On board the armored collection truck, Touko meets fellow reluctant travelers. Meanwhile, in the capital, the orphaned Koushi gets an unexpected offer from a wealthy magnate. Despite his misgivings, this patron could be his ailing sister's only hope.

While Touko and her companions flee the wreckage of their trucks, Koushi digs through the archive for forgotten tomes. What he discovers casts his mission in a new light.

Hinako's illness worsens, provoking a crisis at the Okibi mansion. Meanwhile, Touko joins Akira to confront the gods. New forces and unguessed truths emerge as Flickering Flame draws ever closer.