’m there, Master …………”

Ai strung words together in spotty whispers.

Once the topic changed to Yaichi’s mental state–––.

“……! I had no idea ……”

Keika was at a loss for words. She couldn’t believe that pressure had pushed him that far.

“……”

Ginko’s ears perked up, her fingers completely still over her smartphone.

Once Ai had finished, Keika tried her best to lighten the mood.

“Anyway …… Let’s leave him be for a while. This is the kind of thing that he’ll have to get over on his own anyway. In the meantime, I’m so happy you’ll be staying here with us, Ai!”

“……… Thank … you ……”

“That’s okay, you don’t need to say thanks. But, you’ve got to be sleepy by now? My father is out doing Placement Matches, so he’ll be late. Actually, he’ll go out drinking somewhere once he’s done so there’s no telling when he’ll come home.”

With that, Keika led Ai up to the second floor.

The second-floor bedroom–––the room where Yaichi once slept. Keika tucked Ai into her Master’s old bed and walked toward the door. With her hand on the light switch, Keika asked, “Ai, do you need anything? Just name anything you want.”

“……… Okay, then–––.”

Keika’s eyes widened in surprise as she listed off a few things …… Then started tearing up.

She promised she’d get everything ready, and a weak smile appeared on Ai’s face for the first time that night.

So innocent and endearing, it was all Keika could do to keep the tears back.

Ai fell asleep moments after closing her eyes, the room silent but for her soft breathing.

Keika switched off the lights and quietly slid the door shut.

Then, just as she was coming down the stairs–––.

“Oh?”

She saw Ginko getting ready to go out the front door. And she thought the girl would be staying the night ……

“Ginko? Where are you going? It’s late.”

“I forgot something at the Association. I’ll go straight home to my apartment after that, so I won’t be coming back here tonight.”

“You can get it tomorrow?”

“I don’t want anyone taking my stuff.”

“I think you’ll just make things worse right now.”

“…… See you later.”

Ginko made a quick exit. Keika watched her go, forcing a smile as her shoulders slumped.

“………… Too much ……,” I mutter as I work at my computer.

But it’s not the room. I’m getting frustrated at how much Shogi information I have to go through.

Since everything I thought I knew turned out to be wrong, I’ve been using Shogi software to help me research all the sequences starting at square one.

The software’s got more Shogi skills than top-class players … plus it never gets tired or emotional. If anything can lead me to the right answer, this is it.

And that’s been mostly true. The software has given me many different answers …… but, yeah.

“…… This won’t work. It’s too inefficient.”

I’ve gone through one little tidbit of Move-Loss Bishop Exchange sequences with the software and it already feels like I hit a dead end.

There are too many things to check …… People and software think in very different ways. So, I can’t understand how it got the answers it gave me no matter how hard I try. I’ll have to just flat-out memorize everything.

In the end, it’d be the same as staying up all night to prepare for a test. It’ll be a long, long time before I get any better at Shogi like this.

“…… It’d be so nice if someone told me what I’d face in the match, saying something like: This formation and this sequence are coming up! That’s not how it works in an actual match though …… Doesn’t help that the Meijin plays Static Rook and Ranging Rook, the perfect all-rounder ……”

I’ve lost most of my confidence, but I’m not so far gone as to think that preparing like this will help me win against the Meijin.

“But …… Then, what other options are there ……?”

So long as I don’t trust what I’m seeing, software is the only thing I can count on right now. There’s nothing else ……

Shake! My whole body shivers.

“Pretty cold …… It’s already November, so why wouldn’t it be?”

Should I turn on the heater or go take a bath ……? Usually, Ai would show up and say: Master! The bath is ready♪ before I’d have time to think about it ……

The doorbell rings just as that thought passed through my head.

“……………?”

Who could that be this late at night?

I quietly get up and try to peek out the window, but I hear the door unlock before I get over there.

My heart jumps into my throat for a second.

But–––.

“Yaichi? I’m coming in.”

A different girl from the one I was thinking of appears. One with silver hair–––.

“Big Sis? Why’re you here?”

“Why ……?”

Big Sis looked like she was about to complain, but her face returns to its usual emotionless shape just as quickly.

“Nothing much. I happened to be close, so I thought I’d stop in. I just left a practice session at the association. Which reminds me, Yaichi. The Mynavi Finals match records, did you see them?”

“…… No, I haven’t. I think it’s better for me to focus on my own match right now.”

“True. I think that’s what you should do, too.”

Big Sis agrees with me immediately but …… Now I’m curious and skim over the records.

Ai Yashajin won. A nice, strong win.

But …… Ai Hinatsuru’s Shogi was totally out of balance.

I know why better than anyone else.

Now I wish I hadn’t looked.

“You’ve got it the worst right now, Yaichi. That’s why you should just focus on yourself. This is no time to be worrying about some grade school girl’s feelings.”

“………”

“I understand you, Yaichi. That’s why I’m with you no matter what you decide.”

“…………… Appreciated.”

“Sure.”

Big Sis gives me a happy nod before plopping down on my bed.

Is she planning to stay here ……?

She’s saying she supports my decision to keep Ai at Master’s place for the time being so I can focus on myself, but comes to stay here herself? Talk about a contradiction. What’s she trying to pull?

For now, I’ll just ignore her and get back to my research–––.

“…… Could you not stare at me like that?”

“Do you want any help? Is there anything you want me to do for you?”

“Nothing really.”

“I see,” she says unconvincingly, sitting on my bed and swinging her feet back and forth.

…… Ignore, ignore.

