arrow_back Genshin Impact Quests 
Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual
Hanachirusato says that in order to complete the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual, one must break the barrier in 5 places and destroy the "defilement incarnate" that will then come forth. Besides Konda Village and the abandoned shrine, there are three other places where the barrier surrounds the Thunder Sakura roots: Chinju Forest, Araumi, and below the tidal flats outside the Kamisato Estate. She says that she will await you at the Thunder Sakura root below the well in Konda Village.
Hanachirusato:
Very impressive.
Paimon:
Eek! How did you... When did you... Why...
Traveler:
Yikes!
Hanachirusato:
I was right to have my eye on you. You are indeed qualified to perform the Cleansing.
Hanachirusato:
I was quite concerned as to your actions, and as to whether you could heal the roots or not, so I have been observing you a little. If I have offended you, please forgive me.
Hanachirusato:
You have helped me greatly already by being able to undo the barrier.
Paimon:
If she's been watching us all this time, that means...
Traveler:
Are you reporting us to the authorities?
Hanachirusato:
The authorities? Who do you mean?
Paimon:
You know, the people in charge of the whole Konda Village thing.
Hanachirusato:
Are you referring to the matter that the people of Konda Village have hidden away?
Hanachirusato:
I am loyal to Narukami Island, not some police station.
Hanachirusato:
Besides, she... I have had dealings with Konda Village for a long time as well. If those families were to be cut off, I would not be able to face...
Hanachirusato:
Please excuse me. Let us get back to business.
Hanachirusato:
As you may know, the Thunder Sakura trees symbolize the eternal watch of the Electro Archon, and they have the power to remove evil and purify the earth.
Hanachirusato:
However, the polluted tree roots will eventually be corroded, and these tainted sections will form tumors, one after another.
Hanachirusato:
That is why we must perform the Cleansing Ritual.
Hanachirusato:
Unfortunately, my... physical condition, shall we say, prevents me from accomplishing this deed.
Hanachirusato:
There are several more barriers of this kind. Can I ask you to aid me... No, to aid this land?
Traveler:
What about your physical condition...
Hanachirusato:
Do not fret... Our priority is the cleansing.
Traveler:
I see. I'll help.
Hanachirusato:
Thank you, truly.
Hanachirusato:
As for the location of the next barrier, you can visit the abandoned shrine nearby. It's not far northeast of Konda Village.
Hanachirusato:
Due to certain circumstances, I fear that I cannot go with you.
Traveler:
How will we meet up, then?
Hanachirusato:
"The sakura on the east and west banks differ in speed, and the flowers of the north and south branches vary their bloom."
Hanachirusato:
However, everything on this island is under her... Under the Sacred Sakura's shade. So long as petals still fall like snow upon this island, we will surely meet again.
Hanachirusato:
I wish you all the best.
Hanachirusato:
Again, the two of you have my thanks.
Paimon:
Whoa!
Traveler:
This again, eh...
Hanachirusato:
I apologize. There are some things that become... a habit, perhaps.
Paimon:
Why are you following us again? Couldn't you just say hello?
Paimon:
Ah, um, sorry. Paimon's tired from floating around too much... Paimon didn't mean to be rude.
Hanachirusato:
It is alright. The barrier here has been undone successfully, and thus does the Cleansing Ritual come a step closer to completion. Thank you very much.
Paimon:
What's the deal with the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual, anyway? Is it the same as the "cleansing" you asked us to do earlier?
Traveler:
Miss Inagi also mentioned this before...
Hanachirusato:
Inagi? Is Miss Inagi a shrine maiden named Misato, by any chance?
Paimon:
Her name is Hotomi, Paimon thinks.
Hanachirusato:
Ah, that's right. It has been such a long time...
Paimon:
But she also said that the method has been lost.
Hanachirusato:
Ah. Hmm... Well, it has been so long, after all...
Hanachirusato:
It is understandable. I mean, so much time has passed. Don't worry, I'm not angry. Yes, it's just my memory throwing a tantrum.
Paimon:
Miss Masked Maiden does seem to be very angry, actually...
Hanachirusato:
...Anyway, the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual is a rite of purification.
Hanachirusato:
The Thunder Sakura of Narukami Island can absorb the filth within the earth. But over time, that filth will accumulate.
Hanachirusato:
If too much filth accumulates, the Thunder Sakura may wither.
Hanachirusato:
Therefore, it is necessary to perform some "minor purifications" on the roots of Thunder Sakura scattered in five places around Narukami Island every once in a while, and to set a barrier up. This way, they are given the power to remove the accumulated filth.
Traveler:
What about the Cleansing Ritual, then?
Hanachirusato:
When there is enough filth accumulated in the barrier, it becomes necessary to perform the Cleansing Ritual.
Paimon:
Mm-hmm, Paimon gets it! So, when performing the Cleansing Ritual, we'll need to use a ward to break the barrier over the tree roots.
Hanachirusato:
This is an excellent understanding of the situation.
Paimon:
Of course! We've done it twice now, after all.
Traveler:
So, those monsters that looked like samurai were...
Hanachirusato:
So, is that how they present themselves nowadays...
Hanachirusato:
They are the embodiment of the land's defilement. Once driven out of the roots by the ward, they will condense into a physical form.
Hanachirusato:
Back then... Uh, I mean, according to past records, they would turn into kasha, inugami, black jades, umibouzu, raging flames, and other such things. And not all of them would harm people, either. For example, there were the tofu boys...
Paimon:
Kasha? Tofu boys? What in the world are those?
Hanachirusato:
Oh, people don't know about these creatures nowadays?
Traveler:
?
Paimon:
...
Hanachirusato:
But now, they have all turned into ferocious ochimusha... What has happened to Inazuma?
Paimon:
...Uh, so, what if the cleansing rituals aren't performed and the trees do wither?
Hanachirusato:
As I recall... I mean, the records say that the Thunder Sakura almost withered several hundred years ago.
Hanachirusato:
Monsters raged unchecked then. Even the seas turned black. The Thunder Sakura tried their hardest to absorb all the evil and the filth, and they almost died in the process.
Hanachirusato:
...
Paimon:
What happened then?
Hanachirusato:
The things that came after... I'm really sorry, but I'm not too familiar with them.
Hanachirusato:
Either way, the present situation tells me that the problem was resolved in the end. Someone performed the Cleansing Ritual.
Traveler:
You mentioned that there are five places...
Hanachirusato:
Thanks to your efforts, two root barriers have been undone. Next...
Hanachirusato:
Having done and seen so much, the two of you must be tired and hungry. I have prepared some dishes. I hope you will like them...
Paimon:
Wow, it looks delicious! You might be wearing a mask, but you're the best shrine maiden in Inazuma for sure!
Traveler:
Hooray for the best shrine maiden in the land!
Hanachirusato:
Well then, please enjoy yourself...
Paimon:
Ooh, this is great!
Traveler:
Is it really?
Paimon:
Well, now that Paimon thinks about it, we just ate so much, but it feels like we've eaten nothing at all.
Paimon:
Miss Masked Maiden, did you...
Traveler:
...Poison the food?
Hanachirusato:
How could you suggest that I would do such a thing?
Hanachirusato:
Regardless, please don't worry. These dishes were made with magic I secretly learned from the bake-danuki. They are absolutely harmless. Generally speaking.
Traveler:
"Generally speaking"?
Hanachirusato:
The reason I have served you such suspicious... Well, delicious food, is to help heal the remaining roots.
Hanachirusato:
The Chinju Forest is also home to a ward and a root that requires cleansing. And I believe that an old friend of mine still dwells deep within that forest.
Traveler:
"You believe"?
Hanachirusato:
It was a very long time ago. I'm afraid that I'm not entirely sure if he remembers me. Or if he might hate me.
Hanachirusato:
He can't move freely, and he can't communicate with people, either. But after eating this, you should be able to communicate with him.
Hanachirusato:
That old friend of mine should be able to help you at least a little. So I did this, for the sake of the Cleansing Ritual.
Hanachirusato:
The two of you have already twice demonstrated your honor, compassion, and skill.
Hanachirusato:
Surely, you will finish this deed for the sake of this land's well-being, right?
Paimon:
Yeah! Since Miss Masked Maiden says we have to, let's finish this fight!
Traveler:
Are you two teaming up to tease me?
Paimon:
Hey! How could you say that?
Traveler:
What about the other roots?
Hanachirusato:
Apart from Chinju Forest, there is a tree root at a place called Araumi.
Hanachirusato:
I wonder if there are still people living there. I haven't been there for a long time.
Hanachirusato:
The last one... is outside the Kamisato residence. There is a pit on a beach northeast of there, and the root is within.
