The team of Claymore reach the mountains and are surprised by what they encounter, a Male Awakened One. Another Claymore and a handler are watching the battle from a distance, but what do they appear to be plotting? The battle reaches its climatic stage, with all but the "Phantom Miria", badly wounded. This may be what the Awakened meant by "true despair", however Claire is one to know what true despair is really like and this is not it.

After what occurred in the mountains of Zakol, Jeane is accompanying Claire until she can return her favour, however Claire already feels thankful to her because she is now able to fully control her "Flash Sword". Out of the blue Claire's handler Rubel turns up with the no. 5 "Rafaela" but not with request for her return to the organization but with orders to join the war, against Awakened beings, in the Northern Lands. This mission brings upon an unexpected reunion.