Things get even more confusing for poor Momiji when a man named Mamoru Kusanagi arrives, but when she learns that he is there to protect her from these strange monsters (Aragami), she feels safer. Little does she know Kusanagi hasn't decided to save her or sacrifice her.

Meanwhile, the TAC rush to the scene with an experimental creation that may defeat the terrible Aragami.

The battle rages on as Momiji's mother, along with Kunikida, finally confront Kaede and Susana-Oh. Meanwhile, Momiji and Ryoko find Kusanagi fighting, but before they can help him, he is defeated by Muramuko.

Kusanagi pays the prime minister a visit and delivers a special package--a cell phone from Kunakida. With it, Kunakida tries to convince goverment officials that the TAC can eliminate the Arigami without sacrificing Momiji. He asks that they at least give the TAC a chance to save Momiji's life. The prime minister reveals that that Momiji's pictures were released to the press by an Arigami spy in the government, whom they have been unable to identify.

Meanwhile, Japan is in an uproar. Volcanos are erupting everywhere and plants continue to grow at incredible rates. The people want the Momiji to be placed in custody, and they are angry with the goverment for being unable to do so.

Progress continues on the Kushinada pulse, and the TAC discovers that the secret to the Kushinada's blood is somehow involved in the strange melody that both Momiji and Kaede resonate. Momiji remembers that Kaede spoke of the rite of matsuri, and asks to be taken to the place where the ceremony is held.

Kunakid