Allan Scott

Beth Harmon defeats Mr. Shaibel in the basement of the orphanage, leading him to realize her extraordinary talent. He gives her a book on chess openings and acknowledges that her skill is astounding for a nine-year-old.

Beth, a young chess prodigy, plays a game with her mentor, Mr. Shaibel, quickly defeating him. Afterward, he gives her a chess book and, when she asks if she's good enough, he offers a profound compliment, acknowledging her extraordinary talent.

Mr. Ganz requests that Beth play a simultaneous chess match at the high school while Mrs. Deardorff sets strict boundaries for Beth's behavior.