Ep 68. Losing by Default

Losing by Default is the 68th episode of the first season of Hikaru No Go, and the episode is an exposition of the intensity and pressure of the national Go tournament and how the participants handle the scrutiny.

The episode opens with the first round of the national Go tournament underway, and many players are facing the challenge. The matches are intense, and the players are determined to succeed. Hikaru and Akira are both competing in the tournament, and their matches are highly anticipated.

The audience, made up of Go enthusiasts, officials and the press, is eager to witness the match between Hikaru and Akira. Hikaru, on his part, is hoping to emerge victorious and gain the recognition he needs to become a professional Go player. On the other hand, Akira is confident in his abilities and is determined to win.

As the match begins, the two players face off against each other, both making calculated moves towards victory. The intensity of the match is palpable, and the audience is on the edge of their seats. The pressure is intense, and the players are under immense pressure to perform.

However, things take a turn for the worse when Hikaru falls ill in the middle of the match. Akira, sensing that Hikaru is unwell, offers a forfeit. Hikaru, realizing the gravity of the situation, refuses to accept the offer, thereby making the match an automatic loss. Akira is declared the winner by default.

Hikaru is crestfallen, realizing that his dreams of becoming a professional Go player may come to naught. He returns home, despondent, and is comforted by his friends and family. He feels that he has let down everyone, especially his mentor Sai.

Sai, however, reminds him that it is not the end of the world and that he should not give up on his dreams. Hikaru is encouraged by Sai's words and decides to continue playing Go, despite the setback.

The episode ends with Hikaru back in school, with his friends and fellow Go enthusiasts cheering him on. Hikaru is determined to come back stronger and prove his mettle as a Go player. He knows that it will take hard work and dedication, but he is willing to put in the effort to achieve his dreams.

In conclusion, Losing by Default is an emotional episode that captures the pressure and intensity of the national Go tournament. The episode is a reminder that setbacks are a part of life, but with perseverance and hard work, one can overcome them.