During the lunch break of his match with Tsubaki, Hikaru learns that many players have struggled with education and occupation when trying to take the professional exam. At this point, after his match, Hikaru has won eight matches and lost one match. Akira has agreed to give private lessons to Kosuke Ochi in an attempt to learn how strong a level Hikaru is playing at. However, Ochi figures this out and refuses to be taught by the likes of him.