I’ve got my research to focus on. Just me and the computer. Focus, focus ……

At some point, Big Sis gets up, grabs one of my Shogi books off the shelf without asking, lies down on my bed and starts reading.

I can hear every page she turns, every shift of fabric when she changes position …… It’s strangely distracting. I never thought the situation of having a beautiful girl in a sailor-style school uniform lying on my bed would chip away at my concentration this much.

She must’ve gotten bored of reading, because Big Sis starts talking to me while still sprawled out on my bed.

“Want me to make you something to eat?”

“Can you make anything that can be eaten?”

“Of course I can ……… Like eggs on rice.”

“I can make that myself, so don’t bother.”

Shutting down the conversation there, I turn my focus back to the computer. Big Sis is lazing about on my bed. Hugging my pillow, giving it a few whacks every now and then. Basically, she’s playing around.

Maybe five minutes later, she speaks up again.

“Shouldn’t you take a break? Aren’t you tired?”

“Not at all.”

“I could get you some coffee.”

“No thanks.”

She sounds a bit pissed. Her face is a blank slate, but I’ve been around Big Sis long enough to know how to read her mood.

Enough already. Would you just please go home, like now?

More shifting fabric sounds as she lies back down on my bed …… Yeah, I didn’t think it’d rattle me this much.

––…… And people are saying things about us, too.

Thinking back to what I heard during the third match after party, I want to scream at the top of my lungs.

And she has no idea what’s going on–––.

“…… Say, Yaichi,” says Big Sis, laying on my bed with my pillow in her arms, in a quiet but strong whisper, “…… are you sure …… there’s nothing, you want me to do? I’ll make an exception right now …… and do anything you want.”

“Anything like?”

“……………………………… Like what was going to happen next, in Hawaii ……”

Hawaii.

Just the sound of that one word brought all the painful memories flooding back in excruciating detail–––and the sound I’ve been hearing since then ramps up to a deafening roar. Too much to bear. Then ……

Something inside me snapped.

“…… You know something?”

“What?”

“Please just leave me alone. I’ve got my title match to fight, and you’ve got to defend your Women’s Throne title, right? I appreciate the offer to help, but each of us should be focusing on our own battles right now.”

“I’m fine. I not going to lose anyway. So, I’m here to support you.”

“…… Geez! Why don’t you get it?!”

I get up from my chair, glare down at Big Sis lying on my bed, and yell right at her.

“People are saying things, bad things about you because you spend so much time with me! It’s annoying, isn’t it?! That’s why I’m trying to put some space between us, at least during the title matches! I’m trying to help you out here, so would you please wake up and figure that out already?!!”

“Then just come out and say it! What are you so worried about?!”

Big Sis stands up and looks me right in the eyes. “People have been saying stuff for years, remember?! And they all shut up when you showed what you can do! You took the title–––.”

“And I’m about to lose it!”

“That’s ………… Seriously!!”

Really ticked off, Big Sis grabs my arms and yells.

“So what if you lose the title?! The idiots who wouldn’t look at you without it won’t be there from the start! Any of them who only showed up after you got that title can all just disappear!!”

I don’t …… need the title?

What the hell is she saying?

Me having this title is the only reason people tolerate us being together, isn’t it? Once that balance is gone, they won’t let us, right?

Why do you think I’m working so damn hard to–––

“I want to be with you, always! Now and forever!! We can get stronger together like we used to!! Is that not enough?!”

“………”

Get stronger together?

Me and Big Sis? Like we did when we were kids?

If …… if it were that easy to improve …… Then why the hell don’t I know what to do??!!

“…… Say I did have you around, how would that help?”

“Huh?”

“What could a lowly Sub League member actually do?”

“……!!”

At first, Big Sis had an I don’t understand what you’re saying kind of look on her face.

But her ash-colored eyes instantly take on that blue tint that means she’s ready for a fight. Her hands, wrapped tight around my arms, are shaking.

I’m fuming myself and won’t stop now.

Panicking, with my back against the wall, regretting everything that happened with Ai, anger at my own worthlessness and that damn noise that’s been pounding inside my head since I lost in Hawaii make me scream at Big Sis with no end in sight. I let her know exactly what it feels like and nothing’s going to stop me.

“Who do you think I’m going against, huh? That Meijin, him! It’s nothing like the soft Shogi someone who’s never played a match in 3-dan League knows. I’d get rusty doing practice sessions with you, Big Sis. Using software on my own is so much more efficient––.”

I get that far, and freeze.

Because I saw …… tears building up in Big Sis’s eyes.

–––Shit. I said too much.

“B-Big Sis. I sor–––.”

The tears didn’t fall.

But a fist came down in their place.

“Die!! Burn in hell, you piece of trash!!!”

Her fist hits me square in the nose like a rock. I fall backward onto the floor. All of her weight must’ve gone into that punch.

“Hurry up and die!! Die like the brainless scum you are, Yaichi!!!”

Long, sweeping kicks like she’s trying to score a soccer goal from midfield relentlessly slam into my side. Her sharp fingernails jab deep into my solar plexus, knocking the wind out of me. I can’t breathe.

Lastly, she pulls out the spare key to my room and throws it, keychain and all, at me from point-blank range. One more “Die!!” and Big Sis storms out of my room, stomping all the way.

“Gahh ……… Owwch …………… What is … that woman’s problem ………?!”

Gingerly sitting up, I touch my nose to make sure I’m not bleeding.

