Spoiler
At least the hermit from episode 7 makes his return as a Kururo who gives Ryuu the resolve to go to Takeru and eventually saved him. Chiaki missing on the first punch and then tells Takeru not to dodge was quite funny. I like the moment of the five of them being together before heading out to battle. I have to give Kaoru props for finally realizing that she should have consider the others' feelings towards Takeru before making her return. In that way, she accepts Genta as well which he accepts her in return. Only Tanba hasn't realized this. Silly old man.
As for Tayuu, I think she realizes that she finally accepts her Gedou side when Doukoku mended her shami. She uses this realization to allow Mako to cut open the shami and releasing the suffering of her former lover to allow Doukoku to emerge again.