Just when peaceful days are finally coming back into Aoi’s life, O-Ryo brings some shocking news

Aoi develops her new hot-spring buns with help from everyone at Tenjin-ya.

Tenjin-ya’s fall festival is a big success, and Aoi and the master innkeeper discuss their relationship.

Nothing is going well at Tenjin. The master never returned, and the treacherous Raijû claims to have obtained his position.

As Aoi gets to know Takechiyo, she also finds out more about her late grandfather.

Aoi finally learns about the master innkeeper's origins.

As she seeks to infiltrate the royal palace, Aoi learns more about Byakuya and his past.

Aoi reunites with Takechiyo. Meanwhile, Byakuya's conversation with the ayakashi king goes sideways.

Aoi and company make it to the northern land, where they take the next steps in their plan.

Aoi gets some surprise new helpers, Ginji ponders his feelings, and Kasuga and Kiyo try to please each other.