Ep 10. Episode 10

Rei Kiriyama's struggles continue in episode 10 of "March Comes in Like a Lion". The pressure of the winter shogi tournament is taking its toll as he tries to balance studying for his high school entrance exams and his matches. Things only get more difficult when he finds himself matched against his teacher, Koda-sensei.

Rei is hesitant to play against Koda-sensei, knowing that the older man is counting on winning to secure his own promotion. However, Rei is also determined to win as he needs the prize money to support his adoptive family and pay for his exams. The tension between the two players is palpable, and the match proves to be both mentally and emotionally taxing for Rei.

Meanwhile, Rei's foster sister, Hinata, is struggling with her own unique challenges. She is still feeling the effects of the bullying she faced in school, and her attempts to make friends aren't going as well as she hoped. This leads to a heart-to-heart conversation between Hinata and Rei, as they both try to support each other in their respective struggles.

As the tournament continues, Rei faces other tough opponents, including the skilled player, Yasui. The matches are intense, and Rei finds himself grappling with his own self-doubt and anxieties. He reflects on his past, particularly on the time when he was a child prodigy in the shogi world. He wonders if he will ever be able to recapture his former prowess, and if his current struggles are indicative of his failure.

Things come to a head in the final match of the tournament, where Rei is matched up against his ultimate rival, Nikaido. Nikaido is a fierce competitor, and Rei is feeling the pressure as he tries to keep up. However, with the support of his friends and family, and a newfound strength of will, Rei enters into the match with renewed motivation. The final outcome of the match is left up in the air, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.

Overall, episode 10 of "March Comes in Like a Lion" is a poignant and heart-wrenching chapter in Rei's story. It delves deep into his insecurities and doubts, while also showcasing the strength and resilience that he possesses. The episode is beautifully animated and expertly paced, making it a must-watch for fans of the series.