Hachiken is drafted to help Sensei make some cheese wheels, and they all learn about the arduous and careful process of making cheese. His friends reveal that their families' farms are in debt, and Hachiken worries because he has no way to help them. He tries to support them and encourage them by just being there for them, even though he can't do anything to save their farms.

This was an emotional volume, as Hachiken starts to feel more confident about showing his true feelings to his friends, and they in turn allow themselves to be more vulnerable with him. I just love all the strong friendships and little flirtations that are developing more and more!