Takaya's mission was to investigate the revival of the Ikko sect and locate Araki Murashige, a deserter from the clan. Accompanied by his faithful vassal Haruie, Takaya successfully traces Araki, who is on a quest to procure a 400-year-old mandala made from the hair of deceased Araki clansmen. However, their meeting takes a complicated turn when Haruie recognizes Araki as her past-life lover Shintarou. Although Takaya orders her to eliminate Araki as a threat, it remains uncertain if Haruie can carry out the task. Additionally, Takaya finally encounters Naoe during his mission.