Luckily, there’s no blood which means no bones are broken. I don’t think Big Sis was holding anything back though ……

“…… I know I’m trash, you don’t have to tell me ……,” I muttered to myself as I crawled back into my chair and started moving Shogi pieces across the monitor with my mouse.

Even though I finally got the study environment I wanted, I didn’t get much done at all that day.

Ginko left the house saying, “I won’t be back,” but still ended up returning thirty minutes earlier than I expected and crying her eyes out.

She burst into the room and jumped face first into my lap, absolutely bawling …… Everything she was saying boiled down to one thing, “Go to hell, Yaichi.” She’s even harder to look at than Ai.

Naniwa’s Snow White doesn’t let anyone else see her like this.

“He can die for all I care …… That piece of trash should just die ……! I-I …… waited for him at the bottom of the stairs …… But he never came after me ……!!”

“Yes, yes, I know. You can cry all you want, but try to keep it down, okay? Ai is sleeping upstairs, and you don’t want to wake her up, do you?”

“…… Ungh ……… Hnghh ………”

Of course, the last thing she would ever want is for Ai to see her like this. Ginko bites down on my skirt to keep her wailing under control.

Ah-aah …… This is one of my favorite skirts, too.

Oh well. Ginko’s so cute like this, so I’ll let it slide.

“My word …… I told you, didn’t I? That going tonight was a bad idea. Pressuring him now was a bad move on your part, Ginko,” I say, gently stroking her hair. She’s a total mess right now, but the princess still has a bit of anger left to get out and pops her head up.

“No, it wasn’t! Yaichi’s the bad one! He’s the one that said I was in the way!!”

She yells with all her might, a fresh wave of tears streaming down her cheeks. Then she plunges her face back into my lap.

Spoiled rotten, this girl.

It’s like she’s reverted to the four-year-old she was when she first got here.

Ginko has always come to me like this after squabbling with Yaichi through the years.

“Keika, Yaichi just–––.”

“But Yaichi’s the one that–––.”

“Yaichi’s the bad one. Not me. Go make him sorry!”

Ginko’s asked me to do it hundreds, maybe thousands of times by now.

But she doesn’t really want me to scold him.

She wants me to help her patch things up.

This spoiled princess can’t bring herself to apologize on her own. She panics whenever the two start arguing.

Her make him sorry means do something or make him forgive me. So, I always call Yaichi over once I’ve gotten Ginko to calm down and say something like: It’s the man’s job to apologize for this kind of thing, even if they’re right. Don’t be mad at Ginko, okay?

And convince him to make up.

Even after fighting with her, Yaichi would look like nothing happened at all and go out to play more Shogi. It didn’t faze him at all. He’d forget all about the argument after about an hour because Shogi was the only thing on his mind.

And Ginko hated that.

Which is more important: me or Shogi?!

Her lips could explode and those words still would never come out of her mouth.

But that’s exactly what’s going on.

It’s a cliché … but it’s an accurate ultimatum that women have been giving men ever since Shogi was created. Ginko has been saying it every other way she could think of all this time ……

“But …… What can you do?” I whisper, gently stroking Ginko’s silver hair as she sobs into my lap …… remembering when the two of them were just little kids ……

Ginko was such a frail little girl, and Yaichi was the only one her age who’d play Shogi with her.

The only boy who’d walk at her pace.

Always with her, he was the one who’d be on the other side of the board with a grin on his face. He was special to her.

Those feelings not growing into love would be the bigger surprise.

“Yaichi’s the only one who will go along with the princess’s every wish …… when it comes to Shogi, or even everyday things.”

Back when Yaichi first came to this house, he was just a little brother through and through. She had him wrapped around her finger and he was always close behind.

At some point though, Yaichi started taking the lead. His Shogi abilities started pulling away from hers, went beyond Master’s and are now out of anyone’s reach.

There were signs.

Ginko acts all cool and calm, but she’s an emotional roller-coaster when it comes to Shogi. She bawls like there’s no tomorrow after a loss and is up on cloud nine when she wins. Master says that kids who cry get strong, but all I saw was a child venting all that pain in one big explosion.

Yaichi was just the opposite. Win or lose, he always looked like he was on an even keel.

But …… he wouldn’t leave the board.

Especially when he lost, he’d just sit there for hours or days on end thinking about where that Shogi went wrong all by himself.

I think it must’ve been …… a little while after he entered the Sub League. Probably around the time he was in sixth grade.

Yaichi hit a wall and got a B on his record in the Sub League.

No matter what he tried, he just couldn’t win against lower-ranking players without that Lance. He’d sit by himself and stare at a board all the time back in those days.

Watching over him from a distance all that time, I knew he wasn’t sleeping at night and all the time he was spending in front of a Shogi board was unhealthy. But one day, when I couldn’t take it any longer, I went to tell him to get some sleep already.

That’s when I saw.

Yaichi, sitting alone in his room with his Shogi board …… was staring at it and crying harder than I’d never seen.

There wasn’t much noise at all, just tears streaming down his cheeks …… He was so focused on the board that he forgot to wipe them off. I saw it all.

All the emotions he kept bottled up inside were coming out in tears.

That’s how I saw it.

From there, I realized that this boy can change the agony of defeat into strength. It felt like that was the first time I saw Yaichi for who he really is …… What his talent really is.

It wasn’t much later that Yaichi cleared that wall–––and got stronger almost overnight.

From what I can tell, his state of mind now is pretty close to what it was back then. He is going up against the tallest, thickest wall he’s ever faced and has gone back to the drawing board to reinvent himself so he can clear it.

That’s probably why Ginko is so anxious.

