Miaka and the Suzaku Seven all grieving for Nuriko's death continues on their journey for the Shinzaho. They enter to the cavern of Genbu, where they encounter Tomite and Hikitsu, two warriors of the Genbu Seven. They are both the protectors of the Shinzaho and will not give it to anybody. Miaka, the Priestess of Suzaku, is put to a test to see if she really is the Priestess. Tomite and Hikitsu kills Miaka by freezing her. She is saved by her powers of Suzaku. Tomite and Hikitsu apologize to the Priestess and gives her the Shinzaho. Tomite tells them that it is not enough to summon Suzaku and they must get the Shinzaho from the west, Byakko. On their way out, Miaka thinks about the devotion of the Genbu Seven for their Priestess even after they had passed on. She is happy knowing that Nuriko will watch over her as well.

Tamahome, Tasuki, and the rest of the Suzaku Seven rescue Miaka from Suboshi. They arrive in Sairou and stay with Tamahome’s master, Tokaki. Tamahome kisses Miaka and says that they cannot love anymore. Tokaki tells him he made the right decision and that their love would never have consummated. Miaka and Chichiri contact Hotohori through and magic mirror and provide him with a very brief (and incomplete) update on their situation. Suboshi returns Amiboshi to Makan Village. Nakago tells Yui that he loves her, Soi overhears this. Xing, Tokaki’s adoptive daughter, tells Miaka a legend that if two lovers kiss at sunset atop a tower next to a nearby temple nothing will separate them. Miaka helps Xing prepare dinner. Miaka’s cooking is horrible, but after she leaves the room Tamahome eats all of it. Xing is told by Tokaki to help Tamahome forget Miaka and when it appears they are about to kiss Miaka enters the room.