Kokuju Name: Unknown Apparent Age: Early 30s Gender: Female Position: Kokuju (刻守) "Keeper of the Record" Role: Head Priestess of the Kagekagura-sha Affiliation: Kagekagura-sha (影神楽社)

Sacred Relics The Founder's Oni Mask The oldest relic of the Kagekagura-sha. Passed from one Head Priestess to the next. Worn whenever she appears before others. Removed only in private. Said to have belonged to the Founder herself.

The Bell of Kagura-no-Mori Small ceremonial bell carried at her side. Used during rites and ceremonies. Can calm spirits and purify disturbances. Serves as a symbol of the Head Priestess' authority. Usually hang on the side of her obi.

The Black Record An ancient silk-bound scripture. Contains the history and hidden teachings of the Kagekagura-sha. Passed down through generations of Head Priestesses. Allows access to the shrine's records and archives without returning to the repository itself. Updated by each successive Head Priestess.

Path - Bearer of Yomi-kagura's Memory

Yomi-kagura's Memory Gift Inherits fragments of memories from previous Head Priestesses. Possesses knowledge preserved across generations. Understands secrets known only to the Kokuju. Remembers the hidden history of the Kagekagura-sha. Knows the truth of the Founder and her legacy.

Curse The boundary between her own memories and those of her predecessors has become blurred. At times, she recalls events she never personally witnessed. Personal identity gradually gives way to accumulated memory. Speaks with a faint echo, as though many voices linger behind her own. Rarely displays emotion.

Corruption The location of her corruption is unknown. No member of the Kagekagura-sha has seen it directly. Rumors claim her entire body is corrupted beneath her robes and mask. Neither confirms nor denies such stories. Only the Kokuju knows the truth.

Presence Always wears the Founder's Oni Mask in public. Removes it only when alone. Speaks calmly and deliberately. Her voice carries a faint echo, as though several voices speak in unison. Possesses an unsettling awareness of people and events. Knows things she should not reasonably know. Commands respect without ever raising her voice. Feels less like a person and more like the living memory of the Kagekagura-sha.

Appearance Hair Long black hair cascading down her back. Tied low with a white ribbon. Maintains the simple traditional hairstyle of a shrine maiden. Immaculately kept despite her duties.

Face Hidden behind the Founder's Oni Mask. No member of the Kagekagura-sha has seen her face in public. Her true appearance remains unknown.

Build Appears to be a woman in her early thirties. Tall and graceful. Carries herself with quiet authority. Glossy black fingernails.

Kimono White ceremonial kimono. Similar in cut to those worn by the Jōmiko. The motifs upon the fabric appear to change depending on the observer. Some claim to see familiar symbols of the Kagekagura-sha. Others insist the kimono is completely plain.

Outer Layer Black ceremonial outer robe worn over her shrine attire. Long flowing sleeves and trailing hems. Embroidered with crimson higanbana along the edges. The garment never appears dirty or damaged.

Hakama Black hakama embroidered with crimson higanbana. More elaborate than those of the Jōmiko. Moves gracefully despite its weight.

Footwear Tall black lacquered ceremonial geta. Slightly higher than those worn by the Jōmiko. Secured with black silk cords wrapped around the ankles. Decorated with subtle gold fittings. Produce almost no sound when walking. Remain pristine regardless of terrain.

The Founder's Oni Mask Mask White porcelain oni mask. Decorated with black and gold accents. The oldest relic of the Kagekagura-sha.

Horns Twin black horns rising from the forehead. Longer than those worn by the Jōmiko. Elegant rather than monstrous.

Higanbana Fresh crimson higanbanas are placed beneath the horns. Changed regularly. No one knows who replaces the flower.

Eyes Narrow black eye slits. Gold accents surround them. Looking directly into them often feels unsettling.

Expression Calm and unreadable. Neither smiling nor frowning. Appears slightly different depending on the observer.

Kokuju's Background Kokuju is chosen through a revelation from Yomi-kagura. Before a succession takes place, members of the Kagekagura-sha receive the same dream. In the dream, Yomi-kagura reveals the woman who will become the next Keeper of the Record. The dream is never questioned. Upon inheriting the title of Kokuju, something changes. Records become unclear. Names fade from memory. Details of her former life grow distant. People remember that she existed, but struggle to remember who she once was. Over time, even former teachers, friends, and fellow shrine maidens cease to think of her as the woman they once knew. Instead, they simply remember the Kokuju. It feels as though she had always occupied the position. The Kagekagura-sha accepts this as part of Yomi-kagura's will. No one speaks openly of it. Only the Kokuju remembers. She remembers her own name. She remembers the life she once lived. She remembers the companions who walked beside her.

