The unsettling possibility that Kikyo may be still alive arises, after having witnessed a sacred arrow being shot. She saves a group of villagers from a conflict with Princess Abi and her group of phoenix demons. InuYasha and his companions must follow Saint Hiriji to confirm that fact that she is really Kikyo. Kaede finds out that Kochou and Asuka, two female soul collectors in human form, visit Kikyo's grave to gather her remains. InuYasha and his companions are to venture to the Forbidden Mountain, in hopes of finding Saint Hijiri. Unfortunately, Naraku's demons are an obstacle for them. InuYasha sees an image of Kikyo before she disappears. Kagome crosses a barrier and finds a fatally wounded and unconscious Kikyo submerged in a waterfall.