Yaichi’s about to clear another hurdle and go even further away. Ginko’s afraid of getting left behind ……

Which brings up one more thing.

Not by much, but Ginko reached that age …… more quickly than Yaichi.

As I see it, that’s what’s really separating these two when it comes to strength.

Yaichi only has Shogi in his head. Now and always.

But, inside Ginko’s heart–––.

“…… Still just a baby boy, isn’t he? That Dragon King of ours.”

Yaichi doesn’t understand it himself.

He doesn’t realize how much impact he has on those around him, how otherworldly his talent is, he has no clue. Ginko would probably yell at him, calling him a blind moron or something.

During that first match, I have to admit the Meijin’s big picture sense was amazing, but Yaichi was right there with him. No one could look at that Shogi and say, “Kuzuryu played shoddy, baseless Shogi and crumbled.” I was there in the break room in Hawaii, but those two were playing at such a high level, it all went over my head.

Sure, the second match wasn’t his best, but he nearly won the third. It’s not like there’s that much of a skill gap between the two of them either. Yaichi has lost three straight, but he’s improving. I’m pretty sure he’ll win the next match if everything plays out normally.

Yes. Normally.

He just doesn’t have enough experience to do that yet.

I mean …… He’s only seventeen.

He was sixteen when he took the title.

Even the Meijin didn’t get his first one until he was nineteen.

And no one was dominating the Shogi world back then like he is now.

Despite never playing head-to-head, Yaichi took the top title as a sixteen-year-old while the Meijin had the rest of the Shogi world under his thumb.

Thinking about it logically–––that means Yaichi has just as much talent as the Meijin, if not more.

Unfortunately, I’m the only one in the Shogi world who can accept that fact for what it is. Active players don’t like the idea that someone younger than themselves could be at a higher level. It’s much easier for someone like me, who knew their talent ceiling from the start, to see these things.

A truth that only I—and no one else in this world, including Yaichi himself—have figured out.

That’s why I want to tell him, “Yaichi, you aren’t weak.”

That.

And one more thing.

“I’ve been watching you grow.”

Also.

“I know how hard you’ve tried, all those painful tears you’ve shed, that you’ve cried in front of your Shogi board …… I know that you never run away, no matter how hopeless the situation or how strong the opponent. I know.”

I want to tell him all of it.

But I’m sure he wouldn’t even look at me right now. Even if he did, I doubt he’d take what I had to say seriously.

I don’t care what it takes. I’ll find a way to get through to him.

“Oh, I know. I know that you are always, always …… trying as hard as you can.”

No one else.

I’m the one that needs to tell him.

“That’s …… the big sister’s job, isn’t it?” I whisper quietly under my breath, still gently patting Ginko’s head as she sobs in my lap.

…… And feeling heat building in the pit of my chest.

With only the computer monitor for light in my room, I’ve been researching nonstop.

Ever since I felt I hit a wall trying to use the software to help me figure out the best move, I’ve been trying all sorts of things only to have them lead to even more dead ends. Day in and day out, over and over again.

It’s like I’ve gotten lost in some massive dungeon …

With no idea where the exit is …… Heck, I don’t even know where I am anymore.

If there is a Shogi god, all I want is some kind of sign. Some indication telling me I’m going the right way.

“…… If it’s effort you want, I’ll give as much as it takes ……”

No matter how much time I poured into it, there was a constant cloud of fear hanging over me that all of this was pointless ……

That I’m going in the wrong direction … that if I don’t turn back now it’ll be too late.

All that fear and stress prevented me from making any progress at all … more like going around in circles in the same spot.

“…… Please, tell me ……… Somebody ………”

Some proof that I’m going forward.

I want to feel like I’m closing in on an answer.

I want someone to tell me I’m right.

All I hear is that same damn sound–––.

“………… All I can do is get stronger. I have to do it alone.”

Competitors are always on their own. The need to depend on others leads to weakness.

Keika, Big Sis, Master and the apprentice who unconditionally adores me …… It was so nice being around everyone.

That soft, warm atmosphere …… was slowly rotting me away.

–––I threw it all away. So I can get stronger.

My mind made up, I barely left my apartment at all and hadn’t had a square meal in ages.

That hunger is sharpening my mind and body. A constant supply of coffee and chocolate, pretty much anything with caffeine, and water has kept me going. Turning my smartphone off cut my last line the outside world.

Just once, I left my room to go stock up at a convenience store across the street. But when I did, there was something hanging on the door knob.

……?

There was a letter folded in half inside a bag.

To Yaichi. I made some of your favorite things. Please help yourself.

Keika’s handwriting.

Soft handwriting, the kind I’d seen since I was a kid, the kind that made me feel warm inside just by looking at these messages. I’d know these anywhere.

There was a Tupperware container full of food in the bag, too. Still warm. Just as the message said, it was full of my favorites.

But I don’t feel hungry at all …… And don’t feel like eating this much anyway. A full stomach would just make me sleepy and I wouldn’t be able to concentrate.

But more than that–––it reminded me of the warmth that I’ve put behind me ……

I felt bad for Keika, but I stuck the food in the freezer and didn’t touch it.

The next day and the day after that, there was a bag outside my door … Each with a message from Keika.

To Yaichi. Are you eating everything?

To Yaichi. Take care of yourself, okay?

To Yaichi. Make sure to stay warm when you go to bed.

All of them were messages concerned with worrying about me written in those warm letters.

Each of them was short and never once mentioned Shogi. It’s like she was giving me a lot of breathing room …… The effort that went into each one came across so strong I could feel it.

But yesterday’s message was different from all the rest.