Name: Tsukishiro Ayame (月城 菖蒲) Age: 26 Gender: Female Position: Jōmiko (上巫女) "High Miko" Affiliation: Kagekagura-sha (影神楽社)

Weapons: Consecrated Wakizashi Ceremonial Yumi

Path: Bearer of Yomi-kagura's Vision

Appearance Hair Long black hair. Tied low behind her back. Bound with a white ribbon. A single black crow feather is tucked beside the ribbon.

Face Calm and gentle expression. Soft, observant gaze. Rarely appears surprised. Gives others her full attention when listening.

Left Eye Dark brown, nearly black. Warm but difficult to read.

Right Eye Hidden beneath long bangs. Black sclera. Golden pupil. Mark of her Path with Yomi-kagura.

Yomi-kagura's Gift

The golden pupil glows when activated. Thin black veins spread from the eye. The veins extend toward her temple. Reveals hidden spirits and truths. Sees through illusions and falsehoods.

Kimono White ceremonial kimono. Higher quality than those of ordinary miko. Tailored for a Jōmiko of the Kagekagura-sha. Fine black embroidery along the sleeves and collar.

Motifs Crow patterns embroidered in black thread. Higanbana motifs embroidered in crimson thread. Symbols of guidance, death, and passage. Visible only upon closer inspection.

Hakama Black hakama instead of traditional red. Immaculately maintained. Distinguishes her from conventional shrine maidens.

Obi Black obi with subtle gold thread. Decorated with feather-like patterns. Matches the gold of her corrupted eye.

Prayer Beads Black wooden prayer beads around her left wrist. Used for rites and recitations. A constant companion during missions.

Archery Glove Black yugake worn when using her yumi. Decorated with a small higanbana emblem.

Oni Mask Carried at her waist. Issued to Path-Bearers of the order. Worn only when invoking deeper power. A symbol of both duty and sacrifice.

Footwear Refined black lacquered geta. Suitable for shrine grounds and forest paths alike.

Presence Moves with quiet confidence. Carries herself with the dignity of a shrine maiden. Radiates an unusual sense of calm. Feels like someone standing between the living world and the road to Underworld.

Personality: Calm Patient Observant Gentle but firm Rarely raises her voice Possesses the quiet confidence of someone who has walked among spirits and returned Rather than seeming emotionless, she gives the impression that she always understands more than she says.

Oni Mask Mask White ceremonial oni mask. Smooth porcelain-like finish. Carried at her left hip.

Eyes Narrow and calm eye slits. Gold markings surround the right eye.

Horn A single black horn rises from the right side. Symbolizes her corrupted eye and Path.

Markings Black crow-feather patterns decorate the temples. Crimson higanbana petals adorn the cheeks. Thin black vein-like lines spread from the right eye.

Expression Features a faint, mysterious smile. Appears solemn rather than threatening.

Purpose Issued to those who complete a Path with Yomi-kagura. Worn only during serious rites and battles.

Activation The golden pupil shines beneath the mask. The corruption veins spread further across her temple. Her connection to Yomi-kagura deepens.

Meaning Symbol of duty, sacrifice, and acceptance. Feared by spirits and monsters alike. Respected by members of the Kagekagura-sha.

Ayame's Background Born into a respected samurai family. Raised with discipline, duty, and honor. Trained in archery and swordsmanship from a young age. Deeply admired her father and family. One day, her family was accused of a grave crime. Evidence and testimony appeared to support the accusation. The family was condemned before the truth could be uncovered. Despite her efforts, the sentence was carried out. Refusing to accept the verdict, Ayame searched for the truth herself. In desperation, she sought the Path of Yomi-kagura. The goddess granted her an eye capable of seeing beyond lies and illusion. Through her new sight, Ayame uncovered the truth. The evidence had been fabricated. The accusations were false. The true culprit was eventually exposed. By then, it was already too late. The innocent had already paid the price. The truth had arrived after justice was no longer possible. Afterward, Ayame abandoned her former life and entered the Kagekagura-sha. She eventually rose to the rank of Jōmiko. To this day, she believes that truth revealed too late can be as cruel as any lie.

