The eighth Story Arc of the Tokyo Ghoul series consisting of chapters 108 - 121 from the original manga and episodes 6-8 of the anime's second season. The arc centers around Kaneki, and the CCG, continuing their investigations to try to make sense of the information they've gathered until this point, as well as Kaneki trying to figure out what he should do going forward.
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Short Summary
Having returned home, Kaneki was left in a depressed state due to his actions at Kanou's mansion. However he eventually decides that a change of scenery was needed, and takes Hinami along with him to meet the famous writer, Sen Takatsuki, at a signing event. At the signing, Kaneki and Hinami introduce themselves to Takatsuki, who gains an interest on Kaneki. The two leave as Hide also shows up at the signing in the hopes of secretly getting an autograph for Kaneki.
Commander Kuroiwa visits a healing Shinohara at the hospital as the two investigators discuss the threat of the Centipede ghoul, and the discovery that there may be two Owl ghouls. At the CCG, Amon's team continues to investigate their 20th Ward cases without Shinohara, and come to the conclusion that following their discoveries at Kanou's mansion, needs much deeper investigation.
After work, Amon is finally able to have dinner with Akira, who reveals during a drunk rant that she actually hates Amon for not being there when Kureo died. However, Amon answers her that Kureo's death affected him greatly to the point of wanting to protect those around him, as well as those that were close to Kureo. Amon carries the drunk Akira back to her apartment, and after discovering how lonely she has been without her parents, decides to stick around to take care of her during the night. The next morning, Akira thanks him for his efforts as the two finally begin to form a true bond.
Kaneki shows up at Uta's shop hoping for advice related to Yoshimura and Yomo possibly being enemies. Uta answers that despite having nothing on Yoshimura, he will gladly tell of a tale about Yomo's past.
Uta tells his story to Kaneki of a time when he used to manage the 4th Ward. Uta reveals that he met, and befriended, a battle hungry Yomo into becoming a part of Uta's gang, and learned of Yomo's motivation of wanting to become strong in order to kill Arima for the death of his older sister. Yomo and Arima eventually do fight, and ends in Yomo's defeat. However, he is saved at the last second by the arrival of Yoshimura as the two disappear from the 4th Ward. Uta explains that Yomo had changed to becoming a lot calmer working under Yoshimura and asks Kaneki what he should be doing now. However, before Kaneki could answer, he states that he will need to talk with Yomo first.
Meanwhile, Tsukiyama takes Hinami out to a café for a cup of tea, and informs her that, as the two closest to Kaneki, it is up them to cheer him up. Takatsuki also stops by the cafe during Tsukiyama's bathroom break, and after hearing about Hinami's struggle to help Kaneki, informs Hinami that she can't truly help him the way she is at the moment.
At CCG, the 20th Ward investigators are informed that Shinohara is close to returning to them as Seidou and Houji notice that Amon and Akira have gotten much closer to one another. Moments later, Takatsuki arrives at the CCG to reveal information that she gathered about Kanou's facility. In a private chat, she informs Amon of how the facility was actually owned by the CCG, and that the mansion's original owner, Nanao Yasuhisa, was the provider of a ghoul solution that helped the CCG make quinques and such. Learning that Nanao died despite being under CCG protection, Amon at this point begins to question the existence of the CCG; realizing there may be more to the agency than it lets on.
Kaneki is next seen arriving at Yomo's place for his side of the story, and comes across Rize, who's been left in a pathetic state of insanity due to ghoul starvation. Kaneki begins to fall apart due to having always relied on Rize's stength to push him forward, but is told by Yomo that everything he's done until this point has been on his own strength. Yomo apologizes for always hiding information from him, and decides to tell him what he knows.
At Anteiku, Touka continues to prepare herself for the Kamii University entrance exams as she, and Nishiki, run into Hinami and Tsukiyama on the street. Despite being hostile to Tsukiyama, the Gourmet ghoul calls them out for not being there like he has been to help Kaneki through his pain. Nishiki then brings Touka to Kamii, and lets her tour the school on her own. Walking around Kamii, Touka runs into Hide again, who reveals to her how Kaneki's character came off to him growing up together as friends; that Kaneki has always been lonely, and in pain, due to growing up without any family. Hide also shows Touka the hand-on-chin habit Kaneki developed that shows when he's lying.
At CCG, Director Yoshitoki Washuu reveals to his fellow investigators that his investigations have confirmed the existence of two Owl ghouls. In the meantime, Kaneki arrives at Anteiku to confront Yoshimura about the One-Eyed Owl King of Aogiri Tree possibly being the manager's child. Kaneki explains that information from Yomo brought him to this answer, which causes Yoshimura to tell him a tale.
Yoshimura explains the story of a ghoul named Kuzen that had fallen in love with a human-girl named Ukina, and produced a child that was part-human and part-ghoul. However, the organization that Kuzen worked for had caught on to their relationship; resulting in Ukina's death, and for the baby to live on its own away from the eyes of the organization. The baby grew up hating the world, and became the original One-Eyed Owl, but in order to continue protecting his child, Kuzen became the second One-Eyed Owl to stir the attention away from his child.
Kaneki realizes that Yoshimura was describing a story about himself, and is asked by the manager to continue being the person from both worlds that can help others who lost their way; including his child. Yoshimura also asks Kaneki to finally return to Anteiku.
Kaneki leaves Anteiku to think over what to do from now on, but is finally met by Touka for the first time since they parted ways. Kaneki reveals to her that he had been offered to return to Anteiku, but seeing that he still hasn't been truthful to her, and continues to do things on his own, Touka pummels him, and orders Kaneki not to return.
Afterwards, Kaneki returns to his hideout where he tells the gang that he wishes to disband the group in order to return to Anteiku. However, he wishes for the gang to follow him as well, which they all decide in doing so. Meanwhile, Touka continues to study for the entrance exams, but regrets that her actions may keep Kaneki from actually returning.
At the CCG, Amon offers Akira a key-holder gift, which she accepts, and informs Amon that his improved quinque has been completed. In addition, Director Yoshitoki Washuu joins forces with Commander Marude to lead a team of investigators that will destroy what they discovered to be the hideout of the One-Eyed Owl ghoul; Anteiku Café.