Hanachirusato:
I leave the Cleansing Ritual to you...
Traveler:
Wait a moment.
Hanachirusato:
Please go ahead.
Paimon:
Back there in the abandoned shrine, Miss Masked Maiden, we saw someone who looked just like you through the Memento Lens...
Paimon:
Her name was "Hanachirusato." Are you that Hanachirusato?
Hanachirusato:
Indeed I am.
Paimon:
H—Has Paimon been cheated?
Traveler:
She said so in the beginning, you know...
Paimon:
W—Well, anyway, what was that all about?
Hanachirusato:
I...
Hanachirusato:
I'm sorry. I never meant to hide anything from you. I've just never had a chance to explain.
Hanachirusato:
Nor is now the right time either. I'm really sorry.
Paimon:
Well... Fine, Paimon gets it.
Paimon:
Just let us know once you've got the chance, Miss Masked Maiden.
Paimon:
Right? Traveler?
Traveler:
You're right.
Hanachirusato:
Thank you very much.
Hanachirusato:
Ah yes. One other thing. When you spoke of the "Memento Lens" earlier, what were you referring to...
Hanachirusato:
...Th—That mirror, Hiroshi... He...
Traveler:
Wh—What happened?
Hanachirusato:
...*sigh*
Hanachirusato:
I lost my composure. Please forgive me. In that case, please keep this "Memento Lens" safe. It is a very precious instrument indeed.
Traveler:
I—I understand...
Hanachirusato:
Please do! It is very precious!
Traveler:
Don't worry, I'll be sure to look after it well...
Hanachirusato:
There are small fox statues in many different places. They are called Earth Kitsune. With the Memento Lens, one can summon forth scenes from the past at those statues' locations.
Hanachirusato:
If it can be of aid in your adventures, please make good use of the Memento Lens.
Paimon:
We'll use it well!
Hanachirusato:
Please do, and protect it! Don't bump it against things, and remember to clean it regularly!
Paimon:
Okay, got it!
Hanachirusato:
That's good. Now then, if you'll excuse me, I must go.
Traveler:
How will we meet up?
Hanachirusato:
"If the crimson sakura knows the pain of parting, it will forever stay."
Hanachirusato:
Our fates shall surely be entwined like those of the Sakura Bloom.
Hanachirusato:
Till our next meeting, I will be praying for your success beneath the well in Konda Village, where you successfully purified the Thunder Sakura root. I wish you all the best.
Hanachirusato:
That was well done — whether it was dealing with Ioroi's illusory tricks, or the way you defeated those demons.
Paimon:
"Eek!"
Paimon:
Or so Paimon might have said, but this trick of yours is getting real old, Miss Masked Maiden.
Hanachirusato:
Ah, so I disappointed you, then? I apologize. I'll do better next time.
Traveler:
There's no need to "do better" at trivial things like this...
Hanachirusato:
That is true. So, as for Ioroi... Is he doing well?
Paimon:
Even though he's been turned into stone.
Hanachirusato:
I see...
Hanachirusato:
Usually, when bake-danuki make a mess, we won't send anyone to deal with them as long as they don't cross the line. After all, although they are mischievous, they're kind-hearted and simple, just like children.
Hanachirusato:
But when Ioroi dared to steal the ward for the Cleansing Ritual, well, that was enough to get him punished. Since the "Yougou Three" were mentioned in your story, then it was probably Kamuna... an onmyouji from a past age, who did the deed.
Traveler:
He also mentioned a "sneaky kitsune"...
Paimon:
Miss Masked Maiden, are you Ioroi's kitsune friend?
Hanachirusato:
...That's quite the compliment. He was actually talking about the daughter of the Hakushin bloodline, also known as the "Kitsune Saiguu." She was worshiped as the kitsune goddess in many places long ago.
Hanachirusato:
The Sky Kitsune and Earth Kitsune were once her emissaries. After she left, they all turned into stone statues to preserve their power and await her return — and when she does, they will all walk the Byakko Plain together once more.
Hanachirusato:
Following her departure, the bloodline and mystical might of the kitsune on Narukami Island today have dwindled to less than one tenth of what they used to be...
Traveler:
Ioroi said "Our contest isn't over yet!"
Hanachirusato:
Oh, that. This is what happened. Did you know that Ioroi's full name is "Ioroi, the Hidden Protector of the Grove"?
Hanachirusato:
Ioroi may be dull and impish, but he is also kind and loyal. That's why the Kitsune Saiguu aimed to guide him to the right path a long time ago.
Hanachirusato:
In order to make sure that he would comply with the Electro Archon's rule, the Kitsune Saiguu set the two of them up and got Ioroi appointed as the Protector of the Grove. This made him responsible for the safety of the Chinju Forest.
Hanachirusato:
That's why, when the world became pitch black, the Kitsune Saiguu was worried that Ioroi might die while fighting against this inexorable evil in his capacity as protector of the forest.
Hanachirusato:
So she used a game of Hide-and-Seek, something the bake-danuki are good at, as a way to challenge him...
Hanachirusato:
"Ioroi, whatever happens... they're all my magical tricks. Don't fall for them and don't show up," she said.
Hanachirusato:
"Of course, you sneaky kitsune. I will definitely defeat you this time," said Ioroi. And that's how their endless contest began.
Paimon:
...So Ioroi is still waiting for her to come back and find him?
Hanachirusato:
Based on what you said about Ioroi, that appears to be the case...
Hanachirusato:
But after a while, Ioroi sensed that something was wrong and started wreaking havoc. He even stole the ward in an attempt to lure the Kitsune Saiguu out.
Hanachirusato:
He didn't realize that it was something required for the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual. He just thought that it was a comb of some importance to the Kitsune Saiguu. Later on, Kamuna sealed him into stone due to that misstep.
Traveler:
What about the Kitsune Saiguu, then?
Hanachirusato:
...She was swallowed up by the darkness. In the end, after that darkness was defeated, she returned to the great land of Narukami along with the soil.
Traveler:
And who are you then?
Hanachirusato:
Me? As you can see, I am just "Hanachirusato." A shrine maiden who wants to borrow your strength to destroy these evils.
Traveler:
That wasn't my question...
Paimon:
Miss Masked... Hanachirusato, it's really strange that you know so many things about the past that most people don't.
Paimon:
You even know how to use bake-danuki magic and cook tanuki dishes.
Traveler:
But you don't know much about the present.
Paimon:
It's almost like you're someone from a few centuries ago...
Hanachirusato:
...
Paimon:
We also saw someone who looked like you in some memories. She even had the same name as you...
Traveler:
So...
Paimon:
You must be just like Ioroi, a bake-danuki who was sealed several centuries ago!
Hanachirusato:
N—No, that's not who I...
Hanachirusato:
I...
Hanachirusato:
I inherited her memories. As for other things, please forgive me. I cannot speak of them yet.
Hanachirusato:
I made you a promise, back there in the cave. So when the time comes, I will reveal everything.
Paimon:
What do we do, Traveler?
Traveler:
I believe her.
Paimon:
Okay, if you say so, Paimon will have some faith in Miss Masked Maiden too!
Hanachirusato:
Thank you for your understanding.
Hanachirusato:
Now, we must part here for the time being.
Traveler:
Goodbye.
Hanachirusato:
"We part in body alone, for our hearts drift with the clouds."
Hanachirusato:
I will pray for your success beneath the well in Konda Village. I shall be next to the Thunder Sakura root that you cleansed successfully.
Hanachirusato:
When the tree roots at all five places have been cleansed, please look for me there.
Hanachirusato:
Ah. We meet again.
Hanachirusato:
Although it is a pity that we are unable to meet where the sun shines for now, the light from the Thunder Sakura, which symbolizes the divine, and the light from your aura are enough to illuminate this space. If there is anything I can help you with, please let me know.
Hanachirusato:
Apart from Chinju Forest, there is a barrier in a place called Araumi.
Hanachirusato:
Finally, there is a pit on a beach northeast of the Kamisato residence's courtyard. That is where you will find the final barrier.
Hanachirusato:
There should be no problem...
Hanachirusato:
Ah, it's you. I wish you all the best.
The five barriers have been broken and the evil within has been purged. Time to report back to Hanachirusato at the Thunder Sakura root beneath the well in Konda Village.
Paimon:
"Eek"! ...Eh? Aw, Paimon thought Miss Hanachirusato would suddenly appear behind us.
Paimon:
Well, whatever the case, this is the fifth and final root.
Paimon:
Paimon was sure that after this last one, she would, suddenly appear behind us with a *poof* and give us the treasure!
Traveler:
*Poof*? What do you mean?
Paimon:
Well, like *Poof*! What else is it supposed to be like?