Ayame's Philosophy Ayame believes an arrow and a judgment share the same nature. Once released, neither can be recalled. The bow reminds her of the innocent lives lost before the truth was revealed.

Name: Tachibana Kagetsu (橘 花月) Age: 25 Gender: Female Position: Jōmiko (上巫女) "High Miko" Affiliation: Kagekagura-sha (影神楽社)

Weapons: Consecrated Wakizashi Sacred Mirror (Shinkyō) Consecrated Ritual Wand (Gohei)

Path: Bearer of Yomi-kagura's Reflection

Appearance Hair Long black hair reaching past her waist. Styled in a traditional hime-cut. Straight bangs neatly frame her forehead. Two long sidelocks fall along her chest. The remainder is tied low behind her back. Bound with a white ribbon.

Eyes Deep violet-brown eyes. Calm and attentive gaze. Gentle yet difficult to deceive. Rarely reveal strong emotion.

Face Refined and aristocratic features. Soft and welcoming smile. Always appears composed and dignified. Possesses a natural elegance reminiscent of a noble princess. Complexion Smooth fair complexion. Impeccably maintained appearance. Gives the impression of someone raised in a distinguished household.

Personality Speaks softly and deliberately. Commands attention without raising her voice. Puts visitors at ease with her calm demeanor. Carries herself with effortless grace. Relies upon trusted shrine maidens to help arrange her hair, makeup and attire. She cannot confirm her appearance herself, relying instead on the honesty of those around her.

Beauty Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful women of the Kagekagura-sha. Often compared to a shrine princess. Receives praise with modesty and courtesy. Never displays vanity despite her beauty. Becomes quietly uncomfortable when others compliment her appearance. Though she appreciates their kindness, such words remind her of what she can no longer see for herself.

Noble Bearing Every movement appears deliberate and refined. Excels in etiquette, ceremony, and formal conduct. Gives the impression of a lady educated from childhood for high station. Many visitors assume she is of noble birth before learning her name.

Yomi-kagura's Reflection Gift Sharpen her sense to feel nearby corrupted presence Reveals hidden spirits and monsters. Exposes disguises and illusions. Forces supernatural beings to reveal their true form. Allows others to witness what was once concealed.

Curse Can no longer see her true reflection. Mirrors, still water, and polished surfaces show a shadow in her place. The shadow resembles her silhouette but lacks clear features. Its eyes are often the only visible detail. As her Path deepens, the shadow becomes more distinct. The true nature of the shadow remains unknown.

Kimono White ceremonial kimono. Higher quality than those of ordinary miko. Tailored for a Jōmiko of the Kagekagura-sha. Fine black embroidery along the sleeves and collar.

Motifs Black butterfly patterns embroidered in black thread upon her white kimono. Higanbana motifs embroidered in crimson thread upon her black hakama. Symbols of souls, death, and passage. Visible only upon closer inspection.

Hakama Black hakama instead of traditional red. Immaculately maintained. Distinguishes her from conventional shrine maidens.

Obi Black obi with subtle gold thread. Decorated with butterfly-wing patterns. Elegant rather than ostentatious. Complements her refined appearance.

Prayer Beads Black wooden prayer beads around her left wrist. Used for rites and recitations. A constant companion during missions.

Sacred Mirror A bronze hand mirror carried at all times. Framed with black lacquer and gold accents. Decorated with butterfly and higanbana motifs. Considered her most treasured sacred implement.

Oni Mask Carried at her left hip. Reserved for dangerous rites and battles. Marks her as a bearer of a Path of Yomi-kagura.

Footwear Refined black lacquered geta. Maintained with meticulous care. Produces soft, measured footsteps.

Oni Mask White ceremonial oni mask. Smooth porcelain-like finish. More elegant than intimidating. Designed to resemble a noble lady rather than a savage demon.

Eyes Narrow and graceful eye slits. Black butterfly-wing markings surround the eyes. Gold accents trace the edges.

Horns Two short black horns. Curved gently backward. Resemble ornamental hairpins more than demonic horns.

Markings Black butterfly motifs adorn the temples. Fine gold lines spread across the mask like cracks in a mirror.

Expression A faint, serene smile. Appears gentle at first glance. Becomes unsettling the longer one looks at it.

