With the remote hot springs nestled amidst gloomy forests and a strangely dressed man at the center, the stage is set for an eerie tale resembling a ghost story. The man, who is actually unclothed, is quickly identified by Usami and Nikaidou as one of the coveted tattooed prisoners due to his markings. They are at the local hot spring, visiting the recuperating Ariko and Kikuta.

The man turns out to be Toni, the hot spring masseur and master of echolocation, who may be familiar to viewers from previous seasons due to his distinctive hearing aid. Working alongside Hijikata, Toni uses his profession to gather and relay crucial information. When Ariko and Kikuta manage to secure his tattooed skin, they remain unaware of Toni’s connection to Hijikata and the extent of the information he has divulged.

Hijikata’s knowledge of the situation remains enigmatic. If he is aware of the Seventh’s presence at the hot springs, it could lead him there, especially since his line of communication has been severed. Given Tsurumi’s impending arrival, this could set the stage for an intense confrontation between the two leaders.

The episode skillfully introduces the new members of the 7th Division, Ariko and Kikuta, who manage to piece the puzzle together despite being in the dark about certain details.