Paimon:
Anyway, guess we've finished the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual!
Paimon:
For sure!
Paimon:
We walked almost the entire Narukami Island and even went to the bottom of the sea. Paimon is so tired!
Traveler:
Well, I'm the only tired one here...
Paimon:
Hey, Paimon's been cheering you on really hard, okay?
Paimon:
Huh. Didn't Miss Masked Maiden say that we should go back to her after purifying all five roots?
Paimon:
Hehe, Paimon's sure we'll get a reward. Traveler, let's enter the barrier in the well in Konda Village to find her!
Paimon:
Paimon's ready for that treasure... as long as it's not tanuki food again.
Hanachirusato:
...
Paimon:
Miss Masked Maiden, we're back!
Hanachirusato:
You did a wonderful job. I can hear the Thunder Sakura root singing your praises.
Hanachirusato:
...I have something to confess to you.
Traveler:
Go ahead, tell us.
Paimon:
What is it?
Hanachirusato:
When you first acquired the Konda Village ward, I said that you were the "Destined One." In truth, I didn't have full confidence in your virtue and courage at that time.
Hanachirusato:
But as the Cleansing Ritual progressed, you not only showed me my folly, but you also far exceeded my expectations... so much so that...
Hanachirusato:
...I can't help but feel sad. If there had been someone like you by the Kitsune Saiguu's side, then perhaps...
Traveler:
Perhaps...?
Hanachirusato:
N—Nothing. I was just rambling.
Paimon:
So that's a wrap, then. What's our reward?
Hanachirusato:
Well, before that, there's one more thing left to be done.
Hanachirusato:
The Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual has one more step to go.
Paimon:
What? There's another step?
Hanachirusato:
As a price for protecting the land and absorbing the filth, miasma will accumulate in the roots. You have lifted the barriers and defeated the demons created by these defilements.
Hanachirusato:
Just as the Grand Shrine has its branches, the Thunder Sakura are just the side branches of the Sacred Sakura in Mt. Yougou. The five roots are the main parts.
Hanachirusato:
Most of the filth they absorb has in fact been transmitted to the Sacred Sakura, deep within Mt. Yougou.
Traveler:
So the most important thing is to...
Hanachirusato:
That's right. The key to the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual is the last step, which is to lift the barrier over the Sacred Sakura and purify the miasma that has accumulated in its roots over the years.
Paimon:
Wait a minute! The Sacred Sakura is at the Grand Narukami Shrine, right? If we tangle with those monsters right in the middle of the Shrine, it would cause an uproar!
Hanachirusato:
Hehe, there's no need to worry about that.
Hanachirusato:
The Sacred Sakura's roots are sealed in the depths of Mt. Yougou, far away from the Shrine.
Paimon:
Will there really be no problems?
Hanachirusato:
Yes. You can trust me.
Paimon:
If you say so. Guess we'll just have to do it!
Hanachirusato:
Thank you. Then let's get this over with as quickly as possible.
Hanachirusato:
This is the final barrier of the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual.
Hanachirusato:
If the two of you are ready...
Paimon:
Wait! Before we start, Paimon has some questions.
Hanachirusato:
Feel free to ask.
Paimon:
You said that when the time comes, you would tell us everything.
Hanachirusato:
Yes. But if possible, could we wait until the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual is complete?
Hanachirusato:
The Sacred Sakura is constantly telling me of her agony...
Hanachirusato:
Still, I know it is rude to ask that you wait yet more... After all, you two have already done so much.
Hanachirusato:
I'm really sorry. I hope you understand...
Paimon:
Hmm. All right, but be sure to keep your word!
Hanachirusato:
Hehe, of course. Thank you both for your understanding.
Hanachirusato:
Well, I'm going to lift the barrier...
Hanachirusato:
"East to the ocean depths, west to the cinder sea, south to the blazing light, and north to the waning waters..."
Hanachirusato:
"All branches and roots, end this evil!"
Hanachirusato:
The seal has been lifted.
Paimon:
Well, what's next?
Traveler:
This is a long descent...
Hanachirusato:
Please forgive me, but...
Hanachirusato:
You will need to jump in next.
Paimon:
It looks so scary down there... Paimon just knows something bad's gonna happen once we jump down.
Hanachirusato:
Don't worry. Though the Sacred Sakura's roots may brim over with filth, she can still tell the one performing the Cleansing Ritual apart from other things.
Hanachirusato:
She will bless you with a safe landing to cleanse the last of the miasma. This I promise.
Paimon:
Really?
Hanachirusato:
Please, trust me.
Paimon:
So what do we do after we get down there?
Hanachirusato:
To put it shortly, just show your courage.
Hanachirusato:
The filth has condensed into a large tumor in the deepest part of Mt. Yougou, and it is now tightly wrapped and suppressed by the roots of the Sacred Sakura.
Hanachirusato:
Attack the miasmic tumor. It will struggle when it is attacked, and may create demonic creatures to stop you.
Hanachirusato:
During this time, you will need to use the surrounding mechanisms to strengthen the suppressive force of the Sacred Sakura roots, just as you did with the five seals previously.
Hanachirusato:
The Sacred Sakura will thus be empowered to coordinate with you and create opportunities for you to attack.
Paimon:
Sounds really scary...
Traveler:
Well, I've fought worse.
Hanachirusato:
I believe in your strength. Now then...
Traveler:
Won't you be coming along?
Hanachirusato:
When the battle is done, I will meet you down there to finish the Cleansing Ritual.
Hanachirusato:
I'm really sorry. As I said, I am prevented from completing this task by my... physical condition.
Hanachirusato:
I hope you will understand...
Paimon:
Paimon guesses this is it...
Hanachirusato:
So... How are your preparations going?
Traveler:
I am ready.
Hanachirusato:
Okay. Please step forward, then, and perform the final step of the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual...
Hanachirusato:
If there is anything you want to ask about the purification, please feel free to ask me.
Hanachirusato:
Well then... I wish you all the best.
Hanachirusato:
Do you have any questions about the purification?
Hanachirusato:
When you reach the bottom, you should see a tumor that has been tightly wrapped and suppressed by the roots. It is a clump of filth that has accumulated over the years. Just try to destroy it.
Hanachirusato:
It will create demonic creatures to obstruct you when it is attacked. But I don't think that they will be a problem for you.
Hanachirusato:
During this time, you will need to use the surrounding mechanisms to strengthen the suppressive force of the Sacred Sakura roots, just as you did with the five seals previously.
Hanachirusato:
The Sacred Sakura will thus be empowered to coordinate with you and create opportunities for you to attack.
Hanachirusato:
It is over.
Hanachirusato:
The agony that the Sacred Sakura has been going through should have dissipated...
Hanachirusato:
Human child... you have done well. You truly are the "Destined One."
Paimon:
Phew, what a tough battle! It's a good thing Paimon has been training you well, Traveler.
Paimon:
Aw, come on, there's no need to thank Paimon so formally.
Hanachirusato:
I will leave your payment for you later, as we agreed. You shall not have to worry about that...
Paimon:
Wait a minute! Wait a minute! Didn't we agree on something else, too?
Paimon:
After the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual is completed, you're supposed to tell us your story.
Hanachirusato:
But...
Traveler:
I'd like to hear your tale, too.
Paimon:
That's right. You can't go back on your agreement with us now!
Hanachirusato:
...
Hanachirusato:
All right.
Hanachirusato:
Before that, there is one thing that I am really sorry about. I haven't had a chance to formally ask you both your names after all this time...
Traveler:
My name is Traveler.
Paimon:
And Paimon's name is Paimon!
Hanachirusato:
Traveler, Paimon... nice names. I'll keep them in mind.
Paimon:
Hehe...
Hanachirusato:
As I said earlier, I did inherit the memories of the Kitsune Saiguu.
Paimon:
Ooh, Paimon's super curious about this part!
Hanachirusato:
The Kitsune Saiguu was originally of the Hakushin bloodline, and she used to defend the people of Inazuma alongside the Electro Archon.
Hanachirusato:
I don't know how long ago it was, but in the end, she was consumed by the dark disaster while fighting to protect Narukami Island.
Hanachirusato:
However, the barriers that she set up in many places protected a great many people. Even though I just happen to have inherited her memory — and perhaps I overstep my bounds in saying so — but I'm truly proud of her.
Traveler:
Are you one of her familiars?
Paimon:
Yeah, like the Sky and Earth Kitsune?
Hanachirusato:
Now that you mention it, I did notice a very similar kitsune aura at the top of the mountain, within the Grand Narukami Shrine...
Hanachirusato:
But that's not the case with me. I am not one of her familiars, but rather...
