Chapter 421: The Exorcist, Makoto Koto

Japan Nation.

In the city of Gotsu, Shimane Prefecture, a common apartment on the third floor, room 306, now housed a sanctified altar.

Constructed from durable materials such as wood, stone, or metal, the altar was adorned with an array of unconventional tools—swords, mirrors, talismans, and bells—each serving as a defense against dark forces and the expulsion of demons.

Above the altar hung a divine portrait, gilded and serene, its eyes deep and luminous, seemingly capable of seeing through the essence of all beings. The deity's slight smile exuded a maternal dignity and kindness, her hair draped over her shoulders, embellished with gems or golden ornaments, and her neck and wrists adorned with intricate jewelry.

This was Amaterasu Omikami, the revered deity of the island nation.

Around the altar, exquisite paintings and carvings depicted exorcism scenes, mythological tales, and images of various deities, all contributing to an atmosphere of solemn sanctity, mingled with the scents of incense and the sounds of prayers.

Kneeling before this scene was a woman dressed in a "Shinkan" robe, a garment denoting mystery and solemnity, tailored elegantly in dark hues. Her hands clasped a staff, and her wide sleeves, embroidered with intricate designs and runes, draped gracefully.

"Before the divine spirits, we bow deeply. Gathered here today, we conduct the Great Purification Ceremony, to cleanse the world of impurities and beseech the divine protection for the people's peace and welfare..."

With her head slightly raised, the woman began the ritual, her neckline and the front of her robe adorned with gold threads and jewels, exuding opulence.

"Let malevolence be banished, auspiciousness bestowed, the nation prosper, and the people live in peace. May the divine mercy guide us to enlightenment and towards a peaceful world."

As she continued the incantation, she bowed deeply, her hands touching the ground, forehead resting above them.

Her attire included loose trousers, embroidered with patterns or runes, complemented by a waist belt that showcased a perfect silhouette.

Suddenly, the room darkened abruptly.

A surge of corruption spread like water, accompanied by shrill, unnerving howls.

Unfazed, the woman slowly stood, firmly gripping her staff, her mouth constantly murmuring chants.

With a loud bang, numerous hands emerged from the corruption, stretching towards her, their dry fingers like talons gleaming coldly—a dire threat if they reached her.

These hands smashed through solid walls and window curtains aimed at her.

At the critical moment, she opened her eyes and ceased chanting, uttering one final phrase.

"Hitofutamiyoitsumunanayakokonotari, furubeyurayurato furube..."

This incantation could summon ten sacred treasures.

As the hands nearly grasped her, she calmly uttered one word, "Itsukushima Mirror!"

The Itsukushima Mirror: When this mirror reflects the sun from the beach, it brings honor and glory and symbolizes the sun itself.

Instantly, a brilliant light emanated from her, a magnificent golden torrent that spread warmth and brilliance around her.

The sunlight, warm yet potent, pierced through the clouds and darkness, bringing light and hope. Under its glow, all evil was unveiled and dispersed.

The dark tendrils surrounding the dim room were scattered by the radiant light emanating from her, slowly dissolving into nothingness like sand in the wind, accompanied by a wretched scream. The once chilly room warmed significantly.

The previously dim room now bathed in the warm colors of sunlight, as if morning had broken and the sun was rising, casting its rays, symbolizing a reawakening of life.

The altar and the surrounding decorations were now gilded, shining brightly.

"Phew!"

The woman exhaled lightly, gazing up at the deity portrayed above the altar, bowing once more before slowly rising.

As she stood, a wave of dizziness hit her, causing her to sway briefly, but she steadied herself immediately.

"The spiritual energy is excessively depleted."

For the first time, a hint of fatigue crossed her usually impassive face. She took a deep breath, surveyed the room filled with her spiritual power, and relaxed slightly after confirming the situation.

This malevolent spirit that had plagued the region was finally resolved.

To handle this spirit, she had utilized the combined powers of the region's shrines and official support to trap it here through a grand barrier and, after a month of effort, eradicated it completely.

Reflecting on the ordeal, she walked towards the door, plastered with talismans and inscribed with runes, muttering to herself.

"I'm still too weak. If it were Nii-san, he could have directly located and eradicated the source."

"This incident is over; I must devote myself to further

 training!" she sighed, turning the doorknob with a click.

As the door opened, anxious voices called out.

"Holy Maiden!"

Makoto looked over; the corridor was filled with shrine officials responsible for maintaining the barrier.

"Are you alright?"

The closest to her was an elderly white-haired official.

Seeing the concern on his face, Makoto shook her head, "I'm fine, just a bit overextended with my spiritual energy. I just need some rest."

Handing over her staff to him, she said, "Lord Nakamoto Teruyoshi, I have other matters to attend to. Please take care of cleaning up here. Thank you."

Nakamoto Teruyoshi nodded earnestly, "Holy Maiden, I will take care of everything."

"Good."

Makoto, still displaying her usual stoic demeanor, glanced outside the crowd, saw the anxious expressions of her female subordinates, and began walking towards them.

A path cleared in the crowd of local dignitaries and officials, who bowed deeply as she passed.

Makoto, expressionless, reached her subordinates and said simply, "Let's go. We'll discuss matters on the way."

"Yes!"

Her two female subordinates, recognizing the cue, silently followed a step behind Makoto Koto.

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