Ep 35. Only One Can Win

Hikaru No Go is an anime series that follows the story of a young boy named Hikaru Shindo as he discovers a passion for the game of Go and attempts to become a professional player. In season 1 episode 35, titled "Only One Can Win," Hikaru finds himself face to face with his friend and rival, Akira Toya, in a high-stakes match that will determine which of them will advance to the pro exam finals.

The episode begins with Hikaru and Akira each having won their preliminary matches and now preparing to face off in the semi-finals. The tension between the two boys is palpable as they arrive at the playing hall and exchange brief, terse greetings before settling in at their respective boards. The room is filled with spectators, many of them there specifically to watch the two young prodigies face off against one another.

As the match gets underway, Hikaru is immediately struck by how much better Akira has become since their last match. The older boy's playing style is more confident and aggressive, and he seems to be reading the board with ease. Hikaru, meanwhile, is feeling nervous and intimidated by his opponent's skill level. He knows that if he loses this match, his dream of becoming a professional Go player will be over.

Despite his nerves, Hikaru manages to hold his own against Akira for the first several moves. However, it quickly becomes clear that Akira is playing a more risky game than he ever has before, intentionally leaving himself vulnerable in certain areas in order to force Hikaru to make a mistake. Hikaru is torn between playing it safe and making a bold move that could turn the game in his favor.

As the match wears on, both boys become more and more emotionally invested in the outcome. Hikaru remembers all of the times that Akira has acted condescendingly toward him in the past, and he becomes determined to prove that he is just as good a player. Akira, meanwhile, is desperate to win and prove himself to his father, who has always been critical of his son's passion for Go.

The tension in the room is at a fever pitch as the two boys approach the end of the match. It becomes apparent that the outcome will be determined by a single, pivotal move that will either win the game or cost one of them the match. Hikaru takes a deep breath and makes his move, hoping against hope that it will be the right one.

As the game comes to an end, both Hikaru and Akira are left reeling. Hikaru is devastated that he has lost the match and will not be advancing to the finals, while Akira is shaken by how close Hikaru came to beating him. The two boys exchange a brief, intense moment of eye contact before solemnly exiting the playing hall.

The episode ends with Hikaru walking out into the bright sunlight, feeling defeated but also oddly invigorated. He knows that he has a long way to go before he can become a professional Go player, but the experience of playing against Akira has taught him more than any book or teacher ever could. He resolves to continue playing, practicing, and studying until he is ready to take on his rival once again.