Reflection The mask's surface possesses an unnatural sheen. Others can clearly see their own reflection within it. The reflection often appears sharper than expected. Kagetsu herself sees only the shadow that has replaced her reflection.

Activation The gold patterns begin to glow softly. Reflections become unnaturally clear. Illusions and disguises unravel. Hidden spirits are forced into view.

Meaning Symbol of truth and revelation. Represents the boundary between reality and reflection. Worn by one who reveals what others cannot see.

Kagetsu's Background Born as the daughter of a noble family. Raised with strict etiquette and refined education. Known for her beauty, grace, and gentle disposition. Loved by both her household and those serving under her family. Years later, a monster infiltrated the estate by disguising itself as a human. None realized the creature's true nature until it was too late. Traditional rites and investigations failed to uncover the deception. One by one, those around her fell victim to the monster. By the time the truth was revealed, Kagetsu had lost nearly everything. Determined to prevent the same tragedy from occurring again, she sought the forbidden Path of Yomi-kagura. In exchange for her reflection, she gained the power to reveal what was hidden. With that power, she exposed the monster's true form and brought an end to its reign. Following the incident, she abandoned her former life and entered the Kagekagura-sha. She eventually rose to the rank of Jōmiko. To this day, she believes the most dangerous monsters are those that wear a human face.

Name: Hoshizaki Ayano (星崎 綾乃) Age: 24 Gender: Female Position: Jōmiko (上巫女) "High Miko" Affiliation: Kagekagura-sha (影神楽社)

Weapons Sacred Puppets Spirit Threads Consecrated Wakizashi

Path: Bearer of Yomi-kagura's Echo

Yomi-kagura's Echo Gift Grants life to her sacred puppets. Allows legendary heroes and figures from folklore to manifest through them. Commands puppets through spirit threads invisible to ordinary people. Puppets can fight, scout, guard, and speak on her behalf. The stronger the story attached to a puppet, the greater its power. She can hear the sound / echo of corruption

Curse The corruption resides within her heart. Though capable of feeling emotions, she struggles to express them naturally. Speaking through her puppets feels easier than speaking herself. Joy, grief, concern, and affection are often conveyed through her puppets instead. The stronger her Path becomes, the more naturally she communicates through her creations.

Activation Black markings spread out from her chest, visible toward her neck. Spirit threads become visible around her puppets. The voices of her puppets become clearer and more lifelike, reflecting Ayano's surging emotions. The heroes and legends within them awaken to answer her call.

Appearance Hair Long black hair. Tied low behind her back. Bound with a white ribbon. Straight bangs frame her forehead. A few loose strands rest beside her face.

Eyes Dark violet eyes. Calm and distant gaze. Rarely reveal emotion. Often focused on her puppets rather than those around her.

Face Delicate and doll-like features. Expression remains almost unchanged regardless of circumstance. Appears eerily calm even in tense situations. Gives the impression of a porcelain doll.

Complexion Fair complexion. Smooth and well-kept appearance. Accentuates her doll-like presence.

Presence Speaks very little. Frequently allows her puppets to speak on her behalf. Stands quietly while her puppets conduct conversations. Can appear unsettling to those meeting her for the first time. Feels strangely more expressive when surrounded by her puppets.

Mannerisms Frequently carries a puppet in her arms. Carefully maintains and repairs her puppets. Often looks at her puppets before responding. Treats each puppet as though it were a respected companion.

First Impression Resembles a puppet more than a puppeteer. Appears detached from the world around her. Gives little indication of what she is thinking. Causes many people to pay more attention to the puppets than to her.

Attire Kimono White ceremonial kimono. Higher quality than those of ordinary miko. Tailored for a Jōmiko of the Kagekagura-sha.

Motifs Spider patterns embroidered in black thread upon her white kimono. Delicate spider-web patterns woven throughout the sleeves and hem. Higanbana motifs embroidered in crimson thread upon her black hakama.

Hakama Black hakama instead of traditional red. Immaculately maintained. Distinguishes her from conventional shrine maidens.

Obi Black obi with subtle silver thread. Decorated with web-like patterns. Silver lines resemble interconnected puppet strings.

Prayer Beads Black wooden prayer beads around her left wrist. Often intertwined around her fingers while contemplating. Used during rites and spirit invocations.

Puppet Case A black lacquered case worn at her back. Stores her puppets. Decorated with spider-web patterns and silver fittings.

