Damn Hikaru, way to get out of that one. Had me worried, but you came up with a great lie that sounds believable. Now you don't have to worry about Waya continuing to question you. And now Hikaru has qualified to play in the tournament, just barely. He's excited to be playing and he's starting to see himself as good enough to challenge the pros. He's ready to face Akira.
Akira is reviewing his match against Sai. Ogata comes over to talk to him and he mentions Hikaru, but Akira doesn't care. Ogata mentions that he'll be facing him in the second round if Hikaru can make it. Akira checks the tournament match ups and grits his teeth saying that even if their names are side by side, it doesn't mean Hikaru is on his level. Hopefully Hikaru can face him in the tournament. Even if he doesn't win against Akira. At least so he can prove himself.