Something felt strange about that one.

It’s extremely unusual for her to ask anyone to watch her Shogi. She was never comfortable with friends or family watching her play and, even if she did invite someone, she’d say something more like: “I’d be happy if you were there to see.”

That little detail felt very strange.

That’s why … even though I had my own research to do …… I remembered her match was going on just after lunch.

“That’s right …… Today, the Mynavi ……”

First round of the Finals. She’s playing against Ms. Shakando.

I know that she’s a women’s title holder, but I don’t think anything in that match will be useful for a pro title holder like me. Watching that match won’t help me at all.

I’ve made up my mind. Anything that doesn’t make me stronger must go.

But–––.

“It’s Keika’s match ……”

I thought about it for a while but–––open the Mynavi Women’s Open official site and click on the Match Record Blog button.

But the person who appeared in front of me didn’t have any.

Forget wings, she didn’t have a set of working legs ……

“Pardon me,” she said with a feminine voice so delicate it may as well have come from a glass bell. Glamorous, puffy skirt waving from side to side, she moves into the upper seat like it’s where she belongs.

Tokyo. A special arena within the Shogi Association.

I look up at this person from the lower seat on hollowed Shogi ground, a place I never thought I would ever have any connection to.

Women’s Legend Rina Shakando.

She’s taken the Queen title four times, but that’s her current Women’s League title. Also holding the status of Eternal Queen, looking at her is like seeing the queen of some magical kingdom in a fairy tale storybook come to life.

This is not …… my first time meeting her.

Actually, back when I was a little girl, my father introduced me to her and she gave me an instruction match. I still remember how kind she was.

But now, sitting across the board from her like this, her presence is so overwhelming that those warm memories are getting blown away right before my eyes ……

“Master, what brand shall you be drinking today?”

“Let’s see …… A straight Rizé shall do nicely. It is best to feel invigorated on the morning of an extremely important Shogi match.”

“I couldn’t agree more.”

Her gallant apprentice Ayumu Kannabe 6-dan is beside her, assisting.

This boy …… No, I suppose I should call him a young man. He has accompanied his Master to the association every single time she came here, just like this, since he started junior high school.

Shakando-sensei can walk fine on her own if she uses a cane, but using one of them here would damage the tatami mat. So she always needs someone to assist her–––.

That reasoning has to be only the tip of the iceberg. That look in Ayumu’s eyes when he’s around Shakando-sensei is a lot more than the loving respect a pupil has for their Master.

“…………”

I take a few quiet breaths to steady myself and look once again at the renowned Women’s League player sitting across from me.

The one at the top–––.

She already reigned over the Women’s League when I was learning how to play.

Maintaining that position uninterrupted for the next twelve years, she’s become a living legend in the Women’s League.

She fended off the next generation flawlessly, dominated the following one …… and is currently holding her ground against the one after that.

It wasn’t until a prodigy who skipped over the Women’s League to enter the Sub League–––until Naniwa’s Snow White appeared on the scene that she was the single driving force behind Women’s Shogi.

I, someone who once discarded Shogi and is on the brink of being discarded by Shogi itself, am about to face that renowned legend at the top ……

––– …… I don’t belong here, do I?

Feeling rather small and insignificant, I look away from the Shogi board.

Ayumu comes back a few moments later carrying a full tea set on a silver platter in his arms. Shakando-sensei offers her loving apprentice some kind words.

“Much obliged. Now, you must go.”

“I shall return, for the afternoon meal ……”

“Yes.”

Once their parting is such sweet sorrow exchange is over, Ayumu gives me a slight bow before leaving the arena.

Shakando-sensei picks up her teacup, but rather than take a sip, she takes a deep breath to leisurely enjoy the aroma.

“Such a lovely fragrance …… The smell of tea helps to soothe my nerves before an important match like this. Otherwise I struggle to control my quivering fingers.”

She looks at me with an elegant smile from the upper seat. At the same time, it takes everything I have to force my lips into a strung-out smile back to her.

–––This person …… is nervous about going against me … of all people? There’s no way ……

Is Shakando-sensei saying that she, too, gets nervous playing in the Mynavi Finals, the most important tournament in the world of women’s Shogi? I’d sure like it if she does. Because, I mean, I’m too tense to speak right now ……

“Excuse me, Sensei ……”

My nerves making my voice sound strange, I do my best to greet Shakando-sensei. It’s taking every ounce of courage I have.

“It’s nice to meet you. I’m Kousuke Kiyotaki’s daughter, Keika Kiyotaki. I hope today–––.”

“That introduction is incorrect.”

“Huh?”

“Our paths have crossed before, yes?”

“You remember me ……?”

“Fu-fu.”

She places the teacup back on the platter and smiles as if she’s enjoying the moment. Then the person at the peak whispers, “Now. Start from the beginning.”

“Ah, umm …… It’s nice to see you again, Shakando-sensei ……”

“Yes. I have been looking forward to this day.”

She must’ve done tens of thousands of instructional lessons over the years.

If she still remembers every single one …… There’s only one way that’s possible ……

This person takes every match she plays seriously.

Even when going against some little girl, she’s committed herself one hundred percent to every single match she’s ever played.

“……!”

My body heats up in a flash.

This is what it is. This is what people at the peak are like. That’s what’s different. The difference between us.

The love of Shogi, the depth.

Loved by Shogi … the love for it. The strength of that bond.

“Well then–––shall we begin?”

Shakando-Women’s Legend says, her voice bubbling with excitement as she opens the piece box.

Almost like a young girl in love.