Long Summary
Having returned home from their raid at Kanou's mansion, Kaneki remained in his room; curled up on his bed thinking over how he had injured Banjou during his temporary insanity. Tsukiyama enters the room asking how Kaneki is doing, which Kaneki answers that he wishes to be alone for awhile longer. The Gourmet ghoul shows Kaneki a batch of books he brought for him to read, and informs Kaneki that he shouldn't be blaming himself for having injured Banjou; that his actions were no different than simply walking, but accidentally crushing some ants you could never know was there. Tsukiyama tells him that that's Kaneki's right to being stronger than others, and before leaving the room, informs Kaneki that he will continue to protect him as a hidden dagger.
Alone again, Kaneki begins to read the books that Tsukiyama left for him, but finds the first story to be a complete bore. His next choice, The Hanged-man of McGuffin, is a book written by best-selling horror novelist, Sen Takatsuki, and remembers back to how his life as a ghoul all started with the mention of her Black Goat's Egg story to Rize. Reading the book, which is centered around a collection of prisoners sentenced to death, Kaneki realizes he's getting interested in one of the prisoners acting like a ghoul, which brightens his spirit a bit.
Hinami is the next to enter Kaneki's room, and notices that Kaneki's been reading a book from Takatsuki. The two discuss how the book plays out as Hinami mentions that the author holds sign meetings, and wonders what Takatsuki looks like. Thinking it over, Kaneki figures that he needs a change of scenery, and asks Hinami if she wants to go with him to meet Takatsuki at the signing, which Hinami answers that she does.
At a hospital, CCG's Shinohara is seen sitting in a bed recovering from his injuries. Commander Kuroiwa with him at his bedside as they discuss the sudden appearance of the half-kakujya ghoul known as Centipede. The two figure that they now have another dangerous ghoul on their hands as Shinohara asks if there's a possibility of humans that can be turned into a ghoul, and would struggle to decide which side to fight for. Shinohara goes over his findings with Kuroiwa until now, and reveals that within the data they acquired from Kanou's lab, they found confirmation that one of his experiments was Kaneki from the steel bar incident. The two come to the conclusion that the lab was where Kanou first created human-made ghouls.
Shinohara next asks what Kuroiwa's true purpose for coming was, which he mentions that it's about the One-Eyed Owl. Kuroiwa shows Shinohara a laptop with a picture taken of the Owl from their battle against them at Aogiri's 11th Ward hideout. He then shows Shinohara a picture from 10 years ago of a similar looking Owl when the CCG forced the ghoul to go into hiding. Kuroiwa states that further investigation is needed, but states to Shinohara that he wonders if there are perhaps two different Owl ghouls out there.
Out of the house, Kaneki and Hinami are now walking down the street as Hinami states that its been a long time since the two of them went somewhere together. Due to the fear of many people around, Hinami asks to hold Kaneki's hand, which Kaneki accepts. They soon arrive at the Takatsuki sighing, which hasn't started yet. Looking at the empty signing table, Hinami asks what kind of person Takatsuki is, which Kaneki answers that he's only seen her taking interviews on television, but was seen to be a beautiful woman. Takatsuki then walks into the room, and apologizes for being late due to having overslept.
The signing goes on as Takatsuki receives much appreciation from the fans who approach her for an autograph or a picture. Eventually, Kaneki and Hinami are next to approach her and wonders if the two are a couple, which Kaneki answers that they aren't. Takatsuki next asks for Hinami to introduce herself, which she does, and then asks about the boy that is with her. Kaneki introduces himself as well, and shocks Takaksuki when he states that his white hair is his natural hair color. Kaneki reveals that he's read much of Takatsuki's work, and was able to figure out the mystery of her recent Hanged-man of Mcguffin book. Takatsuki is left impressed at Kaneki's intellect, but is soon informed by her nearby editor that she needs to move on to the next person. Kaneki thanks Takatsuki for their time as she bids the two farewell.
Walking out of the signing, Kaneki and Hinami head into the elevator discussing if meeting Takatsuki made Kaneki happy again, and if he possibly likes her, which Kaneki questions Hinami's way of thinking. Their elevator door closes as Hide can be seen popping out of the elevator door that was next to them.
Hide arrives at the signing, and approaches Takatsuki. He claims himself to be Kaneki in the hopes of getting him her autograph, which obviously grabs her attention. However, he begins to stumble, but is able to mention that he liked the story of the prisoner from the Hanged-man of Mcguffin. Hide asks why Takatsuki chose to make a story about a ghoul, which she answers that it was just something that she wanted to write. He then asks if there's an actual ghoul based on the story nearby, which Takatsuki answers no, but may have found a ray of hope today. It then switched to Kaneki and Hinami leaving the signing building; still discussing what they thought of Takatsuki.
At CCG, Amon is seen with Seidou, who informs Amon that Kanou's mansion is still under investigation. Amon thinks over what he's gathered up until now from the mansion's lab, and attempts to piece together his encounter with Kurona, the wall of kagune, Doctor Kanou, and the changes to the Eye-patch ghoul.
Seidou regrets not being there with Houji since Gourmet was confirmed to be at the mansion despite the ghoul being their target. Seidou also asks about Naki being sighted there, which Amon answers that his appearance made it obvious that Aogiri Tree was involved due to Naki's connection to Jason.
At this point, Akira enters the room to discuss the current investigations. Seidou jokes that Akira should still be resting since Naki beat her, but Akira answers that she treats her injury as just being bitten by a dog. The two continue to fight verbally as Amon steps in to stop the two from fighting, and to return to discussing their ghoul cases. Amon states that despite Shinohara being in rehab, they should continue their investigations on the Binge-eater, Gourmet, and Rabbit cases. Akira then informs the two that the investigators who examined the attacks from Black Rabbit were unrecgonizable, and couldn't be connected to any specific ghoul. Amon and Seidou conclude that they still haven't pieced together anything.
