(Match Journal)
(MATCH JOURNAL)
I had decided to use anaguma from the very beginning.
Before the title match commenced, I knew that the outcome would be determined by the strategy I had spent my life continuously refining.
There wasn’t a shadow of a doubt in my mind.
That much was certain because I have been researching various sequences to allow my King to arrive at one corner of the board, sequences that have become known as the anaguma bear-in-the-hole defensive strategy, since I was a 5th grade student in elementary school.
Successfully completing an anaguma is considered having a one point advantage over the opponent in modern Shogi (though many professionals favor a more balanced formation as of late). Feeling the advantages firsthand, I devoted myself to perfecting the technique with years of thorough research.
Moreso than the benefits it offers, the reason I pursued the anaguma was mainly due to the admiration I held for players who wielded its power.
However, above all else, I saw beauty in its formation.
Pieces line up one by one, stacking line by line to protect their King as if adorning him in a 12-layer jyuuni hitoe ceremonial kimono.
A perfectly square formation in the corner of the Shogi board is an exceptionally rare sight to behold.
That is what I find beautiful.
I sense the will of a higher power behind the proficient Mino Castle formation.
The yagura’s many variations give it a fun twist, as if window shopping for the perfect outfit amidst all the options at your fingertips.
Still nothing can compare to the agaguma’s elegant beauty.
I shall repeat myself now and forever.
I love the anaguma.
Therefore, no matter the outcome, there is one moment I shall never forget as long as I live.
When the heart jumps as the Lance advances to 9 Two.