However, I’m the one who aggressively took control of the match.

“Opposing Rook …… is it? Well, well?”

The 12th move.

Shakando-sensei’s hand comes to a stop when she sees me swiftly slide my Rook across the board.

“………… I see.”

My strategy is more like a scheme.

The chances of beating her with a yagura or a fourth file Rook are a million to one at best.

That being the case, if I use a strategy I’ve never played in a league match, at least I know she won’t have any research on me.

–––That is …… if Shakando-sensei would actually research someone like me.

“Fu-fu. Interesting …… Quite interesting.”

The Eternal Queen opens a black, Western-style fan with a quick shick.

“Then–––I expect you to thoroughly entertain me.”

She moves a central Pawn forward and brings out a Silver.

“Extreme Rapid Battle ……!”

Creak! My jaw clenches so tight I hear my teeth cry.

My little scheme isn’t making Shakando-sensei slow down at all. Actually, she’s coming out to meet me head on, abandoning defense in favor of a fast offensive.

Right where I want her.

–––Go ahead and take the fifth column! While you’re busy over there, I’ll build up a strong Mino Castle ……!

Refusing to let the fear of her attack control me, I reinforce my defense.

Ai Yashajin’s Shogi is still fresh in my mind. What I wouldn’t give to have her nerves of steel.

Then again, I …… don’t have anything close to her talent or guts either.

What’s more, someone with my level of skill isn’t about to cut off an attack from the person across from me any time soon.

–––How’s she this good with small pieces?! These are just Pawns, so why ……?!

Advance, Throwing Star, rise and then isolate–––.

The Women’s Legend keeps using all these light and quick Pawn techniques to keep me from getting anywhere, like a cat toying with a mouse.

It wasn’t long before she built up a formation that all but guaranteed her victory.

I …… I had no idea …… she was this much better than me ……

………Wherever ……

Wherever I move a piece, no matter how I try to attack, I’ll end up taking losses.

It’s like I’m stuck in a forest of thorns.

There I was, drawn in by a beautiful flower, but had no idea what I was getting into …… By the time I knew what was happening, I couldn’t move a muscle.

––– …… Is this all? Is this as far as I go? I ……

Tears start building up in my eyes at how pathetic I am.

That’s when.

“This is an important match, yes?”

“……… Huh?”

Pretty sure that Ms. Shakando said something to me, I look up from the board.

But she wasn’t looking at me. Ms. Shakando is just sitting there, sipping her tea like she hadn’t said anything.

…… That’s right.

–––Today’s Shogi …… I can’t lose. It’s Shogi I absolutely can’t lose ……!

My hand drifts to my chest.

Back when I lost my way, Ginko was the one who told me, “The real you is strong. But, because you think you’re weak …… Because you have no confidence, you don’t play with your own style. You are your own roadblock.”

When my spirit had all but gone out, Ginko’s words provided a new spark.

“Come on, Keika. Play with more confidence! That’s the most important thing for any competition!! It’s the only thing!!!”

That spark she gave me is still burning now.

That fire within me must be the same that’s been passed down through the generations like a massive relay since the moment Shogi was born. A holy flame connecting us all. That flame tempered my spirit with a pure love of Shogi that knows no bounds.

Right now, I have confidence.

Not confidence that I’m stronger or that I’ll win the match.

I’m confident that I love Shogi more than she does.

–––I can finally say it! Say that I love Shogi more!!

Because I threw it away once before.

Because I know that Shogi doesn’t love me back.

Because I’m fully aware this is a one-sided relationship.

I know that my love is real.

“Confidence …… Confidence!” I say to myself so I can hear it.

My back is against the wall on the board. What’s worse, Rina Shakando-Women’s Legend is on the other side. The possibility of coming back is next to nothing.

This is when I’d usually give up.

But today …… This match right now, I absolutely have to win. I don’t need to sugarcoat it by thinking: Leave it all out on the board or I haven’t lost as long as my spirit hasn’t broken.

Just win.

Win no matter what.

When that’s the only option–––I can be strong!!

Burning …… Burning!

I clench my chest to reaffirm what I already know. The flame is there.

Today, it’s burning inside me.

A reason why I absolutely cannot lose.

…… Win no matter what. Never, ever give up. I will not break. Not until my last piece is taken and my King is done for …… I will keep fighting no matter what happens!!

Reaching for the board to pick up a small piece feels more like I’m loading a gun and turning to face the enemy head on.

Seeing that blog update–––felt so bizarre that words wouldn’t come out.

“I-Is …… this really …… Keika playing against Ms. Shakando ……?”

At first, I thought I had their turns mixed up, so I go back and check. I was certain that the defender taking control of the match and pulling away was Ms. Shakando and the one struggling to keep her formation intact was Keika ……

But, it’s the opposite.

“H …… how did this happen? Where did the match turn ……?!”

Mind racing, I scroll back through the match record, back to the beginning and start over.

Falling behind in the mid-game, Keika was on the brink when Ms. Shakando got a Pawn into her territory on the 61st move.

The skill level between them looked too great to overcome at that point–––.

But, on the 76th move.

Keika had just finished forcing Ms. Shakando’s Rook out of place with the three Pawns she had on her piece stand and jammed her own Rook into a favorable position to put the King in check.

That hard-fought, muddy sequence Keika made happen slightly … ever so slightly knocked Ms. Shakando off her pace.

Now with the match flow under her control, Keika started playing her own tune on the board.