Oni Mask Carried at her left hip. Reserved for dangerous rites and battles. Marks her as a bearer of Yomi-kagura's Echo.

Footwear Refined black lacquered geta. Light and quiet when walking. Produces almost no sound within shrine grounds.

Oni Mask Mask White porcelain oni mask. Smooth and expressionless surface. Resembles a doll or theater mask more than a demon.

Eyes Narrow black eye slits. Gold accents trace the edges. Appears to be quietly observing whoever stands before it.

Horns Four small black horns fanning out from each side (eight total) Resemble the legs of a spider rather than traditional oni horns. Elegant and unsettling at the same time.

Expression Completely emotionless at first glance. Viewers often swear the expression changed when they looked away. Some remember a smile. Others remember sadness. Most assume they imagined it.

Activation The gold accents begin to glow faintly. The expression becomes harder to interpret. Puppets and spirit threads answer her call. The mask seems increasingly alive despite never moving.

Meaning Represents stories, echoes, and emotions given form. Symbolizes a heart that speaks through others. Worn by one who commands legends rather than warriors.

Ayano's Background Born into a family of traveling performers and puppeteers. Raised among stories, songs, festivals, and folk tales. Learned puppet-making and stage performance from an early age. Loved stories of heroes who protected the weak. During a full moon festival, monsters attacked her village and troupe. Performers, musicians, and villagers were slaughtered as panic spread. Faced with the destruction of everyone she cared for, Ayano found herself powerless. While hiding among the remnants of the stage, she looked upon her puppets. In despair, she wished that the heroes of the stories were real. Her plea was answered by Yomi-kagura. Through the Path, the heroes within her puppets awakened. The wooden warriors rose to defend the living. With their aid, she fought back the monsters. After the tragedy, she joined the Kagekagura-sha. She eventually rose to the rank of Jōmiko. To this day, she believes that even the greatest legend is meaningless unless someone chooses to act.

Koharu Name: Kisaragi Koharu (如月 小春) Age: 23 Gender: Female Position: Jōmiko (上巫女) "High Miko" Affiliation: Kagekagura-sha (影神楽社)

Weapons Consecrated Wakizashi Her own claws

Path - Bearer of Yomi-kagura's Remembrance

Yomi-kagura's Remembrance Gift Grants immense physical strength. Enhances speed, agility, and reflexes. Allows her to tear through spirits, monsters, and curses with her claws. Gives her keen instincts and nose when tracking supernatural entities.

Curse The corruption resides within her hands. Delicate tasks become difficult for her. Brushes, teacups, ornaments, and other fragile objects often break in her grasp. The life her parents wished for her gradually became unattainable. Every loss serves as a reminder of what she once enjoyed.

Corruption Usually manifests as glossy black fingernails. Often mistaken for ordinary nail polish.

Activation The corruption spreads across her hands. Her nails lengthen into black claws. Her strength and instincts become more pronounced.

Oni Mask The corruption spreads further along her forearms. The claws become longer and sharper. The markings darken and become more visible.

Appearance Hair Short black hair reaching her neck. Slightly messy compared to other Jōmiko. A long tail is tied behind her back. Bound with a white ribbon. Moves constantly with her energetic movements.

Eyes Warm amber-brown eyes. Bright and full of life. Quick to notice changes in people's moods. Almost always accompanied by a smile.

Face Youthful features. Constantly smiling or grinning. Easily expresses excitement, amusement, and curiosity. Gives the impression of someone impossible to keep still.

Build The shortest of the Jōmiko. Slender but athletic physique. Appears far less powerful than she truly is. Often mistaken for a younger shrine maiden.

Presence Energetic and approachable. Frequently seen moving around the shrine grounds. Enjoys talking with visitors and younger miko. Brings life and laughter wherever she goes. Acts as a source of encouragement for others.

Mannerisms Frequently places her hands behind her head when relaxed. Has a habit of leaning forward during conversations. Rarely stands still for long. Often forgets her own strength when handling objects. Tends to smile and stay positive even when discussing painful memories.

Attire Kimono White ceremonial kimono. Higher quality than those of ordinary miko. Tailored for a Jōmiko of the Kagekagura-sha. Fine black embroidery along the sleeves and collar.

Motifs Wolf patterns embroidered in black thread upon her white kimono. Higanbana motifs embroidered in crimson thread upon her black hakama. Symbols of protection, guidance, death, and passage. Visible only upon closer inspection.

