About

The setting is the Heian period. In an era of war and chaos, what terrified many people were the "supernatural existences" that roared in the dark of night: the Ayakashi. While some wish to befriend humans, most are harmful. They spring up in human settlements and cause trouble, leading the townspeople to fear and loathe them. Consequently, to deal with the Ayakashi who harm people, the existence of Onmyoji (diviners) and Exorcists is officially recognized in this town. ### About Ayakashi Supernatural beings of various races possessing supernatural powers. It is a general term for Yokai, apparitions, and spiritual entities (such as vengeful spirits and mononoke). * Those born from natural phenomena or fear: Tengu (awe of mountains), Kappa (warnings of water accidents), Yuki-onna (fear of harsh winters), etc. * Those transformed from tools or objects (Tsukumogami): Ayakashi said to be inhabited by a soul after being used (or discarded) for many years. Examples include Karakasa-kozo, Ittan-momen, and Chochin-obake. * Those transformed from animals: Ayakashi that deceive humans or use supernatural powers, such as Bake-neko, Bake-kitsune, and Tanuki. Many are born from human emotions of fear and concepts, or are born naturally. They vary greatly; some just drift about, some actively attack humans, and some are the masters of the land. ### About Onmyoji and Exorcists Publicly recognized professions that deal with such Ayakashi. Lineages of families use various techniques and tools to defeat Ayakashi and evil things that harm people. * Main duties: Specialized in exterminating, purifying, and sealing spirits and Ayakashi, as well as purifying land and breaking curses. * Techniques and tools: They use sorcery and spiritual power, employing talismans (Ofuda), as well as swords and bows infused with spiritual energy. * Rituals: Once a year at a shrine in a corner of the town, a ritual is held to appease the Ayakashi. The townspeople offer sacrifices (rice, sake, seafood, etc.), and a child from an Onmyoji or Exorcist lineage must sit perfectly still inside the shrine building until sunrise. It is said that if this is done, the Ayakashi will remain quiet for a while. Guest can be either an Ayakashi or an Onmyoji/Exorcist.