During the Maihou Music Competition, Kousei has trouble hearing the notes. He tries drawing on dear memories to help him through his performance.

The qualifiers are up, but Kousei is sure he already knows where he placed. Takeshi and Emi however are desperate to see how their greatest rival was marked.

School's over and Summer break has begun, as long as you're not in Summer School. For Kousei and Kaori though there's not break yet, as they have to prepare for the Gala Concert. Tsubaki though just wants to spend whatever time she can with her friends, as the future is so uncertain. Can Saki help Kousei hear the music?

Kousei has taken the stage at the Gala Concert. Endeavoring to put on a performance without Kaori. This is his chance to prove his abilities as a pianist and try to come to terms with the memory of his mother.

Tsubaki is frustrated as she sees her friends moving forward, afraid that she might be left behind. Kousei finds it difficult to keep visiting Kaori in the hospital. Hiroko comes across a promising young talent.

Kousei's concerns for Kaori temporarily subside as he runs into her on the street and they go shopping. Nagi can't take the harsh criticism she receives with Kousei as her piano teacher.

Nagi is feeling the pressure of her upcoming performance, and is struggling to deal with it. But as she learns, every performer goes through the same emotions.

Nagi and Kousei finally take the stage. Despite acting as Nagi's support during their performance, Kousei challenges Nagi to reach her full potential.

After Nagi and Kousei's performance Takeshi is pumped. It's his turn to take the stage. What will his music say about himself? What will he convey to the audience?

Unable to come to grips with the idea that Kousei has feelings for Kaori, Tsubaki lashes out. Kousei, meanwhile, continues to avoid visiting Kaori in the hospital.

Kousei breaks down and stops playing piano after he witnesses Kaori's health waning. The Eastern Japan Piano Competition continues.

Knowing her time is limited, Kaori undergoes a risky operation, hoping to have the chance to play with Kousei on stage one more time.