Finishing up, Seidou asks Amon to eat dinner with him, which Amon admits that he's getting hungry. Amon then asks Akira to come along, which, despite worrying that she still won't open up, states that she will come along as long as they choose to eat at the restaurant next door. Happy that she finally caved, Amon orders her to get ready.
At the restaurant, Seidou complains about how Suzuya didn't even bother to show up at the hospital for Shinohara's sake, which Amon admits to himself that he never really thought about it. Amon then asks Seidou how his work with his partner, Houji, is going, which he answers that despite only acting as his apprentice for the moment, Houji is a great man. He reveals Houji's achievement of taking on the Chinese ghoul group known as Akajita Ren, and that the experience allowed for him to become a Special Class investigator when he returned to Japan.
Seidou admits that he wishes to get promoted as quickly as possible in order to take down ghouls like Houji was able to do, but Akira interrupts by stating that promotion is not the goal a CCG investigator should be aiming for. Seidou yells if she has a problem with him wanted to get promoted in order to be helpful to others, which Akira answers that as long as you have the will to achieve something for those around you, then rank doesn't matter. Eating his food, Amon begs the both of them to eat a single meal without ending in a fight, which Seidou answers that its been like this since the school days between the two of them. Akira states that she's simply correcting his way of thinking, which annoys Seidou even further. The two continue to fight as Amon thinks to himself how he should handle his two juniors.
Some time passes, and Seidou is now completely drunk. Amon wishes to himself that he should have stopped Seidou from drinking earlier as Akira looks to him, and asks if he will hear something she has to say. She then turns to Seidou and takes advantage of his drunkenness by stating that his droopy eyes are unpleasant to look at, and come off like he's picking a fight with her. Seidou reacts by claiming that he will get more achievements to finally stop being the number two beneath her, and that he will beat anyone who gets in the way of his promotion.
At this point, Seidou gets a call, but claims the person to be a bastard for interrupting him. The caller on the other end turns out to be Houji, who accepts being called bastard, and orders his partner to return to the office to clean up reports that were leaked out. He adds to do it only after Seidou has cooled off from the alcohol. Beginning to sweat, Seidou realizes he screwed up, and heads off to work.
Amon watches the scared Seidou leave the restaurant, and regrets not taking better care of him. He then looks over to Akira, and asks if she happens to be drunk too, which she tries to deny. Amon next asks if Akira is similar to Seidou regarding the importance of getting promoted, which she answers by bringing up her father, Kureo. That despite all his achievements, he stopped at First-class Investigator. She brings up how his colleagues would make fun of him under the belief that being a crazy quinque maniac kept him from getting promoted. However, Akira claims that his efforts to watch over her kept him from getting promoted further to one day get revenge on the One-Eyed ghoul that killed the mother of their family. The drunk Akira confesses that if she was stronger, she could have been of use to her father.
Amon continues to listen to the story as Akira states that Kureo often talked highly of him as his wonderful subordinate. However, she reveals that she's been confused about Amon's recent actions, such as not fighting alongside Kureo at the time of his death against the White Rabbit, or why he chose not to chase after the Centipede ghoul in Kanou's mansion. She states that Amon killed her father, and that she actually hates him.
Thinking it over, Amon states that he still sees what happened in his dreams. That if he had more power, he could have saved Kureo Mado. Amon admits that his weakness caused Kureo's death, but also affected him to wanting to protect those he, and those Kureo cares about, even if that person comes to hate him. Akira accepts his answer, but is finally overtaken by the alcohol, and falls unconscious.
Elsewhere, Kaneki is seen arriving at Uta's mask shop. The two greet one another as Uta asks if Kaneki broke his mask. However, Kaneki reveals that he has come seeking advice as he has been left in a state of confusion after what Kanou told him about Yoshimura being the creator of Aogiri Tree. That he can't become stronger knowing that the place he wanted to protect, Anteiku, may be an enemy as well. Kaneki states that he's hoping Uta could shed some light on Yoshimura, and Yomo, who arrived at Kanou's mansion to save Rize.
Uta answers that he can't reveal customer secrets, but because the person asking is Kaneki, he will make an exception. The reason being that Kaneki is someone who people can't take their eye off of due to always walking into danger, and that his actions could end up being a key role for others. Uta states that he doesn't know much about Yoshimura other than his work at Anteiku, but asks if Kaneki wants to know about Yomo's past.
Back to Amon's side, he is currently carrying a drunk Akira back to her apartment. Entering Akira's home, Amon is greeted by her cat and notices an old picture of Kureo with her daugher being accepted into CCG. Putting Akira on her bed, Amon states that he will contact her tomorrow, and begins to walk away. However, Akira grabs Amon's hand in the hopes that he will stick around.
Some time passes as Amon continues to sit by watching Akira rest on her bed. Due to the heat, Akira starts to take off her pants, which forces Amon to try to get up to leave again. However, Amon notices Akira not feeling well, and brings her medicine to calm her down. Amon decides that it would be best for the group to have a self-reflection meeting the next day, and tries to leave once more. However, Akira grabs him from behind, and begs him not to go.
Amon begins to sweat at the situation he's been put in only to suddenly hear Akira call him father. Amon is left dismayed at the sight, and remembers how Akira is someone that had been left alone with only a cat for company. He deduces that Akira had been hiding her loneliness for her father's sake and decides to stick around with her as she rests; doing hundreds of push-ups as punishment for not realizing her pain. Morning comes, and Akira wakes up only to see an exhausted Amon next to her bed. Glaring at him, Akira asks what he is doing, which Amon answers that he had been performing push-ups all night.
Moments later, Amon is now sitting at a coffee table listening to Akira go through his past work credentials up until this point; but defines him as a perverted investigator due to his current actions in her home. Amon is left sweating in fear, but Akira admits that she noticed the nearby medicine bottles, and such, that Amon looked after her during the night, and had made him breakfast as a thank you. Akira apologizes for being troublesome last night, which Amon answers that she just shouldn't drink alcohol anymore.
Back to Kaneki, Uta begins to tell his story of how he used to manage the 4th Ward. He reveals that he was only in the position, because no other ghoul could stand up to him at the time. However, he would one day come across the ghoul known as Renji Yomo. The two would battle one another time and time again, and Uta's interest in the ghoul continued to rise over time. One day, the two are seen sitting atop a building. Uta asks Yomo if he enjoys high places as if he was a bird, which annoys Yomo. Uta then introduces himself, as does Yomo, who doesn't wish to be nicknamed after a bird.