She’s so focused on her dynamic Rook and Bishop sweeps to bring the match up to her tempo, I bet she’s forgotten that her opponent is someone far above the clouds, the four-time Queen. It’s like all she’s thinking about is how to get the best move onto the board …… That win no matter what happens mindset of hers is coming through loud and clear on the match record.

If Ms. Shakando’s Shogi is a delicate piano sonata, then Keika’s is a round of drums and flutes set to a folk song. Every stubborn, muddy Kansai player’s spirit is pulsing in her fingertips.

“How’s this going to end?! Who’ll come out on top?!”

Now caught up with the real-time updates, I’m on the edge of my seat, almost diving into my computer screen each time I refresh the page every thirty seconds.

I can’t even blink.

Each move seems to put that player ahead. That’s how close these formations are.

But, at this rate–––.

“Keika could ………… against Ms. Shakando?”

Late game.

Both are in one-minute Shogi. Both Kings are in danger as a Practice League member exchanges blows with the Women’s League legend on a terrifying tightrope where the slightest mistake will send one plunging to the hell below.

Who ……? Who would’ve ……?!!

Who could’ve ever seen this coming?

I know Keika better than anyone, but I can’t believe it’s happening. Ms. Shakando, the one who toyed with Big Sis in a practice session, is getting overwhelmed by Keika–––.

At last, the final stage.

It’s Ms. Shakando’s turn.

If she puts her Knight at 7 Four, she’ll win. But if she moves it two squares over to 9 Four, Keika will take the victory. It all comes down to this.

Both put Keika’s King in check … but couldn’t have more different outcomes.

Only two squares.

The difference between those two choices changes a life.

“Which one will it be ……?!”

Ms. Shakando chooses––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––9 Four.

Keika did it. She won.

That’s the only way to describe it.

Amazing Shogi.

I’ve just seen incredible willpower with my own eyes.

That wasn’t some dress-up doll.

No one else could have played like that.

Really, the only one in the world.

That’s the Shogi that only Keika can play.

Just as people’s hearts take so many shapes, Shogi that has real emotion in it takes on its own unique characteristics.

I’m holed up in a dark room by myself, but the bright light coming from that Shogi is lighting up everything I see.

The room should be cold, with no heater on in November, but …… That Shogi burned hot enough to make me sweat all the way down to my fingertips.

“……… Intense ……!”

I practically shout to myself and replay the whole match again from the top.

After her first attempt to apply pressure in the early game failed, Keika was consistently overwhelmed by Ms. Shakando’s display of skill and got systematically driven back into a corner.

But–––she was strong from then on. She didn’t break.

She let the best move slip by over and over, failed and got muddy.

Never giving up, she willed herself to get back up and keep moving forward. It was that kind of Shogi.

Even going against someone as skilled and renowned as Ms. Shakando, Keika didn’t flinch a single time. And she was the one who charged in without a second thought when her opponent shook just a little bit. It was like a beacon for her.

There were no flashes of brilliance, no moves that really stand out like diamonds in the rough.

If it was some stuck-up guy in the Sub League, they’d probably say, “I’d rather die than make that move.” Just clumsy, irritating Shogi ……

That’s how I know it wasn’t skill that led to Keika’s victory.

It was–––an unyielding determination to win that did it.

The courage to believe that victory would come and keep pressing forward.

No one could break it, it would never break and was more beautiful and solid than anything else …… That’s the Shogi I saw.

Each move had the everlasting glint of a gemstone.

“Whoa ……”

Now I want to see what the arena looked like during the match, so I open up the blog history.

There’s a picture of Keika here so magnificent it blew my expectations out of the water.

“I-Is this … really, her ……?!”

It’s a picture of Keika staring at the board so hard that her face is twisting into a knot.

There’s another one of her where she looks like she’s about to cry but is determined to keep fighting.

An update says that Keika never left the board during the lunch break. Instead, she sat there with a painful look on her face, her hand on her chest as she kept repeating. “I can do this!—I’m strong! I won’t lose!” to convince herself to keep going.

“Keika’s always so gentle …… Who knew she could get like this in front of a board ……?”

But almost immediately, I realized how important this match was to her.

If she won–––Keika qualifies for the Women’s League.

“…… I guess dreams do come true. Even dreams I didn’t think were possible ……”

Another blog update comes in, this one with a picture of her right after she won the match.

It says that rather than saying, “I lost,” when she threw in the towel, Ms. Shakando lowered her head and said this:

There’s a picture of her looking down and away, pressing a handkerchief against her eyes.

And in the background, Ms. Shakando is looking at her with a kind smile ……

Ms. Shakando, the one who once told me flat-out that low level players had no place in the Women’s League, is wishing the best for Keika now that she can join …… From the bottom of her heart.

“…………That must’ve been … an amazing match ……”

The left hand holding her handkerchief to her eyes and the right hand still squeezing the daylights out of her knee even after the match ended show just how much time and effort she’s devoted to Shogi over the years.

“She’s been giving it …… everything she has ……”

Lost heart so many times. Always wondering if it was worth it.

Chasing the dream that rather than getting closer day by day kept drifting further away …… She made a miracle happen. No one else. She did it.

Keika as she is today …… is blinding to me right now ……

Another blog update.

This one has a video of her post-match interview attached to it.

“…………”

I’m on the fence about if I should press play or not.

…… Is it okay for me to watch this right now?

There’s a part of me seeing her achieve her dream …… A part of me that’s jealous, and that’s pitiful …… Watching it scares me.

But I have to.

Keika’s note told me to watch. I’m sure she wasn’t just talking about the match. She must want me to see what she looked like during the match and after, too. Everything.

So.

