Synopsis
Continues the story of March Comes In Like a Lion
Rei Kiriyama, a middle school graduate who has ascended to the elite ranks as a professional shogi player, faces immense pressure from both the shogi community and his adoptive family. To escape the tension at home, the 17-year-old moves into a solitary Tokyo apartment. This isolated lifestyle leads him to neglect his own needs, while his reserved nature keeps him distant from his peers and fellow competitors. Shortly after arriving in Tokyo, Rei encounters the Kawamoto sisters—Akari, Hinata, and Momo—along with their grandfather, who runs a traditional wagashi shop. Akari, the eldest, actively works to counter Rei's isolation and poor self-care with maternal warmth. Each member of the Kawamoto family is navigating their own personal hardships, yet together they offer Rei the familial bond he has long lacked. As he struggles to balance his demanding shogi career with his physical and mental well-being, Rei must learn to build connections and face his complex emotions.
In this installment
In his second year of high school, Rei Kiriyama continues to juggle the demands of professional shogi alongside his personal development. Surrounded by the lively group of friends at the shogi hall, his school club, and the neighborhood, Rei's reserved demeanor gradually begins to soften. Central to his life are the Kawamoto sisters—Akari, Hinata, and Momo—who offer him affection and a sense of family. Through these bonds, Rei comes to understand that everyone carries their own emotional burdens, prompting him to both depend on and assist others. As his social circle expands, the pressures of a professional shogi career remain relentless. With a host of tournaments, championships, and title matches ahead, Rei faces mounting challenges as he climbs the ranks and meets formidable opponents. While nurturing these meaningful relationships, Rei continues his search for the deeper meaning behind the game that defines his life.