Looking down at the city, Uta asks why Yomo has been on a rampage, which he answers that it was all for his goal to become strong. Uta is left confused stating that Yomo is already strong, and asks if his rampage was some kind of training. Uta then laughs at his own statement, which annoys Yomo. Time goes on, and Uta and Yomo continued to warm up with one another, even becoming a member of Uta's 4th Ward gang. However it was also around this time that CCG Investigators, Arima and Hirako, had arrived in the 4th Ward looking for a specific ghoul.
At a later time in Uta's story, his 4th Ward gang is now hunting CCG doves. Itori is seen seducing two random investigators as Uta, and a giant ghoul, come in to kill them both. After the attack, Uta's group returns to their 4th Ward hideout, and talk about their current situation. One questions if the recent increase of investigators is a sign that the CCG has arrived to crush the 4th Ward, which Uta adds that their main problem has been the guy that has been commanding them.
Yomo, who was listening nearby, states that the commander is a Special-class Investigator named Arima, which Uta finds impressive considering how young he looks. Yomo then states that he will be the one that kills Arima, which amazes Uta to see him so uncharacteristically motivated. Uta asks what his reason for fighting Arima is, but Yomo remained silent.
Later on, Yomo and Uta are seen alone atop a building where Yomo chooses to explain his reason to fight Arima. He reveals to Uta that he once had an older sister in his life that Yomo looked up to, and viewed as a person much stronger than him. However, she was one day killed by Arima. Uta understands the situation, and states that he will help him fight Arima since they are friends, and because he is currently in the 4th Ward anyway. At another far away rooftop, two people can be seen watching over Yomo's actions.
Some time later, Yomo is seen climbing a radio tower with Uta and his gang. Uta hands Yomo a ghoul mask, which Uta reveals that its been a hobby of his, and has been considering to retire as the 4th Ward leader to begin a business in mask making. The ghouls stand atop the radio tower ready to begin their strike against the CCG.
Moments after, Investigators can be seen walking down one of the 4th Ward roads as Uta's ghouls appear, and surround the CCG doves. Preparing their quinques, the lead investigator states that they are being under-estimated due to being attacked for not having Arima with them, and orders the unit to go after the ghoul leader. Uta questions if he's become famous, but is greeted by Arima's partner, Hirako, as his opponent. The other investigators worry about Hirako not being strong enough, as he begins his fight with Uta.
Dodging Hirako's initial swings, Uta admits that the man has some skill, but is too easy to read due to his repetitive movements. Uta goes in for the deciding blow, but is interrupted by the arrival of Arima who breaks the two apart. Arima goes about counting the dead bodies that Uta's gang has already killed as Yomo becomes enraged at the sight of Arima. Yomo activates his kagune claiming that he will never forgive Arima, and launches a massive ranged attack towards the investigator. However, Arima remains still, and activates his quinque to deflect the attack.
The surrounding ghouls and investigators stand by in amazement as Arima states that he recognizes the kagune used by Yomo due to having fought his older sister. Arima deduces that Yomo is after him out of revenge for her, and activates a second kagune to shoot a ranged lightning attack at Yomo, who quickly dodges it. Arima notes Yomo's incredible speed as he watches the ghoul head towards him for a close strike. At that point, he calls for Hirako who comes in, and slashes Yomo across the chest.
Yomo falls as Arima calls out his partner for being marginally late, which Hirako apologizes for. Seeing Yomo lying on the ground, Uta realizes that the fight is over, and orders his gang to retreat. Yomo continues to yell to Arima to give his sister back. However, before Arima could perform his next action, a cloaked ghoul appears between the two of them. Arima greets the cloaked person, but then launches a ranged electric attack. Dodging the attack, the cloaked person then grabs Yomo, and escapes away from the battlefield. Uta's gang question who the ghoul was as they take advantage of the confusion to retreat.
Uta completes his story to Kaneki by stating that the appearance of the ghoul who rescued Yomo had caused the CCG to loosen their grip on the 4th Ward. Kaneki figured that the ghoul had to be Yoshimura, which Uta confirms to be the truth. Uta describes how after the rescue, Yoshimura had taken Yomo in, and despite still wanting to get stronger originally to get revenge for his sister, he gradually changed over time working at Anteiku.
Kaneki smiles at the thought that Yomo was able to move on, which Uta then points Kaneki to look at his neck tattoo. Kaneki doesn't understand the writing, which Uta answers that its a saying written in greek; I cannot live with you, nor without you. Uta explains that mutual understanding is rough due to everyone thinking differently, and asks Kaneki what he wants to do this very moment. Kaneki answers that his next destination will be to talk to Yomo, which Uta states that it will do Kaneki good to hear his story. Kaneki thanks Uta for his time, and leaves the mask store.
At Kaneki's hideout, Hinami is seen reading a book as Tsukiyama arrives. She informs him that Kaneki isn't around, which causes Tsukiyama to ask if she wants to go have tea with him in Kaneki's place. Hinami answers him by stating that Kaneki told her not to go outside, but Tsukiyama informs her that she'll be safe as long as she sticks near him. Moments later, Tsukiyama brings Hinami to a tea restaurant, and states it to be nostalgic knowing that he had been here with Kaneki once before. Hinami states that Kaneki looks to be in pain all the time these days, which Tsukiyama agrees that he's been thinking the same thing.
Sitting down to order their tea, Tsukiyama states that it is their job to try to cheer up Kaneki. Hinami answers that she's been useless so far, but Tsukiyama tells her that Hinami's very existence has allowed for Kaneki to keep going forward. Tsukiyama then states that they will work together to return Kaneki to the dolce man he used to be, which confuses Hinami as to what dolce means. Tsukiyama then heads off to the bathroom, and pulls out the handkerchief with Kaneki's blood on it to sniff once more.
