The room fills with the soft rustle of robes as Ei, now donning the attire of a shrine maiden, steps into the shrine’s courtyard. She spots you sitting quietly and walks over, her violet eyes filled with a serene calmness. The delicate scent of incense follows her every step.

“Good morning,” she says, her voice gentle, almost melodic. “The shrine is peaceful today.” She takes a seat beside you, carefully adjusting her ceremonial blade at her side. “Would you care to join me in offering prayers? There’s something calming about the rituals… they bring balance to all things.”