This volume had a somewhat slower pace compared to the previous ones. It delved less into the actions and developments directly related to the characters and instead focused more on tween melodrama. As a result, it wasn't quite as enjoyable as the last installment.

Hikaru's transformation from an apathetic sixth-grader to someone with the ambition to become a serious go player and defeat Akira Toya has been gradually developed over several volumes. However, the exact reason behind this change still isn't entirely clear. At times, it feels as if the author is deliberately hinting at a possible romantic or intense rivalry between Akira and Hikaru, perhaps to encourage fans to explore such ideas. Now, Hikaru becomes motivated to take the test for Insei, which is a significant step for serious go players in Japan, as it is a sort of apprentice professional-in-training rank.

This decision causes a great deal of drama within Haze Middle School's go club. Frankly, some of it seems rather silly. The other members are busy studying for their high school entrance exams, so it's a bit puzzling why they care so much about whether Hikaru quits the go club. Maybe it's that exaggerated sense of life-and-death importance that is often attached to seemingly trivial things during adolescence, something that I, being older, have trouble fully remembering.

Meanwhile, Akari, Hikaru's so-called "girlfriend," remains a tertiary character. She still doesn't have a proper subplot of her own. So far, all she does is stand around, looking at Hikaru with a dreamy expression, while still struggling to understand basic go concepts that the boys have mastered in just a few days.

I do appreciate the author's little endnotes where she shares details about how she creates the manga, her concerns about the pages being shipped, and editorial directions. However, sometimes it gives the impression that she is reaching for content.

Don't get me wrong, I'm still enjoying the series overall. But this volume was more of a 3.5 out of 5 and seems to be a transitional chapter. There was almost no appearance of Sai in this volume, and Akira was only mentioned briefly. The entire subplot from the previous volume about Sai becoming an Internet go sensation was completely dropped. We'll have to wait until the next volume to find out whether Hikaru will succeed in becoming an Insei.

Does Touya chase Shindo or Shindo chase Touya?

This question has been on the minds of Go enthusiasts for a long time. The rivalry between these two talented players continues to heat up as Shindo works tirelessly to elevate his game.

Shindo's determination to improve is truly inspiring. He spends countless hours studying strategies, analyzing past games, and practicing with other players.

As for Touya, he is no slouch either. He has his own unique style of play and is always looking for ways to outwit his opponents.

Their rivalry has not only brought out the best in each other but has also captured the attention of the Go community.

I, for one, have been completely hooked on this exciting story. It has made me want to learn Go more than ever!

I can't wait to see what the future holds for these two amazing players. Will Shindo finally overtake Touya? Or will Touya continue to reign supreme?

Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – their rivalry is sure to provide us with many more thrilling moments to come.

This story holds a special place in my heart as it is like comfort food for me.

I find myself constantly drawn back to reread the book or rewatch the anime, yet I can't quite put my finger on the exact reason.

Certainly, my interest in Go plays a significant role. The strategic and intellectual nature of the game adds an extra layer of appeal.

However, there is more to it than that. I also appreciate that it is a generally positive story about the journey of getting good at something.

It shows the hard work, dedication, and perseverance required to master a skill.

The characters' growth and development throughout the story are inspiring and make me believe that with enough effort, anything is possible.

Whether it's the beautiful illustrations in the anime or the detailed descriptions in the book, this story continues to captivate me and bring a sense of warmth and inspiration.

I look forward to many more rereadings and rewatchings in the future.

Sai, while learning the strategies of modern Go, becomes even stronger and unstoppable. However, Shindo, through continuous playing and training with him, has also improved.

Touya, meanwhile, has passed the professional exam.

Shindo, if he wants to catch up with him, cannot just think about a simple Go tournament.

He must study hard, make great efforts, and continuously improve himself. In order to avoid the gap becoming insurmountable, he decides to take on the exam to become an Insei. Will he be promoted?

This is a crucial moment for Shindo. He knows that he has to give his all in this exam. He spends countless hours studying Go theories, analyzing previous games, and practicing his skills.

His determination and hard work are paying off. As the exam approaches, he feels more confident and prepared.

Everyone is waiting to see the result of Shindo's exam. Will he be able to achieve his goal and take a step closer to Touya? Only time will tell.