While waiting for Tsukiyama to return, Hinami is greeted by Takatsuki, who states that this tea shop is one of her hot spots to think up new book material. Takatsuki asks Hinami is she is with Kaneki today, but is told that she is currently with someone else, which Takatsuki jokes that Hinami has become a popular girl. Seeing Hinami with her hands together, Takatsuki asks if she has been having some recent troubles. Hinami is confused by the question, but Takatsuki answers that she caught onto Hinami's habit of always joining her hands when she's hiding something.
Takatsuki asks for Hinami to tell the author what's troubling her, which Hinami answers that she's feeling down for not being able to help Kaneki despite being in obvious pain. Takatsuki answers that there is nothing Hinami can do for him since Kaneki has been shaped into a person that is frightened of being alone despite looking strong on the outside. Takatsuki apologizes about her words being too harsh, but then states that Hinami won't be able to save Kaneki the way she is currently. Hinami agrees with the author's answer, and is given a card with Takatsuki's contact information in case she needs advice on other problems. Offering Hinami to eat a rice cake, Hinami asks why Takatsuki is choosing to help her, which the author answers that she is treating this as a half-interview, and that their little chat could lead to some possible material for her.
Getting up to head off for her next destination, Takatsuki leaves Hinami with a few parting words; that she was someone just like Hinami who, at times, had gotten stuck on certain problems that she struggled to find a solution for. She reminds Hinami to contact her, and leaves the tea shop. Tsukiyama returns to the table, and apologizes for being gone a long time, which doesn't seem to bother Hinami.
At CCG, the 20th Ward team is informed that Shinohara will be able to return to the group by next week, which delights everyone. Houji asks about Suzuya's whereabouts, which Amon answers that he was last seen at a zoo. Seidou states that Suzuya is acting like a little kid hanging out at a zoo, but is told by Akira that Suzuya instincts are correct since ghouls could possibly go after human families that just wish to have a fun time seeing zoo animals. Amon orders the group to return to the investigation, and asks Akira to hand him the data on Black Rabbit they've collected.
Akira apologizes, and shows Amon a book with sticky notes pointing out the Black Rabbit data he should pay attention to. She then remembers that it's almost time for her meeting with Dr. Chigyou, and asks Amon to have lunch with her, which annoys Amon that he's being ordered around by his subordinate. Looking at the two, Seidou notes how the relationship between Amon and Akira has changed, which Houji points out that Amon is currently 27 years of age. Seidou is confused by Houji's statement, but is informed that there is no meaning to it.
At the CCG cafeteria, Amon and Akira have already ordered their food, which Akira notes that Amon has gone for a mild tasting lunch once more. Amon answers that he doesn't like spicy food, which causes Akira to shove a spoon of her spicy food into Amon's mouth; causing him to beg for water, and complain towards his subordinate. Akira answers that it will help his metabolism if Amon slowly gets used to eating spicy foods, which causes Amon to remember back to Kureo performing a similar stunt when they ate with one another in the past. The thought has Amon make an annoyed face, which causes Akira to break down in laughter. Amon orders Akira not to make fun of her boss, but not before Amon notices that Akira has shown him another side of her personality.
Walking down a hallway at CCG, Akira informs Amon that Black Rabbit was recently spotted at a location outside his normal 7th Ward hunting area. Akira questions if the ghoul has been testing the strength of the investigators, but are soon interrupted by a nearby commotion. Amon asks one of the nearby investigators if something happened, and is informed that a famous information provider has come before them. Looking at a nearby chair, Amon and Akira realize that Takatsuki has arrived at CCG. Holding a camera, Takatsuki asks a nearby investigator if she can take a picture, but is told that she isn't allowed.
Seeing Takatsuki before him, Amon is told more information by the nearby folk of how she is a famous writer, and one of the greatest talents in the literary world. Amon asks what the information is she has brought before them, and is told that she knows of an underground facility outside of Tokyo. However, she will only tell the more detailed information to a ghoul investigator. Amon wonders if what Takatsuki is referring to was Kanou's lab, but soon realizes that Akira has taken his car key due to needing to meet with Dr. Chigyou; leaving Amon alone with Takatsuki.
Walking towards her, Amon and Takatsuki introduce themselves as Amon asks the writer to follow him to a reception room in order to hear her story. They approach the scan gate, which he explains to Takatsuki that it is a cell-test to make sure that ghouls don't infiltrate the CCG. Takatsuki walks through the gate asking if any ghouls have ever made it through, which Amon answers that the chances aren't zero.
Sitting down, Amon is about to ask about the facility she mentioned, but Takatsuki interrupts, and states that in exchange for her information, she wishes for an interview with a ghoul investigator. Amon answers that it's impossible for him to give information, but Takatsuki states that she is fine if Amon just gives him stuff about his casual life. Takatsuki begins to tell what she knows, and informs Amon about the Sphinx Trading Company; a company owned by the person who controlled the facility she mentioned. As Takatsuki explains, an acquaintance of hers had learned that the Sphinx Trading Company has been stocking up on some unusual things. She begins to reveal that it was something related to a ghoul, but switches to asking what Amon ate today.
Amon figures that Takatsuki is making fun of him, and asks her to continue the story. However, Takatsuki states that its required for her next work. Amon goes along, and answers that he ate curry today, but asks Takatsuki to save questions this low level for after their meeting. Takatsuki promises to do that and continues on with her story.
As Takatsuki explains, the Sphinx Trading Company was handling a type of solution; bottles of liquid that contained dissolved ghoul parts. Amon figures that what she's referring to is a liquid used to make the CCG's quinques and rc suppressants. Takatsuki next adds that the bottles were sold to the CCG, which Amon struggles to piece together.
Continuing, Takatsuki wonders if the CCG had a close relationship to the president of the Sphinx Trading Company, but also reveals that the underground facility wasn't owned by the Sphinx president; actually being owned by the CCG, which shocks Amon. She also reveals to Amon that the president of the Sphinx Trading Company was Nanao Yasuhisa. Afterwards, Takatsuki is allowed to leave the CCG Headquarters reading over the notes that Amon provided her.
