Unreachable Hope.Chichiri, disguised as Nakago, is discovered by the real Nakago. Chichiri frantically goes to Tasuki, and the two go to look for Miaka. Meanwhile, Miaka meets Tamahome under the tree. Tamahome acts kindly towards her again, but his real intention is still to kill his fellow Suzaku Warriors and Miaka. When Miaka shows Tamahome the letter he had written to her before his departure from Konan, he rips it to shreds, devastating her. Tasuki and Chichiri appear to save Miaka, and a fight ensues between Tamahome and Tasuki. Nakago and Yui watch the scene from above, and Nakago reveals to Yui that the pill they had fed Tamahome is actually a drug formulated to alter the consumer's memories and personality. When Chichiri hides himself and Miaka, Nakago enters the battle. Chichiri successfully uses Tama as a medium to break the barrier of Seiryuu with the help of Hotohori, Nuriko, Mitsukake, and ultimately, Chiriko and his flute. Miaka, Chichiri, Tasuki and Tama are finally able to leave the Kutou palace, and a crying Miaka bids farewell to Tamahome. However, when they are gone, Tamahome's blank eyes are filled too with tears.