Chapters 21-24 Summary

The Master makes a brilliant response to Otake's aggressive move before the break as Chapter 21 begins, holding back his attack. They make several more plays before the end of the session.

In Chapter 22, the game has entered the middle phase. Each player has staked out his territory on the board and will soon have to decide on how and where to make advances against his opponent in the end game. For the first time, the Master seems eager to leave the table at the noon break, Uragami notices.

It is early August as Chapter 23 opens; the Master's health is deteriorating quickly. Play on August 5 is to be delayed while he is examined by a doctor, but the doctor is called away. The Master insists on playing, even though Otake would rather not while he is in such obvious discomfort. The Master...