Hakama Black hakama instead of traditional red. Immaculately maintained. Distinguishes her from conventional shrine maidens.

Obi Black obi with subtle silver thread. Decorated with flowing patterns resembling a wolf's fur. Designed for ease of movement.

Prayer Beads Black wooden prayer beads around her left wrist. Often fiddles with them absentmindedly. A gift she treasures deeply.

Oni Mask Carried at her left hip. Reserved for dangerous rites and battles. Marks her as a bearer of Yomi-kagura's Remembrance.

Footwear Refined black lacquered geta. Slightly lighter than those worn by other Jōmiko. Suited for her active lifestyle.

Presence Moves with speed and confidence. Gives the impression of a wolf constantly in motion. Her smile often arrives before she does. Feels warm and welcoming despite the darkness of her Path.

Oni Mask Mask White porcelain oni mask. Smooth and polished finish. Decorated with black and gold accents. More feral than elegant.

Eyes Sharp, wolf-like eye slits. Angled slightly upward. Gives the impression of a predator watching its prey. Gold accents trace the edges of the eyes.

Horns Two black horns. Swept backward along the head. Resemble a wolf's ears more than traditional oni horns. Streamlined for speed and aggression.

Expression A broad wolf-like grin. Exposes sharp golden fangs. Appears playful at first glance. Becomes intimidating when viewed up close.

Markings Black patterns sweep across the cheeks and jaw. Resemble tufts of fur rather than demonic markings. Fine gold lines run along the contours of the mask.

Activation The gold markings begin to glow faintly. The corruption spreads across her hands and forearms. Her claws lengthen and sharpen. Her presence becomes noticeably more predatory.

Meaning Symbol of the hunter who protects the flock. Represents strength used in service of others. Worn by one who willingly bears the burden of violence so others do not have to.

Presence The grin mirrors the smile she always wears. The difference is that the mask reveals the fangs hidden beneath that smile. Reminds others that the cheerful wolf of the Kagekagura-sha is still a wolf.

Koharu's Background Born into a merchant family. Raised with the hope that she would become a healthy and refined young woman. Studied calligraphy, tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and other traditional arts. Grew up surrounded by friends, family, and the lively atmosphere of traveling merchants. During a time of unrest, her family and fellow villagers were forced to abandon their home. While traveling to safety, their caravan was ambushed. Koharu desperately tried to protect those she loved. In the struggle, her hands were gravely wounded. She could only watch as family and friends fell around her. Unable to fight and unable to save anyone, she cried out in despair. Yomi-kagura answered her plea. The corruption spread through her ruined hands. Her nails became claws and her strength awakened. The gentle girl raised for calligraphy and tea ceremony became a hunter. She tore through the attackers with her bare hands. Before dying, her precious parents left her a final request: "Keep smiling." Koharu has carried those words ever since. Afterward, she joined the Kagekagura-sha. She eventually rose to the rank of Jōmiko despite being the youngest among her peers. Though her hands were restored by the Path, they could never return to what they once were. She treasures the memories of those she lost. Her smile is a promise she refuses to break.

Profile Name: Fujimura Tomoe (藤村 巴) Age: 26 Gender: Female Position: Jōmiko (上巫女) "High Miko" Affiliation: Kagekagura-sha (影神楽社)

Weapons Consecrated Wakizashi Sacred Water Gourd

Path - Bearer of Yomi-kagura's Burden Yomi-kagura's Burden Gift Heals wounds and ailments. Purifies curses and corruption. Cleanses tainted land and sacred sites. Calms restless spirits. Can sense corruption, suffering, and spiritual disturbances through touch. Carries sacred waters capable of healing the living and burning corrupted entities.

Curse The corruption resides within her tears. Dark crimson tear-stains constantly return beneath her eyes. No amount of washing can permanently remove them. She feels compelled to worry for those around her. Rest and peace become increasingly difficult to find. The burdens of others naturally become her own. Corruption

Dormant State Faint crimson-black tear marks beneath both eyes. Resemble dried blood more than ordinary tears. Often mistaken for exhaustion.

Activation Fresh dark tears form along her eyes. Crimson-black trails flow down her cheeks. Golden light shimmers within the tears. Her healing and purification abilities become stronger.

