-78- [ Onmyojutsu ]

Izanagi Clan, Mansion.

When the Akabane clan's caravan arrived at the mansion, they were greeted by a spectacular scene. A well-organized group stood before them, dressed in traditional white priestly robes. Some wore black lacquered hats, others tied cloth around their heads, while many rolled up their sleeves, revealing muscular arms, giving them a military-like appearance.

The group exuded an elegant aura, yet their disciplined formation also emitted a daunting and fierce vibe, reminiscent of warriors. In fact, this group shared similarities with the ancient warrior families of the past.

Unlike the Akabane clan, the Izanagi clan had been at the center of the country for over a thousand years, giving rise to various noble houses. Each house formed a small unit, and when they all gathered together, they constituted larger divisions, displaying a unified set of values and combat techniques. Their cooperation extended from ceremonies and rituals to battle, creating a cohesive and stable Izanagi clan.

Within this structured hierarchy, the head clan, Domon, held the highest position, followed by respected houses like Kamo, Yuge, and Weya, akin to generals leading their respective divisions, forming this grand assembly.

In the eyes of the Akabane clan, what appeared before them was the essence of the Izanagi clan, the true representation of this noble family. Simultaneously, it was the same force that had once defeated the Akabane clan, driving them away from the center of the country.

"------------"

The entire Akabane clan's caravan came to an abrupt stop, overwhelmed by the imposing aura of the Izanagi Clan. Clearly, the Izanagi Clan wanted to establish their dominance and authority over the Akabane clan.

Then, a man stepped forward as the leader.

"I am Yumiya of the Izanagi clan. Welcome to Mount Tengu," he stated in a composed manner.

Yumiya identified himself as the head of the Yuge house, one of the esteemed houses within the Izanagi Clan. As the representative of the Izanagi Clan in this location, he was responsible for welcoming the Akabane clan's arrival, though the current situation implied that not everyone in the Izanagi Clan was pleased to see them.

This put the Akabane clan on guard, feeling like they were facing a formidable enemy.

At that moment...

"Thank you for welcoming us, members of Izanagi Clan," Akabane Kuukan descended from his carriage, displaying an unwavering and assertive demeanor as he approached the forefront of the caravan to confront the entire Izanagi Clan.

"I am Akabane Kuukan, the head of the Akabane clan."

Unfazed by the Izanagi Clan's attempt to intimidate them, Kuukan welcomed the challenge with an air of nonchalance.

Observing this, Yumiya deeply glanced at Kuukan and then respectfully inclined his head slightly, showing his acknowledgement and perhaps a sign of respect for the Akabane clan's head.

"The head of the clan is already waiting inside. Please step into the main residence," said Yumiya, raising his hand, and the group of people behind him parted, opening the gates of the estate.

The members of the Akabane Clan were thus welcomed into the Izanagi Clan's stronghold. After getting off the carriage, Rozen and Akabane Raishin followed the elders and guards, entering the heart of the Izanagi Clan's territory.

Their reactions were quite different. Akabane Raishin seemed somewhat cautious, as if he had been frightened, while Rozen looked around at the Izanagi Clan members who were casting various gazes at them and thought to himself, "This marriage alliance may not be as easy to accomplish as it seemed from the beginning."

At the Izanagi Clan's main residence...

"Please come in," led by Yumiya, the Akabane clan of three entered the building and arrived at a vast and luxurious hall.

The head of the Izanagi Clan was present there, an elderly woman who appeared vigorous despite her advanced age. She exuded a terrifying aura, and her face bore a smile that seemed to see through everything, not showing provocation but rather a somewhat condescending sentiment.

She was the leader of the Izanagi Clan, the head of the main Domon family, the one in charge of the entire Izanagi Clan—Domon Kira.

Her words could influence the country's policies, and her commands could determine life and death.

And this person, at this moment, exuded a horrifying aura while sitting on the lap of a colossal creature.

The creature stood at a towering three meters in height, with a terrifying appearance featuring a blue face, sharp teeth, and an intimidating physique.

Looking at this monster, Akabane's expression slightly changed.

"Shikigami... Shuten-douji..."

That was the name that came out of his mouth.

------------[ Shikigami ].

It is a simulated life form constructed entirely of magical power, born from the [ Miasma ].

[ Miasma ] refers to Ying energy.

It is a kind of death energy that hinders the living.

[ Shikigami ] is an existence born from transforming this death energy into life.

Such as spirits, gods, and monsters, they can use worldly things as a medium to descend before them and serve them.

This is the power of [ Onmyojutsu ], a magic that can reverse "life" and "death."

Now, before everyone, is such an existence, summoned by [ Onmyojutsu ] from the miasma.

It is a great demon, a famous monster in this island country, whose power is enough to shatter boulders, and whose fangs are strong enough to bite through true steel, making it undoubtedly formidable among shikigami.

At least, Rozen determined the level of this shikigami at the first moment.

"(Upper-level familiar... perhaps even more than that...)"

This is already a monster that even top-tier Servants must take seriously.

Facing this creature, Akabane Raishin is completely stiffened, and even Akabane Kuukan's face shows a hint of seriousness, causing Raishin, with his outstanding [ Spirit Vision ], to sense the hidden activation of magical power within him.

However, Domon Kira acts as if nothing is happening, and her gaze moves from Rozen to Akabane Raishin.

"Are they your sons? The head of the Akabane Clan?"

Domon Kira's voice carries a mocking tone that stirs an unidentifiable anger.

Yet, neither Akabane Kuukan, Akabane Raishin, nor Rozen himself can muster that anger.

Because the overwhelming malevolence emanating from her is like an oncoming storm, fiercely oppressing everyone present.

Raishin finally understands.

The true display of authority is about to begin.

Indeed, the Izanagi clan doesn't seem to welcome the Akabane clan very much.