When the ancient spirit Kojomaru awakens more powerful than ever, he launches a brutal offensive against Atsuma and Shui. But when Atsuma touches Kojomaru, he senses a sadness flowing out of him and knows that Kojomaru needs his help. Meanwhile, NOA’s treacherous first lieutenant Yanagi tries to return to Utsuho, only to find a hidden lab that conceals the dark secret of Yanagi's origin. Well-developed characters and themes of betrayal and redemption add weight to this popular manga series.