Yamada's "best frenemy," Ushio Igarashi , confronts him. A flashback reveals they were once close friends who were both social outcasts. Their friendship ended when Ushio betrayed Yamada by framing him for a fight to stay close to Nene.
The episode is noted for being "fan-service free" compared to previous ones, focusing instead on emotional stakes and the overarching mystery.
Critics praised the focus on Yamada and Shiraishi's relationship, noting that their mutual trust and Shiraishi's assertiveness (the slap) were highlights of the season.