Why not swing 7k and play Reiju 2 and effect, second turn? 7 cards in hands, Reiju 2 (6), effects to Reiju 4 (5) buy 2 with Reiju 4 effect and 1 with leader, back to 8 in hands and cycle to find stage.
I agree this is definitely a better play. I don't think about summoning from hand but this would have been optimal for sure. First time with reiju in person 😅