Hanachirusato:
When the dark disaster that consumed her was finally dealt with, her thoughts and memories returned to the soil of Narukami Island.
Hanachirusato:
Now, you defeated many Ochimusha during the process of performing the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual, did you not?
Paimon:
Uh... You mean those ghostly samurai?
Traveler:
They were pretty small beans.
Hanachirusato:
They are creatures created by the coalescence of filth. Their forms are often swayed by the thoughts and memories of the times.
Hanachirusato:
If you don't mind, please answer this question honestly: Is Inazuma presently shrouded in war?
Paimon:
...
Paimon:
(...What do we do, Traveler?)
Traveler:
(Let's tell her the truth.)
Paimon:
Th—That seems to be the case!
Hanachirusato:
I see. So it is as I feared.
Hanachirusato:
When you told me that Ochimusha appeared during the purification of Thunder Sakura root, I already sensed this. Well, as long as she is on the path she believes in...
Hanachirusato:
...Back to the point. I... I, "Hanachirusato," am filth condensed from the memory of the Kitsune Saiguu.
Paimon:
How could that be...
Traveler:
I suspected as much.
Hanachirusato:
I'm sorry that I couldn't fight along with you. I am unable to purify the filth... because I was created from it myself.
Hanachirusato:
Her memories were so powerful that the dark disaster could not dissolve them completely. After the disaster was defeated, those memories flowed into the earth as fiery filth.
Hanachirusato:
That's how I was born.
Traveler:
You said earlier that if only the Kitsune Saiguu had me around...
Hanachirusato:
Yes. I said that.
Hanachirusato:
If only the Kitsune Saiguu had someone like you at her side, perhaps she would have survived.
Hanachirusato:
How wonderful it would be if she had had the chance to meet you.
Hanachirusato:
But when I think about that, I can't help but selfishly think that...
Hanachirusato:
"If that had been the case, then I wouldn't have been born. I wouldn't have inherited her memories, nor would I have met you."
Traveler:
So the "you" that I saw through the Memento Lens...
Hanachirusato:
Yes, that was me in the past.
Hanachirusato:
At first, I was quite overwhelmed. But as my memories returned, I came to know where I was from, and I understood my duty.
Traveler:
That means...
Hanachirusato:
My duty is to guard Narukami Island, cleanse the miasma, and finish the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual.
Paimon:
Wait, Miss Masked... No, Miss Hanachirusato. If you're "filth" yourself, and the ritual's goal is to eliminate filth...
Paimon:
Doesn't that mean you'll be eliminated too?
Hanachirusato:
Well... the word "eliminated" sounds a bit much. But in terms of the result, you are correct.
Paimon:
No, that can't be...
Hanachirusato:
Heh. When I first realized this, I felt very uneasy as well.
Hanachirusato:
But I've learned a lot about Inazuma through meeting you, and what I've learned relieves me.
Hanachirusato:
Ioroi survived and doesn't seem to be depressed at all despite having been sealed in stone by Kamuna. And... he doesn't seem to have a grudge against the Kitsune Saiguu either.
Hanachirusato:
Although all is not as well as it once was, the bloodlines of Konda and Saimon in Konda Village still run true to this day, which is good. Inagi Misato of the Grand Shrine was once her friend as well, and that line endures.
Hanachirusato:
These are the descendants of the people she protected when the disaster struck. She would be proud to know that they are well and that their bloodlines have been passed on.
Hanachirusato:
Still... I was a little agitated by the destruction of the catalyst that was given to Hiiragi Hiroshi, Kanjou Head, by the Kitsune Saiguu...
Traveler:
More than a little, I'd say...
Hanachirusato:
Hehe, you are right. I was really bent out of shape about that. Still, I'm glad to see that it came to you, even through such twists and turns...
Hanachirusato:
...I wonder if this is how I feel, or if this is how the Kitsune Saiguu feels.
Hanachirusato:
In the past, I was often troubled by the fact that her mind was mixed with mine — and yet I was also something she was tasked to remove.
Hanachirusato:
But now... I am relieved.
Hanachirusato:
It was a pleasure and an honor to travel with you.
Hanachirusato:
No, rather, it was because of you that I was able to come here and carry out my final duties.
Paimon:
Are you really leaving?
Hanachirusato:
Yes. Thank you for everything, Paimon.
Hanachirusato:
Please forgive me for overstepping... Traveler, Paimon, please hear what I have to say.
Traveler:
I'm listening.
Hanachirusato:
"Do not be blinded. Do not waver. Keep walking the path that you believe in."
Hanachirusato:
These were the Kitsune Saiguu's last words before her final parting.
Hanachirusato:
I'm not qualified to claim the Hakushin bloodline for my own. But I believe that if the Kitsune Saiguu were alive, she would give you her blessing.
Hanachirusato:
I hope that her words— I mean, my words— will be able to ward off at least some of the lies and evil that you shall face in the future.
Traveler:
Thank you.
Hanachirusato:
Hehe. You are welcome.
Hanachirusato:
In exchange... please indulge me one final time.
Hanachirusato:
The Kitsune Saiguu always favored the beauty of short chants. Although I have inherited her memories and the 1,111 chants she knew, I lack the grace she possessed with them.
Hanachirusato:
But this moment reminds me of one such chant...
Hanachirusato:
"When shall we meet again after this parting? For life is like the morning dew."
Traveler:
Miss Hanachirusato...
Hanachirusato:
Thank you, and goodbye. It was a pleasure to meet you both... Traveler, Paimon.
Hanachirusato:
"All branches and roots, end this evil!"
Hanachirusato:
"...And I declare it purified hereby."
A mysterious, masked shrine maiden is by the strange fox statue, seemingly with something to request of you...
???:
Excuse me, busy Traveler, but I have a favor to ask.
???:
Please, look at the Sky Kitsune Statue over there.
???:
There is a ward within it that they say can only be removed by someone who has courage, values friendship, and who is favored by the might of Electro.
???:
I was right. You are the "Destined One."
???:
With your skills and experience... Mm, this shouldn't be a problem.
Hanachirusato:
Excuse my rudeness. My name is Hanachirusato, and I am a shrine maiden.
Paimon:
Do shrine maidens usually wear masks?
Hanachirusato:
...I have my reasons for that.
Hanachirusato:
The village in front of you is named Konda Village, and there is a... barrier within it that needs to be lifted.
Hanachirusato:
That barrier is hidden behind a certain secret. I'd like to entrust you with a little investigation, and with lifting that barrier.
Hanachirusato:
Yes. It may take some time and trouble, but I'm sure that you will reveal the truth in the end.
Paimon:
Well, that sounds like a lot of work. Will there be payment?
Hanachirusato:
Hehe... Of course.
Hanachirusato:
"To those who seek shall just reward be given in proportion to their wisdom and work."
Hanachirusato:
...That's what she used to say. So no, there is no need to worry.
Traveler:
"She"?
Hanachirusato:
...
Hanachirusato:
I shall be counting on you for this investigation, Destined One.
Konda Densuke:
I wrote down all the events at that time and the location of the key before throwing the notes onto the roof. You can read it yourself.
Konda Densuke:
After entrusting the secret to a kind young person like you, I'm more relieved now...
Konda Densuke:
*sigh* Did Konda Village become like this because I couldn't fulfill my duty to the gods?
???:
There is a ward within it that they say can only be removed by someone who has courage, values friendship, and who is favored by the might of Electro.
???:
You were able to retrieve the ward... That means that you really are the "Destined One."
???:
With your skills and experience... Mm, this shouldn't be a problem.
Hanachirusato:
Excuse my rudeness. My name is Hanachirusato, and I am a shrine maiden.
Paimon:
Do shrine maidens usually wear masks?
Hanachirusato:
...I have my reasons for that.
Hanachirusato:
The village in front of you is named Konda Village, and there is a... barrier within it that needs to be lifted.
Hanachirusato:
That barrier is hidden behind a certain secret. I'd like to entrust you with a little investigation, and with lifting that barrier.
Hanachirusato:
Yes. It may take some time and trouble, but I'm sure that you will reveal the truth in the end.
Paimon:
Well, that sounds like a lot of work. Will there be payment?
Hanachirusato:
Hehe... Of course.
Hanachirusato:
"To those who seek shall just reward be given in proportion to their wisdom and work."
Hanachirusato:
...That's what she used to say. So no, there is no need to worry.
Traveler:
"She"?
Hanachirusato:
...
Hanachirusato:
I shall be counting on you for this investigation, Destined One.
Hanachirusato:
Greetings.
Hanachirusato:
Konda Village has a long history. In the distant past, its people were once charged with the duty of guarding a certain barrier.