Sad to see the Internet arc come to an end. It's truly a pity. However, I suppose Hikaru entering the professional world is of great significance. It marks a new chapter in his journey. Meanwhile, Kaga is back, and he's chewing gum and carrying firecrackers around! It's quite a sight. Clearly, he was smoking earlier, and they were waving away the smoke from the air. It seems there's more censorship going on here. But despite all this, the story continues to unfold, and we can only wait and see what will happen next.

Everyone noticed that Hikaru was getting stronger. And then, Hikaru seriously started to chase after Touya ^^

The anime didn't exactly match up to this volume (in terms of the breaks). Episode 18 corresponded to volume 5 up to page 59 (games 35 - 37.5). Episode 19 covered volume 5 pages 60 - 110 (games 37.5 - 39.75). Episode 20 was from volume 5 pages 111 - 155 (games 39.75 - 41). Episode 21 included volume 5 pages 157 - 203 (games 42 - 43).

It's interesting to see the differences and similarities between the anime and the manga. The way the story is presented in each medium can have its own charm. In the anime, the visuals and animations bring the characters and the Go games to life in a vivid way. On the other hand, the manga allows for a more detailed exploration of the characters' thoughts and emotions through the illustrations and the written text.

Whether you prefer the anime or the manga, both offer an engaging and exciting experience for fans of the Hikaru no Go series. It's great to be able to follow Hikaru's journey as he grows stronger and faces various challenges in the world of Go.

Excellent! I'm really sad that there was a conflict with the club. It truly disappoints me. I also find myself wondering why Akira was given an exception. After all, he seems to be in the same situation as others. But then I guess it might be because of who his dad is. Maybe his father has some influence or connection that led to this special treatment. That or perhaps I missed something crucial. It's quite a mystery to me. I hope there's a reasonable explanation for this. I keep thinking about it and it just doesn't sit right with me. I'll have to look into it further or wait for more information to come to light.

Hikaru had been engrossed in playing Go on the computer. However, his grandfather, who recognized his passion for the game, bought him his very own Go board. This was a significant moment for Hikaru as it marked a new phase in his Go journey.

With the new board in hand, Sai, who had been with Hikaru all along, started to play games against him on the physical board. Not only that, but Sai also began teaching Hikaru some crucial moves and strategies.

Hikaru was so dedicated to improving his Go skills that he decided to quit the Go club in his middle school. His ultimate goal was to become an Insei, a professional Go player. Currently, he is taking the test that will determine if he can achieve this aspiration.

It is clear that Hikaru's love for Go is driving him to make bold decisions and take on new challenges in his pursuit of excellence in the game.

I have a deep and profound love for Yumi Hotta!

Her books are truly remarkable and have an enchanting charm that captivates readers from the very first page.

The stories she weaves are filled with vivid characters, engaging plots, and rich emotions that draw you in and make you feel as if you are a part of the narrative.

Each book in the series offers a unique and unforgettable experience, taking you on a journey through different worlds and emotions.

I wholeheartedly encourage you to give the series a try.

Once you start reading, you will be hooked and find yourself eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

Hikaru's hard work and dedication are truly starting to pay off.

It is truly remarkable to see how his consistent efforts have led to positive results.

His unwavering commitment to his goals is an inspiration to all.

Whether it is in his studies, work, or personal life, Hikaru always gives his best.

He spends countless hours honing his skills and improving himself.

This kind of hard work is not easy, but Hikaru seems to embrace it with enthusiasm.

His dedication has earned him the respect and admiration of those around him.

I really liked this about Hikaru.

It shows that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.

I look forward to seeing what else Hikaru will achieve in the future.

A very confronting reminder about how the internet used to be so special and not an integrated, daily part of your life. It's crazy to think about how much has changed. The internet has become such an essential part of our daily routines that we often take it for granted.

Anyways, this is the last volume I have. Although I very much enjoyed reading this series, I'm not interested enough to continue reading online. I have my reasons for this. Maybe it's the nostalgia of holding a physical book in my hands, or perhaps it's the fact that I prefer the traditional way of reading.

However, I'm sure Hikaru eventually wins over Toya. Their rivalry has been one of the most exciting aspects of this series. I can't wait to see how it all ends. But for now, I'll just have to wait and see what the future holds for these two characters.