The band travels to nationals. During their hotel stay, Kumiko and Shuuichi meet at a vending machine and have an awkward conversation, and he gives her a late birthday gift, a hairpin decorated the same kind of flowers Taki bought for his wife (having been told by Sapphire that Kumiko likes them). The band plays at the competition. While waiting for their results they realize that they did not come up with a cheer for Taki during the conductors' awards; Reina confesses her love in place of a cheer but is misunderstood. Kitauji wins bronze, but Taki passes on a message to Asuka from her father, and Kumiko has an emotional reunion with Mamiko, who had come to watch.