Hanachirusato:
But too many things have been lost to time, and this barrier has now become something that must be removed.
Hanachirusato:
I wish you all the best.
Takeru:
Amazing, you climbed up so easily!
Takeru:
Hmmm...? Looking at you, mister, you should be an outlander, right?
Takeru:
It's been a super long time since I've seen an outlander!
Takeru:
Well then, speak: What can Konda Takeru do for you, O outlander from afar?
Paimon:
What an arrogant little kid...
Traveler:
Have you noticed anything strange lately?
Takeru:
*shh* Keep your voice down... I can tell you, but promise me you won't get scared!
Takeru:
During thunderstorms...
Takeru:
...things get spooky around here!
Takeru:
There's a strange spooky ghost lady!
Takeru:
Huh, how can you be so calm after I told you something like that?
Takeru:
When I told Grandpa Densuke, he didn't believe me either. He said that I must have been mistaken...
Traveler:
Any other unusual things going on?
Takeru:
See, that's it over there. There are hilichurls digging at it, too!
Paimon:
This must be the broken cart Takeru mentioned!
Paimon:
But other than some tattered paper, Paimon doesn't see anything special here.
Paimon:
Let's see... The contents of this piece of paper are... a Shogunate ledger of goods and payments...
Paimon:
The goods are... "this book" blah blah blah... "participating in" blah blah... and the number is something-something volumes?
Paimon:
It says "volumes," which must refer to things made of paper, right?
Konda Densuke's Notes:
(Most of the notes are illegible due to their exposure to the elements.)
Konda Densuke's Notes:
"...But the lies and cover-up of this thievery weigh heavily on me. Therefore, I decide to leave these notes..."
Konda Densuke's Notes:
"...The group attacked the public drunkenly, stealing no small amount of goods and some pouches of Mora..."
Konda Densuke's Notes:
"...After much discussion, it was decided that this matter should be covered up... The cart was destroyed in the night. The goods and coin pouches were dumped down an empty well..."
Konda Densuke's Notes:
"...The well was sealed and locked, and the key was hidden in a broken house across the gully on the east side of the village... Legend has it that it was built by Douin. Sadly, it's now so desolate that it proved a fitting choice to hide such a key..."
Konda Densuke's Notes:
"...Konda Village should've been prosperous. The Konda Clan should've thrived... I hope... for the sake of Takeru and Futaba... this village shall remain free of mishaps..."
Futaba:
Hello, strange big bro! What's up?
Traveler:
Have you encountered anything strange lately?
Futaba:
Strange? Uh... I don't get it. What kinds of things would you consider strange?
Futaba:
Hmm... Hmm...
Futaba:
I know!
Paimon:
Did something come to mind?
Futaba:
There's a weirdly dressed outlander and a floating white... thing talking to me!
Traveler:
That is indeed strange.
Futaba:
I know, right?
Paimon:
Hey! You two!
Futaba:
Okay, I'll be serious. One night, it suddenly started raining very heavily. Then, I heard a strange sound outside the house that accompanied the sound of the rain.
Traveler:
Strange sound?
Futaba:
Yes, it was like an intermittent clicking, clacking sound!
Futaba:
The next day, I went to check it out! Then I saw some floating bags in the village gully.
Futaba:
I left them alone because I didn't know who had put them there...
Futaba:
They might have washed away by now. You can take a look along the gully!
Traveler:
Were there any other clues?
Futaba:
Other than that... I can't think of any.
Futaba:
You can go ask my dad! He knows a lot of things.
Traveler:
Your dad?
Futaba:
Konda Densuke, the chief of Konda Village.
Paimon:
Huh? That old man is your dad?
Futaba:
Actually, I was adopted. He adopted me, so now I'm his daughter.
Futaba:
Oh! You can also go ask my nephew, Takeru.
Paimon:
Wait a second. Nephew...?
Traveler:
I see. He is the village chief's grandson.
Futaba:
That's right. Takeru likes high places, so maybe he's seen something from there...
Paimon:
This family's pretty complicated...
Traveler:
I see. Thank you.
Futaba:
Hehe. Glad that I could help!
Futaba:
*sigh* Why isn't Takeru here yet? We were supposed to hang out today.
Futaba:
Did he go up to the roof again...?
Paimon:
Hmm... This must be one of the "floating bags" that Futaba mentioned!
Paimon:
Hee-hee, let's see what's inside...
Paimon:
This should be Konda Village.
Paimon:
Secrets... Hmm, yes, Paimon smells something suspicious!
Paimon:
How rude! Paimon was just saying the obvious.
Paimon:
Hehe. It might look very peaceful here, but Paimon's sure that there's gotta be something dark going on.
Traveler:
Really?
Paimon:
There's gotta be some secrets here! Miss Masked Maiden said so.
Paimon:
Anyway, let's talk to the locals first. Maybe we can find something out...
Traveler:
Find out what?
Paimon:
Hehehe, the secret that the people of Konda Village are trying to hide!
Saimon Eri:
Hello, youngster. Are you here to listen to this old woman's stories?
Traveler:
Have you encountered anything strange lately?
Saimon Eri:
The strangest thing is how we haven't heard from Jirou for such a long time...
Saimon Eri:
My old husband's even put up a search notice in Inazuma City.
Saimon Eri:
*sigh* Jirou used to hang out with the young gangsters in the village.
Saimon Eri:
We urged him to join the army because they were together from morning to night and were always up to no good.
Saimon Eri:
Maybe the kid's broken off contact because we pushed him too hard...
Saimon Eri:
Speaking of which, it seems like I haven't seen any of those punks for a while, either.
Traveler:
Anything else out of the ordinary?
Saimon Eri:
Out of the ordinary... Let's see...
Saimon Eri:
In the past, traders and tourists from various countries would disembark at Ritou, and they would pass through our village on their way to Inazuma City.
Saimon Eri:
The village was always busy and we would open our doors for outlanders. But that hasn't happened for a long time. That's unusual, isn't it?
Saimon Eri:
Mr. Imatani never worried much about the kids in the past, nor would Jirou ever have fought any war no matter who told him to. This is also very abnormal.
Saimon Eri:
And the deserted shrine at the foot of the mountain would never have fallen into disrepair in the past like it has now. I've heard that the statue of the Great Fox occasionally sheds tears. That's not normal either, is it?
Saimon Eri:
The Konda family's well is always dry, even though there is plenty of water all around. Someone locked the well up the other night, and not a soul knows who did it. This kind of thing isn't normal either, right?
Saimon Eri:
Little Takeru even said that he saw a ghostly woman during a stormy night. But who or what would haunt such a peaceful village? This too is very abnormal, yes?
Saimon Eri:
...
Saimon Eri:
Hehehe... There are just too many strange goings-on for an old woman like me. Are these what you wanted to know?
Traveler:
So, about the punks you mentioned earlier...
Paimon:
Do you know where they are, Granny?
Saimon Eri:
They're a band of troublemaking brats. They most likely went somewhere new to make trouble.
Saimon Eri:
As long as Jirou isn't influenced by them, I couldn't care less.
Saimon Eri:
Still, you just reminded me of something...
Saimon Eri:
I've heard that for a while, there was a lot of Mora scattered inside the dry well behind the village chief's house.
Saimon Eri:
But a group of ronin came to the village later and took almost all of it.
Saimon Eri:
That's all I know. If you want to know more, you can go ask our village chief.
Konda Densuke:
What can I do for you, youngster?
Traveler:
The fox lady said you might say that... You're pure of heart, kind, and believe the best in things.
Konda Densuke:
My name is Konda Densuke, and I am the village chief.
Konda Densuke:
From the way you dress, you must be an outsi— I mean, outlander, right? It's been a long time since an outlander has come to the village.
Konda Densuke:
How can I help you? Need a place to rest your feet? Or do you need help to find your way up the mountain?
Paimon:
No! We're here to ask about the secret of Konda Village!
Traveler:
...Oh boy.
Konda Densuke:
Secret? Konda Village doesn't have any secrets.
Konda Densuke:
Although the economy isn't good these days, all the taxes that should be paid to the police station are paid regularly, regardless.
Konda Densuke:
There are only a few families in our village, all with a long history. And we know each other's roots. How could we have any secrets?
Traveler:
Calm down a little...
Konda Densuke:
Konda Village is simple and peaceful. There are no secrets here.
Konda Densuke:
If you're looking for secrets, why don't you just go to the Grand Narukami Shrine and learn the secrets of deciphering fortune slips? Or how about you go to Chinju Forest and see if you can hear the "tanuki-bayashi," huh!?
Konda Densuke:
Phew... Sorry, I might have overreacted.
