The battle rages on as Byoki tries to take over Mao's body. Nanoka witnesses the accident that orphaned her unfold, and suspicion falls on her present-day guardians. Can her beloved grandfather and Uozumi be trusted? What about Mao, who has no memories of what he does in his hybrid form? Then, a former fellow apprentice to Mao's master attacks...with flaming heads! Was Mao really his master's golden child--or something else? Meanwhile, back in town, young women are disappearing. Who is the prime suspect?