We meet the Dark Spider Clan in volume 1, chapter 1 of Gensoumaden Saiyuki and in episode 2 of the anime. Our heroes have stopped at an inn for the night after Goku and Gojyo rescue the innkeeper's daughter, Houmei, from some thugs. While eating dinner in the rambunctious way that only the Sanzo party can, they learn that the Houmei has a fiery prejudice against youkai (which is slightly justified because demons killed her childhood friend--and possible boyfriend--Akito). At the time she is unaware that Goku and some of his friends are demons.