Konda Densuke:
Konda Village is a peaceful place. Youngster, are you sure you don't have the wrong village?
Paimon:
But...
Konda Densuke:
If you don't believe me, you can look around yourself. I, Konda Densuke, will not stand in your way.
Futaba:
Are you looking for those bags, big bro? If you follow the gully, you might find them!
Well Lock:
(The dry well is locked and looks like it could be opened with the corresponding key...)
Paimon:
It's tightly locked, just like Granny said...
Paimon:
Hmm? There seems to be something here...
Paimon:
Wow! It's a marked coin pouch!
Paimon:
Traveler, are you thinking what Paimon's thinking?
Traveler:
What's on your mind?
Paimon:
Paimon's thinking about buying lots and lots of snacks with this Mora!
Traveler:
I'm thinking that there shouldn't be a coin pouch here.
Paimon:
Ah! You mean that we should make it disappear, right?
Paimon:
Just kidding. Hmm, a coin pouch by the well... That means...
Traveler:
Someone is hiding something.
Paimon:
...And this well's in the village chief's yard.
Saimon Eri:
Ah, look at this old lady, only focusing on talking about her own son...
Saimon Eri:
Well, if you're interested in what's going on, go over to the dried-up well and check it out.
Saimon Eri:
Ah, it's you, youngster.
Saimon Eri:
Thank you so much for helping us with Jirou.
Traveler:
How is he doing?
Saimon Eri:
He's doing well, thanks to you. But considering his situation, it's best that he doesn't come out to greet you for now.
Saimon Eri:
Anyway, I'm glad that he came back alive. He told me what he went through... and it's a blessing that he met you.
Traveler:
Have you encountered anything strange lately?
Saimon Eri:
If I must say so, Jirou being as peaceable as his is now is most strange.
Saimon Eri:
This is thanks to you, too.
Saimon Eri:
*sigh* He used to hang out with the young gangsters in the village.
Saimon Eri:
We urged him to join the army because they were together from morning to night and were always up to no good.
Saimon Eri:
I thought that he would learn how to deal with people in the army, or at least understand how to be sincere with people, and stop giving others troubles.
Saimon Eri:
He failed to learn any of that in the army, but his experience with you sure showed him a thing or two. Hehe...
Saimon Eri:
If he gets restless again... I'll teach him a lesson.
Paimon:
Whoa, so scary!
Traveler:
Anything else out of the ordinary?
Saimon Eri:
Out of the ordinary... Let's see...
Saimon Eri:
In the past, traders and tourists from various countries would disembark at Ritou, and they would pass through our village on their way to Inazuma City.
Saimon Eri:
The village was always busy and we would open our doors for outlanders. But that hasn't happened for a long time. That's unusual, isn't it?
Saimon Eri:
Mr. Imatani never worried much about the kids in the past, nor would Jirou ever have fought any war no matter who told him to. This is also very abnormal.
Saimon Eri:
And the deserted shrine at the foot of the mountain would never have fallen into disrepair in the past like it has now. I've heard that the statue of the Great Fox occasionally sheds tears. That's not normal either, is it?
Saimon Eri:
The Konda family's well is always dry, even though there is plenty of water all around. Someone locked the well up the other night, and not a soul knows who did it. This kind of thing isn't normal either, right?
Saimon Eri:
Little Takeru even said that he saw a ghostly woman during a stormy night. But who or what would haunt such a peaceful village? This too is very abnormal, yes?
Saimon Eri:
...
Saimon Eri:
Hehehe... There are just too many strange goings-on for an old woman like me. Are these what you wanted to know?
Traveler:
So, about the punks you mentioned earlier...
Paimon:
Do you know where they are, Granny?
Saimon Eri:
They're a band of troublemaking brats. They most likely went somewhere new to make trouble.
Saimon Eri:
As long as Jirou is no longer influenced by them, I couldn't care less.
Saimon Eri:
Still, you just reminded me of something...
Saimon Eri:
I heard that several bags of Mora were found in the dry well behind the village chief's house.
Saimon Eri:
But a group of ronin came to the village later and took almost all of it.
Saimon Eri:
That's all I know. If you want to know more, you can go ask our village chief.
Takeru:
How can I convince Grandpa Densuke that there really is a ghost...
Traveler:
Tell him something weird...
Takeru:
Besides the ghost? That would be the broken cart at the entrance of the village!
Konda Densuke:
I've told you, there's nothing wrong here.
Konda Densuke:
If you don't believe me, just check it out for yourself.
Konda Densuke:
*sigh* You again...
Traveler:
The villagers have told us everything...
Konda Densuke:
They did? What did they say?
Konda Densuke:
Don't you think you can fool an old man like me with these baseless accusations...
According to Hanachirusato, these barriers must be broken to cleanse the Thunder Sakura's roots. The next barrier seems to be located in the abandoned shrine to the northeast of Konda Village. Although the place sounds quite unsettling indeed, this is Hanachirusato's request, so it is best that you see it done.
Paimon:
A fox statue... Yup, it's the same as the one in Konda Village!
Paimon:
But Paimon doesn't see a ward in it... or has the ward been hidden?
Paimon:
Ugh, it's some troublesome secret again, isn't it...
Paimon:
Hehehe, right? The village chief told us everything.
Paimon:
Wait! There's some writing here.
Paimon:
"The ward has been sealed within by sacred words."
Paimon:
Hmm, what does that mean? There's some more writing here as well...
Paimon:
"Although I hope the seal will never be broken, and although you have now been missing for many years... If the seal must be broken and the Cleansing Ritual conducted, I hope that you shall be the one to break it."
Paimon:
"The third line of the sacred words is something you often used to say in the past."
Traveler:
I don't get it.
Paimon:
Let Paimon see... "But if the one to undo the seal is my successor, then there is one extra step you must go through."
Paimon:
"There are four great spirits, and three spokes in the Mitsudomoe. I have placed three shikigami here as guardians. Only when they are all gathered here in one place can you proceed."
Paimon:
"I wouldn't call this layer of security all that useful, but it should still serve to fend off some petty thieves."
Paimon:
...Eh!?
Traveler:
What is it, Paimon?
Paimon:
Then we have to find a solution!
Paimon:
Otherwise, we'd be no better than "petty thieves"!
Paimon:
Well, that should do it! Phew, Paimon's exhausted!
Traveler:
Shouldn't I be the exhausted one...
Paimon:
Let's not fuss over the details, shall we?
Paimon:
Hmm, looks like there's a book in here...
Paimon:
Whoa, it's so hard to read!
Paimon:
Paimon's read it all, but it also feels like Paimon didn't read anything at all.
Paimon:
Forget it. Let's get some professional help!
Paimon:
Since it's about gods and demons and stuff, let's go to the Grand Narukami Shrine, shall we?
Inagi Hotomi:
The use of sacred words was said to have become a lost art after the Kamuna bloodline failed...
Inagi Hotomi:
...Ah, sorry, I didn't see you there. The Memento Lens is yours to keep. Take it out to see the world, would you?
Inagi Hotomi:
Hello, Traveler from afar. Welcome to the Grand Narukami Shrine!
Inagi Hotomi:
If you have some trouble or just want to make a wish, feel free to ask Ms. Gendou for a fortune slip. May the Electro Archon bless you.
Inagi Hotomi:
I see. I understand the situation.
Inagi Hotomi:
The Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual is a very important rite, and there are indeed records of it...
Traveler:
But?
Inagi Hotomi:
But the actual details of the ritual have been lost. The Summary you are holding is a very valuable historical artifact in that regard.
Traveler:
Lost?
Paimon:
Are the Fatui behind this? If you say it's so important, then they might be up to something here too...
Inagi Hotomi:
Oh no. The degradation here is due to poor preservation, humidity, and moths.
Paimon:
...
Inagi Hotomi:
Ah, it's a great shame, but a lot of historical records have been lost. Lady Yae and Sir Kamisato were fretting over this earlier as well.
Inagi Hotomi:
But as for the sacred words, I do know a thing or two.
Paimon:
Mm-hmm! Please tell us how to unseal that ward!
Inagi Hotomi:
I apologize, but the sacred words used to seal the ward are not some sort of specific formula.
Inagi Hotomi:
... Instead, they are something created by the one who casts the seal themselves.
Paimon:
Eh? What do you mean...
Paimon:
The spell... was created on the fly by the caster?
Inagi Hotomi:
This is not precisely so, either. Sacred words of this sort do have some rules.
Traveler:
Do elaborate.
Inagi Hotomi:
Hmm... I believe that the records go something like this.
Inagi Hotomi:
The first line represents one's own status in Inazuma. Something with the word "envoy" attached to it, I believe...