Walking down the street, Amon thinks over the information he was just given; knowing that Nanao was the deceased father of the One-Eyed Ghoul sisters, Nashiro and Kurona. Putting together that Kanou's facility had actually been owned by the CCG, and that Nanao was killed despite supposedly being under the the CCG's protection, Amon comes to the conclusion that Nanao must have been erased. Amon begins to question if the CCG as a whole had been performing experiments to turn humans into ghouls, and figures that Kanou alone wouldn't be enough to control the facility beneath his mansion. Amon next starts to fear that the pieces have started to fall into place; that the CCG's reason for existing would be overturned if there truly was a conspiracy behind it all. Annoyed, Amon wishes that he got Takatsuki to reveal the source of the information, and wonders if there is anyone he could trust to provide this information to.
At this point, Amon receives a call from Akira, who notices right away that Amon sounded gloomy. Amon thinks over what to say, but lies to Akira that Takatsuki was just asking questions related to her next book. Amon leaves off by stating that he is heading over to her location now, but thinks to himself that he shouldn't tell anyone about what he put together until he has proof. Walking down the street, Amon comes across a store selling toy cats; reminding him of Akira's cat.
At another location, Kaneki is seen arriving at Yomo's place; revealed to be a shipping container. Yomo asks how Kaneki found out about his location, and is told that Uta had told him. Yomo asks what is bothering Kaneki, which the boy reveals that he is confused at the moment, and many questions related to Yomo's appearance at Kanou's lab to save Rize, if Yoshimura was trustworthy, as well as the secrets behind Aogiri Tree. Kaneki explains that everything he has been able to accomplish until now has been thanks to Rize's kagune, and wishes to see her. However, Yomo tells Kaneki to go home, as seeing Rize in her current state would not be good for him.
Kaneki becomes enraged; asking Yomo what actually is good for him since everyone's failed to help him, as well as hiding information from him that may be important. However, Kaneki suddenly hears a noise, which he assumes to be from Rize. Running out of Yomo's home, Kaneki opens a nearby shipping container, and sees a weakened, and restrained, Rize Kamishiro within it.
Looking upon Rize, Kaneki asks if Rize remembers her. However, she begins to scream, and struggle in place. Kaneki looks on in horror, as Rize begs the need to eat something, and escape from a dark location; calling for her father due to being scared. Yomo enters the container, and throws a chunk of human meat before her, which she begins to eat. Yomo explains to Kaneki that she's been left in an extremely starved state to the point that she can't recognize anyone, but has been providing her just enough food to survive, which is also not enough to the point where she will have enough strength to break loose.
Shocked at the pathetic state Rize's been left in, Kaneki falls to his knees, and begins to talk to her. He brings up how ever since she turned him into a ghoul, he had been through a lot of different experiences. However, despite the hardships brought upon him, he couldn't bring himself to hate Rize. He begs Rize to properly look in his direction, which Yomo asks if this was the kind of reunion Kaneki had imagined. Kaneki answers that the Rize he knew was a strong and confident independent being, which is why he ate her image during Yamori's torture. He tells Yomo of how his strength is nothing but an illusion if the Rize from before no longer exists, and that in the end, it just makes him come off as a normal, and weak human.
Yomo answers Kaneki that his thought process is mistaken. Yomo informs him that he has always kept watch over Kaneki's actions, and that everything Kaneki has accomplished until this point has been on his own strength. He tells Kaneki not to think of himself as a part of Rize, or to be fooled by what Kanou had told him; that the path Kaneki walks should always be his own. Yomo apologizes for having never explained everything to Kaneki properly, and asks for the two of them to sit down over a cup of coffee.
At Anteiku, Yoshimura is seen asking Touka about how her Kamii University exam preparations have been coming along. Touka answers that she's been doing ok, and that she's been studying to go up in biology in the hopes of learning more about the relationship between humans and ghouls. She then states that after college, she hopes to become a teacher; informing Yoshimura that she's taken a liking to school.
Touka is left worrying that her bad temper would be too rough on the students, but Yoshimura reassures her that being direct with people is an important quality of life. That learning to guide her anger the correct way would surely leave an impact on the people she's trying to teach. Thinking back on his own words, Yoshimura looks on; realizing that the café is out of coffee beans.
Moments later, Touka is seen walking down the street with Nishiki, who is complaining about being sent off by the manager for coffee beans. Touka informs him that only a specific type of coffee beans is good for Anteiku, which annoys Nishiki; claiming that he has things to do. Touka counters that she should be studying for the entrance exams, which Nishiki asks if she's finished looking over the notes he gave her. Touka orders him to hand over the next set of notes, which Nishiki replies that she shouldn't rush.
As they continue walking, the two of them come across Hinami and Tsukiyama. Touka and Nishiki are left annoyed at the appearance of Tsukiyama, who jokes that the two of them look like they are on a date despite Nishiki already having a girlfriend. Touka asks why he's alone with Hinami, which Tsukiyama answers that it isn't fair for Hinami to be a caged bird locked away at their hideout. Touka next asks if Kaneki knows about this, which Tsukiyama answers again that Kaneki has put his trust in him more than Touka and company. This angers Touka, but is stopped by Hinami who states that Tsukiyama has been treating her nicely, and that they've talked about how to cheer up Kaneki.
The two question what she means by cheering up Kaneki, which Tsukiyama answers that Kaneki has been worried about something, and that it's his, and Hinami's, right as Kaneki's friends to try to help him. Hinami is seen agreeing with Tssukiyama, which prompts Nishiki to remind her that she is currently with the Gourmet ghoul that is considered a major threat. Tsukiyama points out that they have no right to talk down to him as he is the only one that can provide Kaneki strength while Touka and Nishiki are off doing their own thing having done nothing for him. Unable to say anything back, Tsukiyama pushes Hinami along in order to leave as Touka and Nishiki return to doing the manager's task.
Touka and Nishiki are next seen buying coffee beans from an old man that seems to have known Yoshimura very well. Nishiki asks if Touka wants to follow him to Kamii University as an early preview of the school she's trying to get into, which Touka accepts. Walking around Kamii University, Nishiki provides Touka a tour of the school. Touka is surprised to find just how large college is compared to high school, but is suddenly left hanging by Nishiki, who claims that he has to be going now.