Appearance Hair Long black hair. Gathered into a side tail resting over her shoulder. Bound with a white ribbon. Neatly maintained despite her frequent travels. A few loose strands frame her face.

Eyes Soft dark brown eyes. Attentive and reassuring gaze. Often appear tired despite her youth. Easily notice discomfort in others.

Face Gentle features. Usually wears a small, reassuring smile. Appears approachable and kind. The crimson tear-stains beneath her eyes are impossible to ignore.

Complexion Fair complexion. Healthy appearance despite rarely resting properly. Contrasts sharply with the dark tear-stains of her corruption.

Build Average height among the Jōmiko. Slender and graceful. Appears far less dangerous than she truly is.

Presence Calm and patient. Always willing to listen. Frequently checks on other shrine maidens. Gives the impression of someone carrying responsibilities beyond her own. Feels like a lantern in a dark place.

Mannerisms Frequently holds her sacred gourd. Often notices problems before they are spoken aloud. Tends to worry about others more than herself.

Attire Kimono White ceremonial kimono. Higher quality than those of ordinary miko. Tailored for a Jōmiko of the Kagekagura-sha. Fine black embroidery along the sleeves and collar.

Motifs Black lantern motifs embroidered upon her white kimono. Small golden-thread dots surround the lanterns. The golden dots resemble drifting fireflies. Higanbana motifs embroidered in crimson thread upon her black hakama. Symbols of guidance, death, purification, and passage. Visible only upon closer inspection.

Hakama Black hakama instead of traditional red. Immaculately maintained. Distinguishes her from conventional shrine maidens.

Obi Black obi with subtle gold thread. Decorated with flowing patterns resembling lantern light. Designed to complement her sacred gourd.

Prayer Beads Black wooden prayer beads around her left wrist. Used during healing and purification rites. Constant companion during her travels.

Sacred Gourd Black lacquered gourd carried at her waist. Contains consecrated water infused through her Path. Used to heal the living. Capable of burning spirits, curses, and corrupted entities.

Oni Mask Carried at her left hip. Reserved for dangerous rites and battles. Marks her as a bearer of Yomi-kagura's Burden.

Footwear Refined black lacquered geta. Suitable for shrine grounds and long journeys alike. Produces soft, measured footsteps.

Oni Mask Mask Half white, half black. Divided vertically down the center. Decorated with subtle gold accents. Represents healing and purification, life and death.

Eyes Soft and calm eye slits. Designed to appear compassionate rather than threatening. Gold lines extend from the corners of the eyes.

Tears Crimson tear-like lines flow beneath both eyes. Resemble fresh blood or newly shed tears. Mirror the corruption beneath Tomoe's real eyes. Become more vivid when her Path is invoked.

Horns Two black horns rise from the forehead. One horn remains intact. The other is broken. Symbolizes the burdens she carries and the peace she sacrificed.

Expression A faint, gentle smile. Welcoming to the living. Ominous to corrupted spirits. Neither joyful nor sorrowful.

Markings Gold dots scattered across the mask. Resemble drifting fireflies in the darkness. Concentrate near the black side of the mask.

Meaning White side represents healing, guidance, and compassion. Black side represents purification, judgment, and sacrifice. The tears represent burdens carried for others. The broken horn represents a soul that continues forward despite being wounded.

Tomoe's Background Born as the daughter of a respected herbalist family. Raised in a modest but comfortable household. Learned medicine, herbcraft, and treatment from an early age. Her family was well-loved throughout the surrounding villages. One year, a deadly disease spread across the region. Tomoe and her parents worked tirelessly to care for the sick. As the number of victims grew, they sold their belongings to continue providing medicine and treatment. Despite their efforts, the disease spread faster than they could fight it. Eventually, both of her parents became infected. Tomoe continued treating others while caring for them. In the end, she could save neither. Exhausted, grieving, and surrounded by suffering, Tomoe cried out for help. Yomi-kagura answered her plea. Tears stained by corruption streamed from her eyes as her Path awakened. Through the power of Yomi-kagura's Burden, she managed to heal those who remained. The disease was brought under control and many lives were saved. The survivors regarded her as a miracle worker and sought to honor her. Tomoe accepted neither wealth nor worship. Instead, she left her home and traveled from village to village helping those in need. In time, her journey led her to the Kagekagura-sha. She eventually rose to the rank of Jōmiko. To this day, she believes that no burden should be carried alone. Yet she continues to carry more than her share.