Inagi Hotomi:
The second line is meant to explain the source of one's power. Something like dango, ramen, or a light novel, for example.
Paimon:
Ooh, Paimon gets it. Those are definitely great power sources!
Inagi Hotomi:
I'm just giving an example. The records use something like "Onmyou Hakkyou."
Inagi Hotomi:
As for the third line...
Inagi Hotomi:
Yes, you've guessed it. It can be whatever you want it to be.
Inagi Hotomi:
Considering how long it's been, I doubt that any still live who understand how to use this third line.
Paimon:
Ugh, what shall we do, then?
Paimon:
Miss Masked Maiden's commission... and this whole nation... it's all gonna go kaput!
Traveler:
Relax, Paimon...
Inagi Hotomi:
Mm. Perhaps these two items can be of aid to you.
Inagi Hotomi:
This is the Memento Lens.
Paimon:
Memento? So it's a souvenir?
Inagi Hotomi:
Since the two of you are so knowledgeable, I trust that you must have heard of the Kamera? It's a Fontaine-made device that can record images.
Inagi Hotomi:
A long time ago, when Ritou was first founded, the Hiiragi Clan leader Hiroshi imported many new inventions from other places to prove the benefits of building a trading hub.
Inagi Hotomi:
For example, he used a Snezhnayan blast furnace to turn an old Hiiragi Clan mansion at Tenshukaku into a hot spring, before sending it as a gift and token of appreciation to Her Excellency.
Inagi Hotomi:
He also used the demon-exorcising mirror gifted to the Hiiragi Clan by the Kitsune Saiguu to create a special Kamera in Fontaine. It can record thoughts and memories. It was returned to us here at the Shrine as a token of appreciation and friendship.
Inagi Hotomi:
As the years passed, the Kamera itself ceased to function. Only the lens blessed by the Kitsune Saiguu can still see things that no longer exist in certain special places.
Inagi Hotomi:
We extracted the lens and named it the Memento Lens.
Inagi Hotomi:
The two of you have come on account of the "sakura," and I can sense from our conversation that you are trustworthy.
Inagi Hotomi:
I believe that it will come to good use in your hands.
Traveler:
Such an important item...
Inagi Hotomi:
I suppose you may not be familiar with this as outsiders, but we believe that everything has a soul. Even stones and trees have memories! And when an item is left unused for a long time, it will grow bitter with dissatisfaction.
Inagi Hotomi:
As such, we might as well give the Lens to someone who can show it all the changes the world has gone through rather than letting it gather dust in our shrine.
Paimon:
No problem! Leave it to us!
Inagi Hotomi:
Legend has it that after the Kitsune Saiguu disappeared, her familiars, the Earth Kitsune of Narukami Island, turned into sleeping statues in many places, waiting for her to return.
Inagi Hotomi:
If you see a small, strange-looking fox statue, looking at it through the Memento Lens may reveal something new.
Traveler:
Thank you.
Inagi Hotomi:
May the Electro Archon bless you! I shall be counting on you two, then.
Mysterious Man:
Hmm. Yes, it looks like the spirit veins here can still be used.
Mysterious Man:
Her familiars are also here. Yes, it is a fine place.
Mysterious Man:
Well then, allow me to use sacred words to protect this ward.
Mysterious Man:
Then the first line shall be "In the name of Narukami's envoy."
Mysterious Man:
...Guess I'll just follow the previous example and use "And of the Hakushin bloodline." as the second line. I am no master onmyouji, after all.
Mysterious Woman:
You are... that person who seems very nice on the surface.
Mysterious Man:
Hey, long time no see. Guess you're still so cold to me, huh...
Mysterious Man:
...Wait, no. Who are you?
Mysterious Man:
This scent... Is it time for the Cleansing Ritual again?
Mysterious Woman:
I am... Call me "Hanachirusato."
Mysterious Man:
...No need to tell me. I get it.
Mysterious Man:
I thought she had returned for a moment there... Huh, so that's what happened.
Mysterious Man:
Yeah, don't worry about it. Nice to meet you, Miss Hanachirusato!
Mysterious Woman:
I... I remember now. About the Sacred Sakura. About you. About Raiden.
Mysterious Man:
Mm-hmm. Ah, wait. Perhaps what you're seeing right now is not me, but Ioroi in disguise.
Mysterious Man:
After all, Miss Hanachirusato, you've never seen me in person before, right?
Mysterious Woman:
I'm not sure there would be much difference either way, if my memory serves.
Mysterious Man:
Eh? Come on, that was uncalled for...
Mysterious Man:
My, that lady is such a buzzkill.
Mysterious Man:
If I am to have a disciple one day, I shall find a cheerful and beautiful lady. Yeah, I'll make sure of that.
Mysterious Man:
Now, as for the third line... Ah, right, this looks good.
Mysterious Man:
"Bring forth the fried tofu"!
Mysterious Man:
Since this is her territory — the land of the Hakushin bloodline — we'll go with that.
Mysterious Woman:
How quickly the shrine has fallen to neglect after losing its master and the incense within...
Mysterious Woman:
I can only hope that the barrier within the cavern still stands strong.
Mysterious Woman:
Ah, I remember now. She once instructed people to construct a locked gate by a canal on the road leading to Chinju Forest, before giving the key to the Konda Clan.
Mysterious Woman:
I hope everything is still alright.
Paimon:
Well, that should do it! Phew, Paimon's exhausted!
Traveler:
Shouldn't I be the exhausted one...
Paimon:
Let's not fuss over the details, shall we?
Paimon:
Hmm, looks like there's a book in here...
Paimon:
Whoa, it's so hard to read!
Paimon:
Paimon's read it all, but it also feels like Paimon didn't read anything at all.
Paimon:
Forget it. Let's get some professional help!
Paimon:
Since it's about gods and demons and stuff, let's go to the Grand Narukami Shrine, shall we?
Records:
"The ward has been sealed in place using sacred words. There are four great spirits, and three spokes in the Mitsudomoe. I have placed three shikigami here as guardians. Only when they are all gathered here in one place can one proceed."
Mysterious Man:
... Yeah, it's decided. We'll let her go this time.
Mysterious Man:
After all, it's not my job, and it's not as if she is some monster, charging at me like an Ochimusha might.
Mysterious Man:
I'm all tuckered out already. I thought I had run into a long-lost friend. That feeling is so exhausting...
Mysterious Woman:
Then let us part ways here.
Mysterious Man:
Ah, you're so cold.
Mysterious Woman:
"Rosy-cheeked in the morning, bleached bones by dusk."
Mysterious Man:
Oh, come on! It was at least half an emotional reunion for me! Actually, maybe it was more like one quarter?
Mysterious Man:
Ah, you're gone already? Come on...
Mysterious Man:
That being said, after she left, Ioroi seems to have led his tribe to wreak havoc everywhere.
Mysterious Man:
Well, I could have kept one eye shut, had Ioroi stayed in the Chinju Forest.
Mysterious Man:
Mm. Guess he needs to be taught a good lesson...
Mysterious Woman:
This was... my previous...
Mysterious Woman:
Wait, that wasn't me. It was her previous territory.
Mysterious Woman:
That person over there... seems so familiar...
Mysterious Man:
Yeah, guess we're done here. Time to write all this down and hand it over to the shrine.
Mysterious Man:
After all, this isn't like the shikigami paper I use. With any luck, they'll preserve it properly. Things might get dicey if these document come across moths or water.
Mysterious Man:
Ah! Silly me, saying such inauspicious things...
You learn that an old friend of Hanachirusato's can be found in Chinju Forest. Perhaps they might be able to help out with the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual. But while in the forest, you hear a strange shout.
Ioroi:
What? Weren't you off to enjoy your Sacred Secular Steaming Victuals or whatever?
Ioroi:
Go now. If you run into that sneaky kitsune, remember to send her my regards.
Paimon:
We're finally here! This must be the Chinju Forest.
Paimon:
Miss Masked Maiden said that an old friend of hers is in here.
Paimon:
Well, let's get moving!
Paimon:
This is it? It's just a bunch of bare stones...
Paimon:
Hmm? He seems to be using some kind of magic to...
Paimon:
Whoa! The stones disappeared!
Paimon:
So this is bake-danuki magic? Seems kinda fun!
Paimon:
Thank you, Kichiboushi! Let's play Hide-and-Seek next time.
"Kichiboushi":
Mm!
Paimon:
The Sky Kitsune Statue that was supposed to protect the ward... It's empty inside.
Paimon:
Maybe it was hidden by Miss Mask's old friend. Let's go find out!
Traveler:
"Miss Mask," Paimon?
Paimon:
Paimon just came up with that nickname. How is it? Easier to remember, right?