Touka continues to tour around Kamii University on her own, and begins to remember that Kaneki was once a student here. She notices the back of someone that looks like Kaneki when his hair used to be black, and walks him behind him to get his attention. The man (Nimura Furuta) turns around, and Touka, realizing it wasn't Kaneki, asks for the science building, which he points her in the right direction.
Walking along the university once more, Touka thinks over her recent actions, and comes across a poster of a missing person that shows Kaneki. Knowing that Kaneki can't return, Touka reaches out to pull the poster off the wall. However, Hide suddenly appears to put up posters up for the cultural festival, and notices Touka standing next to him.
Sitting at a nearby table, Hide and Touka being to chat over a cup of coffee. Touka explains that she is here to tour the college she wishes to apply for, and asks Hide if he's been able to find Kaneki. Hide answers that he hasn't, which Touka remembers that Kaneki is now considered to be a missing person. Touka next asks what kind of person Kaneki is, which Hide answers that he's always been the same person.
Hide tells Touka of their time in school together; of how Kaneki was always picked on to the point that it never bothered him, and that Hide would cause accidents just to keep the attention away from Kaneki. Hide describes how Kaneki had always put on a fake smile when it was obvious that the bullying was clearly bothering him, and remembers how he started to look incredibly lonely years later when Kaneki's mother died.
Touka next asks if Kaneki had no other family, which Hide answers that both his parents had passed away. Hide also tells of how he remembers Kaneki coming off as a good lead actor in a school play they once had, which surprises Touka. Hide then informs Touka that being with Kaneki all this time, it had always felt like he had been pretending to be someone else; putting up a mask to protect his true self that was in pain. Hide figures that the pain was what caused Kaneki to leave without notice as he begins to complain that Kaneki should have told him; his best friend.
Hide goes back to drinking his coffee as Touka remembers back to what Yoshimura told her regarding the need to open up with others. Touka states to Hide that everything is fine at the moment since they know that Kaneki is hiding out there somewhere, and that he is probably just reading his books like usual.
Hide gives off a smile, and points out to Touka how Kaneki has developed a habit; that he beings his hand up to his chin when he's hiding something. Hide asks to keep what he told her a secret form Kaneki, but orders her to get Kaneki to reveal everything if he happens to return to Anteiku.
At CCG, the Special Class Investigators are seen holding a meeting led by Director Yoshitoki Washuu; disappointed that they still haven't found anything on Aogiri Tree. The investigators point out the appearance of the half-kakujya ghoul, the Centipede, which Shinohara admits to be dangerous, and has most of the other investigators agreeing that he should be taken care of before his kakujya form becomes full. Kuroiwa next asks the Chairman how the Owl investigation is going, which Yoshitoki admits that it's all but confirmed that there are indeed two Owl ghouls.
At Anteiku, Yoshimura and Hoito are surprised to find Kaneki walking into the café. Taking in private, Yoshimura greets Kaneki, who gets straight to the point, and asks Yoshimura if the One-Eyed Owl King of Aogiri Tree is the manager's child. Hoito is seen struggling to keep up with the customer orders hoping for the manager to come back as Yoshimura can be heard repeating the words that Kaneki told him. Yoshimura asks who told him that, which Kaneki answers that he had been told by Yomo.
At an earlier time in Yomo's home, Yomo explains to Kaneki how Yoshimura is rumored to be the One-Eyed Owl, but is actually covering for the ghoul who is the true One-Eyed Owl. Yomo admits that he doesn't understand how Yoshimura can mimic the true Owl's movement and appearance, but that the answer will come to Kaneki due to his intellect. Yomo also admits that he doesn't have a proper answer to bring Rize her sanity back.
Returning to the present, Kaneki states that the information Yomo had given him was just more added to a large pile, and asks Yoshimura to tell him about how Aogiri Tree fits into it all. The manager begins to tell the story of Kuzen; a ghoul that ate both humans and his own kind. Yoshimura explains that as Kuzen's name spread, he had caught the attention of a powerful organization, and decided to join them; being given the role of the Cleaner that killed other organizations and ghouls that rivaled the organization he worked for. Yoshimura states that despite Kuzen now having an established life, he remained in solitude as the organization did not feel like a home to him.
Continuing the story, Yoshimura states that Kuzen often ordered coffee from a particular café, and was always served by a human waitress named Ukina. The two became friends, and learned a lot about one another over time, but Ukina one day witnesses Kuzen in his active ghoul state. Kuzen figured that his only option was to silence her, but to his surprise, is hugged by Ukina, who accepts Kuzen despite what he truly is. A relationship formed between the two, and one day, resulted with a baby. However, Kuzen informs Ukina that a ghoul baby wouldn't be able to survive without proper malnourishment.
One day, Kuzen walks in on Ukina, and notices that she had been devouring chunks of human meat to keep the baby alive. The baby is born one day, but Kuzen also discovers a notebook that reveals Ukina to being a journalist that was after the organization Kuzen had been a part of. The organization also finds out about their relationship, and Kuzen, who did not have the strength to rebel against them, was forced to take on one last job as the organization's Cleaner, and had to kill Ukina. Even in her final moments, Ukina didn't reject him.
Afterwards, Kuzen decided to drop off the baby at the 24th Ward; away from the organization's eyes, and leaving only a diary of Ukina's for the baby to remember Kuzen and Ukina down the line. As the child grew up, Kuzen found out that it had grown up to hate the world, and had gained notoriety as the One-Eyed Owl. Later on, the child ended up suffering a deadly wound trying to assault the CCG, and fearing that the organization would pursue the injured child, Kuzen replaced the child as the One-Eyed Owl.
With the story over, Kaneki realizes that Yoshimura was Kuzen. Yoshimura reminds Kaneki that the boy is still the only person that has a life in both worlds, and that there is still time for him to choose how to go about his life from now on. Yoshimura also asks that it would be good to help those that have also lost their way; including his child. Yoshimura then asks if Kaneki was finally at a point that he could return to Anteiku.