“…………”

I click on the play button. My finger trembling just a bit.

“Ah …… that’s right. Of course it was in the back of my mind, but–––.”

This should be the happiest day of her life now that she’s achieved her lifelong dream, but rather than talk about how happy she is, Keika goes in a completely different direction.

“I …… wanted to show something.”

“–––Show? Like, delivering a message?”

“Yes. Um …… How to explain it …… That, miracles happen? I spent a lot of time thinking about what makes the impossible possible. Because, I mean, I needed nothing short of a miracle to beat Shakando-sensei today, right?”

“–––Did you find an answer?”

“I did …… At least, I feel like I did. The one thing that makes miracles happen …… But it wasn’t anything special. Far from special, it’s something very normal that happens every day …… I’m sorry. I don’t know how to put this ……”

“–––You can take all the time you need,” the interviewer says.

Keika tries to speak, opening her mouth only for the words to get stuck. But she keeps trying and keeps talking out of sheer willpower.

Keika is desperately trying to get a message across …… But to whom?

My heart rate picks up.

“A child who started off so weak and got strong out of nowhere, started beating adults one after another …… And one day ends up defeating opponents who should’ve been unbeatable. I wanted to show that that kind of miracle actually happens quite a bit in the Shogi world …… Basically, that someone with no talent like me could, umm ……”

Words fail her again.

She keeps opening her mouth, but no words come out. Only tears ……

“Uhh …… I’m sorry about this. I’m just so dumb, and so bad at Shogi …… I have no idea how or what to say ……”

Squeezing her handkerchief, Keika looks down at the floor like she’s frustrated with herself and for some reason apologizes on the day her dream finally came true.

Then she looks up, tears streaming down her face, and says, “Sorry. It’s not something I can put into words. That’s why I tried to show it by winning today’s match. Basically–––.”

She forces her messy face into a smile.

Looks at the camera–––looks at someone who should be watching through that camera and says with all the might she can muster …

Something that only those who have fought with everything they had, only those who claimed victory with their own strength can say with the most unshakable confidence in the world.

More solid and beautiful than diamonds, her effort turned into crystals.

“…… Keika ……”

Rivers barreling out of my eyes.

Everything I’ve kept caged up inside is getting washed out all at once, the tears keep coming.

It’s like I’m back to the crybaby I used to be, crying out Keika’s name like some toddler.

“Keika ……… Keika ………!”

Keika fought for me.

With her own Shogi life in the balance.

A match that determines her destiny.

But she didn’t play to join the Women’s League–––she played for me.

She did all that, but I …… I ……!

“H-How …… could I have been this stupid ………?!”

Not only to Keika.

Big Sis came all the way to my apartment and said she wanted to help me.

And the one who cheered me on more than anyone else, Ai.

I need to talk to them, right now.

I want to apologize.

“……!”

Unable to sit still anymore, I make for the door and go outside in the old T-shirt and sweatpants I’ve been wearing in my room.

Where to, I don’t know.

Keika is still in Tokyo.

Big Sis and Ai … who knows where they are.

But the one thing I do know is they aren’t in my room. So, I can’t stay here.

Early evening, already?!

Having been a while since I went outside, the air is cold and brisk …… My lungs feel cleaner with every breath.

Then … I notice.

“……?”

There’s a paper bag hanging from the door knob. Like always.

There’s a container inside, and just like always, it’s stuffed full of warm food–––.

“Warm? ……!!”

Keika is up in Tokyo for the match.

Which means …… the one who made this has to be–––.

“……!!”

I got so angry at how stupid and pathetic I am that I bit down on my lip hard enough to taste blood.

If it is who I think it is, then the food in here would be ……!

I open the container and try a little of the fried eggs and handmade onigiri rice balls inside.

No doubt about it.

The one who made this and brought it all the way to my door–––was Ai.

The notes from Keika must’ve been because she thought I wouldn’t take the food if I knew.

She wanted me to be as comfortable as possible but still find a way to be useful …… She’s been doing everything she could to help me this whole time. All for her piece of trash Master and wanting nothing in return.

The food is still warm.

That means she might still be close!

“Ai ………!”

I practically fly down the apartment stairs.

Nearly tripping over my feet a few times, I race through the early evening shopping district.

My out-of-shape body is screaming for me to stop.

Legs cramp up and my lungs feel like they’re about to fall apart.

One of my untied shoes falls off, but I couldn’t care less and keep running.

A total sputtering mess, just like my Shogi right now, I keep on going.

Then–––.

“………… Ai ……”

A small frame swaying side to side as she walks toward the station.

The instant I saw her.

That small back jumps in surprise ……

Then slowly turns to me.

A fresh wave of tears builds up in my eyes.

Even stumbling forward, I can see this glowing angel.

I sprint toward her as fast as my legs will go.

Now looking my way, Ai starts running toward me, too.

Even though it’s been so long since I ran like this I could face-plant at any second.

Still going forward, I land on my knees and–––.

The important thing …… The most important thing is right here in my arms.

“I’m sorry, Ai ……”

Thinking I was protecting her, that was just a convenient excuse. I was only trying to protect myself. I was the one pulling all the strings. The only thing I ended up doing was blaming her for my losses.

This girl saved me …

During my losing streak … when my spirit was about to break … when the weight of the title Ryuo was crushing me to death.

That’s why I swore to myself I would raise her.

And I ……

“Ai …… I’m sorry! So, so sorry ……!!”

“Master ……”

Still in my embrace and me apologizing on an endless loop, Ai says, “…… Master ………… I, I have something to tell you ……”