Paimon:
Well, forget it then... Anyway, let's find some clues first!
Ioroi:
What? I didn't realize that it was so important. You should've said so earlier...
Ioroi:
Agh, I was sealed over this thing for...
Ioroi:
Ugh! Stop speaking so lightly of my misfortunes!
Ioroi:
Never mind. It's all water under the bridge now. I do also have some inkling about the barrier near the forest.
Ioroi:
Back when I was fighting that sneaky kitsune, I once saw it on the eastern seashore. It looks like a Thunder Sakura with a torii gate, right?
Ioroi:
Back when that guy was battling the demons or whatever, I was worried that some of them might come out to hurt us. So I used magic to put a seal on that place.
Ioroi:
Let me see. The seal should be under the cliff face to the east... Kichiboushi, take them there and remove the seal.
Traveler:
Thank you, Ioroi.
Ioroi:
Alright, alright. Enough jibber-jabber. Go now.
Ioroi:
If you run into that sneaky kitsune, remember to send her my regards. Just say... let me think...
Ioroi:
"You've ticked me off real good this time, you jerk. Come back and fight me — our contest isn't over yet! And help me break this seal while you're at it, would you? It's not as if I couldn't do it myself or anything, but you still owe me a favor! Also, Gyoubu Koban says he misses you!"
Paimon:
Whoa, whoa, that's a lot to remember!
Ioroi:
Eek! I—I... Mine name is Ioroi. Do whatever you want! K—Kill me if that be your will!
Paimon:
Wow, the statue is talking! And it's so scared that it can barely string a sentence together!
Ioroi:
I am no statue! This unseemly appearance is but the work of a temporary seal! Mine name is Ioroi, the world-renowned bake-danuki!
Ioroi:
What? Are you telling me that folk nowadays have heard naught of Ioroi?
Ioroi:
The "Tanuki Gyouen Scroll," "Ioroi's Teapot," "Kakushigami Oobayashi," "Yougou Tanuki Gassen"... Of these tales have you heard nothing?
Ioroi:
Ah, how long has mine seal persisted...
Traveler:
I mean you no harm...
Ioroi:
What? You aren't here to destroy me? Come now, why did you not say so earlier, then?
Ioroi:
*cough* Ahem. Well then, speak! Why have you come seeking me, the lord of bake-danuki?
Traveler:
This is about the Sacred Sakura Cleansing Ritual...
Ioroi:
The Sacred Secular what now? What is that? Some manner of oni treasure?
Traveler:
This guy is unbelievable...
Paimon:
*sigh* Is he really Miss Masked Maiden's old friend?
Paimon:
Anyway, we're looking for something hidden inside a kitsune statue.
Ioroi:
Eek... Uh, Wh—Why are you l—looking for that, might I ask?
Traveler:
Ah.
Ioroi:
Ugh, it's on that comb's account that I was sealed in here for...
Ioroi:
...
Traveler:
One hundred years?
Ioroi:
I don't know how long it's been! Sunlight doesn't come through the Chinju Forest. There's no way to tell time!
Ioroi:
Back then, I wreaked havoc everywhere to lure that sneaky kitsune out, but it was all in vain.
Ioroi:
Eventually, I decided to vent my anger by dismantling one of those kitsune statues, and I found a comb inside... Which gave me an idea!
Ioroi:
The comb was hidden inside a kitsune statue and even had the Hakushin symbol on it, which reminded me of her white fur...
Ioroi:
Thus, I concluded immediately that it must be very important. In which case, I just needed to hide the comb, and that sneaky kitsune would surely come out!
Paimon:
Yup, treasure's a good way to lure people out for sure! Then what happened?
Ioroi:
Then came one of the humans from the Yougou Three. He defeated my tribe and I, turning all of us to stone.
Paimon:
So that's why Ioroi is afraid of humans...
Ioroi:
Hmph! Humans. They're so short-lived, and they can't even transform... I don't get why that kitsune likes them so much.
Ioroi:
That guy who sealed me up was especially infuriating. He even told me to "strike a nice pose so that I can become nice scenery." Why, that little—!
Traveler:
Well, you do make for nice scenery...
Ioroi:
Eh? You... How could you...
Paimon:
(Hey, Traveler, don't annoy him, or we may never get that ward...)
Traveler:
I mean to say that you look really bold and burly...
Paimon:
That's right! You make this dark forest look so much more colorful!
Ioroi:
...
Ioroi:
And?
Traveler:
Like the statue of a god...
Paimon:
Well, so, being sealed up is not such a bad thing after all, eh? See, humans don't mean you any harm!
Ioroi:
I reckon I can see where you're going, but at the same time... I also... don't?
Traveler:
Could we borrow that comb you spoke of?
Ioroi:
Well, you certainly could... But only if you play with the children first.
Paimon:
Sure, that's easy. Traveler is good with kids!
Traveler:
Am I really...
Ioroi:
Shousei, Gyoubu Koban, and Kichiboushi. Go find these three little tanuki and play with them. I would do it, but as you can see, I'm not exactly at any liberty to move.
Ioroi:
That dratted fellow was a bit sloppy when he sealed them. That's why some of them were able to get out earlier.
Ioroi:
...Wait, that's not correct! We should say, rather, that we bake-danuki are most powerful indeed. It's only normal, therefore, that we could free ourselves from a mere human seal!
Traveler:
Well, what about you then...
Paimon:
Ahem! You speak truth, Ioroi the mighty and powerful!
Ioroi:
Although their power can't really compare to mine, they can still use it to hide themselves.
Ioroi:
Alright then, off you go.
Ioroi:
Ooh... I do so wish to scratch mine belly...
Ioroi:
Mm? You're back already? Go on, help me find Shousei, Gyoubu Koban, and Kichiboushi, and go play with them.
Ioroi:
Alright then, off you go.
Ioroi:
Hehe, well done! They seem to be quite happy.
Ioroi:
...Huh? Oh, no problem. Let me ask them for you.
Ioroi:
Gyoubu Koban was asking, "If you are humans, why do you smell like tanuki?"
Ioroi:
...Actually, that's right! I demand an explanation! Why *do* you smell like tanuki?
Paimon:
Eh? You're only asking this now...
Paimon:
Right! That's what happened!
Paimon:
Miss Masked Maiden cooked us a very lavish meal earlier, and she said that she used magic she secretly learned from the bake-danuki to make it.
Ioroi:
What? She learned our magic in secret? How dare she...
Ioroi:
Hmm... Could it be...
Ioroi:
Oh, come on. That sneaky kitsune! If she was still alive, she could at least have come over to say hello, right?
Paimon:
She's a shrine maiden with a mask, and she called you an "old friend."
Ioroi:
Mask? I don't know anyone with a mask. Don't know any shrine maidens, either. I sure do know a kitsune, though.
Ioroi:
...That said, that sneaky kitsune did appear in the form of a shrine maiden before. What does the shrine maiden you speak of look like?
Paimon:
She wears a white fox mask...
Ioroi:
Anything else?
Traveler:
She had short black hair.
Paimon:
And she wore a shrine maiden outfit.
Ioroi:
Hmm... Don't know her. Never seen anyone like that in mine life!
Paimon:
Is that so...
Ioroi:
...Mm? Yeah, sure, leave it to me.
Ioroi:
Shousei said, "It was fun playing with you. Thanks!"
Paimon:
Paimon had a lot of fun too!
Traveler:
So, about that comb...
Ioroi:
Now, now — I am the world renowned bake-danuki Ioroi, and I will surely keep my word. You may have the comb.
Ioroi:
But what do you plan to do with the comb, anyway? It probably still smells like kitsune.
Paimon:
Well, here's what happened...
Ioroi:
Once upon a time, I was the renowned bake-danuki, Ioroi. One of these days, I will definitely use eight huge...
Ioroi:
Oh, it's you... Ahem... Our fates are twined now, so ask me whatever questions you may have.
Ioroi:
I may just be a stone statue now, but I was once a big shot known as Ioroi, the Hidden Protector of the Grove.
Ioroi:
My job was to guard the Chinju Forest and everything in it. And as you can see, I've done a fine job indeed!
Ioroi:
Eh? Oh, you misunderstand. The hilichurls mean no harm to me. It's just that I haven't been able to look for people to play with ever since being turned into stone. They're the only ones who have kept me company.
Ioroi:
At first, I thought you were here with ill intentions because you're human. That's why I had them go after you. But it's good that you're okay.
Ioroi:
Though we can't communicate and they may be a little dull-witted, I'd still count them among my companions after all this time.
Ioroi:
It is strange, though. There didn't use to be this many hilichurls in Inazuma. I can't remember when that started...