Continuing on from last time, Rikuo, Yuki-onna, Aotaba and Kubinashi notice the distressed Karasu Tengu, but he flies off without noticing them. Later, Gozumaru and Mezumaru reveal that the Supreme Commander Nurarihyon has disappeared and they are searching for him.

Right off the bat, one of the high ranking officials of the Nura clan, Hihi, and his underlings are killed by the attacking force.

So it turns out that indeed Gyuki was trying to protect the Nura Clan and did not want a part-youkai who rejects his demon self as the Third Heir. He was afraid a weak would destroy the clan, as would be the case if Rikuo became commander and still wavered between his human and youkai forms.

I was surprised at Rikuo’s sudden power increase as he fought Gozumaru. He pulled a sword out of thin air then was suddenly able to attack his opponent furiously and quite skillfully. I’m guessing he has started to partially sync with his Night Form, and is able to summon some of that strength.

「魔の山に仕組まれし罠」
“A Trap is Set on the Evil Mountain”

Thanks to the groups over-interest in youkai/over-interest in free onsen and meals, the Paranormal Patrol ignore how incredibly creepy the professor is and fail to heed Rikuo’s warnings. With all the foreboding and hints, there is no doubt to the viewer from the beginning that they are walking into a trap.

「鬼棲む山に紅き梅は咲く」
“Red Plum Blossoms on the Demons’ Mountain”

It’s unfortunate for Rikuo that Kana fell for his night form and didn’t know they were the same people. Even though this isn’t a romance anime, these misunderstandings seem to be a prevalent element used to create some drama between characters.