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

It's Kousei's turn to take the stage, and everyone is waiting to see whether or not he will be able to play. How will he be able to perform with the memories of his mother still floating in his mind?

Kousei, Tsubaki and Watari visit Kaori in the hospital, but she insists everything is fine. Tsubaki reflects on her past with Kousei and considers if she has romantic feelings for him. Meanwhile, Kousei makes an important decision about his future.

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

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

Unable to come to grips with the idea that Kousei has feelings for Kaori, Tsubaki lashes out. Kousei, meanwhile, continues to avoid visiting Kaori in the hospital.

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