As Shinichi Chiaki shines as the conductor of Roux-Marlet Orchestra, Nodame excels as a pianist in Paris. Yet, their bond strains as Nodame feels overshadowed by Chiaki's success and his bond with prodigy Rui Son. Against advice, Nodame ventures into a piano contest to reignite her career. Meanwhile, Rui questions her path, Stresemann faces mortality, and Yunlong and Tatiana brace for a fierce competition, the latter grappling with affection for oboist Yasunori. In their individual quests, Chiaki, Nodame, and friends navigate personal dilemmas while staying true to their roots.