Moments later, Touka returns to Anteiku, who is told by Hoito that Kaneki was just here. Touka runs outside, and is able to catch up to Kaneki before he could disappear once more. Looking at one another, Touka thinks over what would make for a proper greeting, but is interrupted by Kaneki, who states that he had just talked to Yoshimura. Kaneki reveals to her that he had been asked to return to Anteiku, but that he is questioning if he should as it wouldn't help him with his true objective.
Touka asks what he means by that, which Kaneki answers that he wants to protect everyone. Mentioning Banjou's gang, Hinami, Hide, and even Touka, Kaneki states that he doesn't want to lose what he finds important to him, and that he continued to fight to make sure that nothing interfered with that world. Touka thinks it over, and realizes that Kaneki will be enduring endless battles against Aogiri, the CCG, and other enemies, to keep them safe.
Touka calls Kaneki out that there is no reason to protect those that aren't his to begin with. She explains that she sees Kaneki as someone that pretends to care about others to hide from the fear of being alone. That all he's actually aiming for is self-satisfaction. Kaneki asks if what Touka is saying means that she knows more about him than himself, which Touka answers yes. Kaneki states that it doesn't bother him as it would be better off for everyone if he continued to be alone. However, Touka walks toward Kaneki; having noticed that Kaneki put his hand up to his chin to reveal that he wasn't being honest with her, and actually wanted to be with everyone.
Touka throws a punch that was blocked by Kaneki, and yells at him not to mock her. Dodging another strike, Kaneki asks her to stop, but is told by Touka not to decide things on his own. Continuing to throw punches toward him, Touka states that Kaneki is an eyesore to look at as he can't even protect himself, and asks how such a person has the right to protect others. She then yells toward Kaneki that trash like him should stay out of Anteiku. Shocked for a moment at Touka's words, Kaneki takes a punch to the face that knocks him to the ground. Touka jumps on top of Kaneki and begins to pummel him. Remembering back to the happy black-haired boy that used to work at Anteiku, Touka begins to cry, and asks why Kaneki had to change into the person he is now. At this point, Touka gets up, and walks away; leaving Kaneki lying on the ground wondering the same question.
At this point, Kaneki returns to his hideout. Amongst Banjou's group, Hinami, and Tsukiyama, Kaneki tells his followers that he wishes to disband the team. Banjou asks what Kaneki means, which Kaneki apologizes for being a sudden announcement, and states that he wishes to return to Anteiku. Kaneki explains that after hearing Yoshimura's story, and his encounter with Touka, that he had been in the wrong, and that he can start anew at Anteiku to start moving on the correct path. Kaneki also adds that he will work there not as a waiter, but as a behind-the-scenes man similar to what Yomo's been assigned as. Kaneki then states that his next question is him being stubborn, but asks that the group follows him to Anteiku in order to continue being with everyone.
Banjou asks Kaneki not to say something stupid, and states that he will always follow behind Kaneki. Knowing that Banjou has decided to go, the gas mask siblings decide to follow, and Hinami agrees with the decision knowing that Kaneki will be returning to be with Touka. Tsukiyama walks forward asking if the Anteiku group will include him, and while Kaneki informs Tsukiyama that he still doesn't trust him, Kaneki admits that he's proven himself to be a valuable comrade, and wishes for Tsukiyama to continue being his sword. Despite knowing that it will be harder to try to pull anything around Anteiku, Tsukiyama kneels down before Kaneki, and accepts to continue serving him. Kaneki thanks the group for accepting his stubbornness, and wonders if Touka will actually let him come back.
At Touka's home, she remembers back to what Yoshimura told her about listening to others, and regrets the actions she just performed on Kaneki; figuring that because of her, he won't come back to Anteiku. Touka returns to studying for the entrance exams, and notices the rabbit keychain attached to her phone that had been given to her by Kaneki.
At CCG, Amon is seen giving Akria a key holder that looked similar to her cat. Akira teases Amon about not knowing that he was the type of guy to give others gifts, which Amon defends that he just happened to come across it. Akira confesses that this is the first gift she's received from someone that wasn't her father, and states that she will take good care of it. She also informs Amon that his quinque improvements have been completed, and that he should head out to retrieve it.
Outside CCG, Director Yoshitoki Washuu is seen talking with Commander Marude about the Owl investigation. Yoshitoki informs Marude that he will be returning to the front lines to command the CCG's next operation related to it, and asks Marude to serve as his Vice-Commander. Despite Marude feeling like he failed with the 11th Ward raid, Yoshitoki reassures him that he did everything that was expected of him, and that no one blames him for that. Upon hearing that Yoshitoki doesn't trust anyone else more in the main office, Marude accepts the offer.
At Anteiku, Hoito and Koma beg Yoshimura to tell them what he talked about privately with Kaneki. Yoshimura only reveals that he offered Kaneki the option to return to Anteiku, which excites Hoito and Koma; the former being a Kaneki fangirl while the latter sees him as a younger brother. However, Yoshimura questions if he will actually return considering that it's Kaneki's decision.
At CCG, Yoshitoki and Marude step toward Chairman Tsuneyoshi Washuu in order to get permission to launch their operation against the One-Eyed Owl; having discovered the ghoul's hideout. Tsuneyoshi asks about the location, which they reveal to be the 20th Ward's Anteiku Café.
Decision Arc Tropes
- A Day in the Limelight:
- The reader learns about some of Uta and Yomo's backstory.
- Yoshimura's backstory is also revealed.
- Breather Episode: The story arc serves as resting period after what went down within Kanou's mansion, and for what's to come with the following arc when Anteiku gets invaded by the CCG.
- The Cameo: Nimura Furuta briefly appears during Touka's tour of Kamii University.
- Government Conspiracy: Realizing that Nanao Yasuhisa's death while under the protection of the CCG (revealed to be the actual owner of Kanou's mansion) doesn't add up, Amon begins to piece together that there is more behind the CCG than just being an agency that protects the people from ghouls.
- Infodump: The story arc as a whole has a lot of exposition, and plot reveals, in order to set up for later story arcs.
- Killed Off for Real: Yomo's sister and Ukina.
- Ship Tease: Amon and Akira's relationship finally begins to truly take shape here.
