Chapter 2: Little Ayu and a small request.

　　　　one

　Before she knew it, a month had passed since Koharu came to Yoshino's house.

　It was May in the city of Kyoto, and Koharu felt that she had gotten quite used to life here.

　When she found out that her grandmother Yoshino, whom she believed to be a completely normal person, was also known as the "Priest of Gion," she was greatly shocked. However, since that day, she has been living a normal, peaceful life, to the point where she has forgotten that she was a "Priest."

　And perhaps because he had been constantly amazed by Sojiro's unconventional behavior over the past month, he was starting to be able to speak normally, although not as well as before.

"I think that the sweetfish in Kyoto are generally too big."

　Breakfast time.

　Sojiro suddenly clenched his fists and said this, and Koharu, still half asleep, nodded vaguely and brought the bread to her mouth.

"Wow..." the sweetfish in Kyoto are big, Koharu simply agreed.

　I think that's a good thing. It's good for fish to grow big.

　However, it seemed like a trivial matter to me, so I just let it go.

"Yeah, it's a bit big," Yoshino agreed, and Koharu was a little surprised.

　Yoshino usually just brushes off anything Soujiro says, saying, "What are you talking about?" What's more, the subject of his talk is "The sweetfish in Kyoto are too big."

　Is it too big and causing some inconvenience?

　Koharu frowned in confusion.

"Right? Something smaller would be better."

"That's fine as it is, but it's too big for an elderly person to eat. It's too filling."

"I guess we all think the same thing. That's why I decided to make a 'Mini Ayu'," says Sojiro with a proud look on his face.

"--Um, what have you been doing all this time?" What do you mean by making mini Ayu?

　Unable to fully understand what was being said, Koharu grew impatient and leaned forward.

"That's exactly what I said. I made a little 'Ayu'."

　Sojiro rose to his feet and went to the kitchen, returning with a food bat in his hand.

　There are fish-shaped sweets lined up.

"Fish-shaped dorayaki?"

　Koharu tilted her head and Yoshino blinked in surprise.

"What's up, Koharu? Don't you know who Ayu is?"

"Eh, is this "ayu"?"

　The fish-shaped snacks look more like "shishamo" (shishamo fish) than "ayu" (sweetfish).

"Ayu is one of Kyoto's most famous Japanese sweets."

"Well, even so, this is a seasonal thing, and Koharu hasn't come to Kyoto much at this time of year, so she may not be familiar with it."

"Yes," Koharu nodded.

"In Kyoto, the ban on sweetfish fishing begins in June. Leading up to that, from mid-May through the summer, sweetfish-shaped Japanese sweetfish called "ayu" are on sale. It's a symbol of early summer."

　As Yoshino explained this to him, he responded with, "I see."

　So this is what "ayu" is.

"Yeah, but this is the size that is generally sold."

　What he was pointing out was a fish that was the size of a full-sized Shishamo fish, but much fatter.

But is this really that "too big"?

　From what I can see, the volume is about the same as a dorayaki.

"Well, try it."

　It was handed to her quickly and Koharu readily accepted the sweetfish.

　It's a soft and fluffy sponge, just like the skin of a dorayaki.

　The fish-shaped mark with a face on it is adorable, and when you put it in your mouth...

"Oh, are there mochi mochi in it?"

"It's called 'Gyugiyuhi' and is made by mixing rice flour or mochi flour with sugar and water syrup. It has a similar texture to mochi, but it's softer and stays soft even after a while."

"That's right. It's delicious."

　The fluffy skin and the mochi filling inside are exquisite and irresistibly delicious.

　However...

"Y-yes, if you eat one of these, it's quite filling."

"Right? Japanese sweets are something that people of all ages eat, mainly women, so if you get full after eating just one, I thought it would become one of the ingredients you avoid."

"That may well be true."

"So I came up with this: 'Mini-A-Yu'!"

　While imitating the tone of a certain cat-shaped robot, he took out a small sweetfish from the food tub.

　By the way, I've already seen this, so it's no surprise to me now.

「............」

　Koharu and Yoshino looked at him coldly.

"Well, go ahead and try this one too," Sojiro said without seeming to mind.

　Koharu truly feels envious of this mental strength.

　Koharu and Yoshino exchanged a gentle glance, then picked up the mini Ayu and brought it to their mouths.

"--!" It's delicious, Koharu thought, opening her eyes.

The skin of "mini ayu" is thinner than that of regular-sized ayu.

　To make up for this, it is stuffed with plenty of mochi.

　However, since it is small enough to be eaten in one bite, it doesn't feel very filling.

　It's easy to eat, with a gentle sweetness and chewy texture.

　Although I was satisfied, I couldn't help but reach for the next one.

"So, Soujirou, I think this is great!"

　When I take a bite of something delicious, the voice that comes out of my mouth suddenly is so loud I'm surprised.

　Although I was confused, I was also happy that I was gradually being able to speak as I had before.

"That's right. While other shops sell the same size of Ayu, our strategy is to sell cute "mini Ayu" that is easy for women to pick up."

　Soujirou put his hands on his hips and puffed out his chest.

"But I think other stores make smaller Ayu fish too. I don't think they're as rare as you say."

　Yoshino muttered to herself as she munched on the mini Ayu.

"Ours isn't 'small', it's 'mini'. It's minir than anywhere else!"

"Well, well, this is tasty and easy to eat, so I think it's fine."

"Well, the sakura mochi season is over, so from now on it's time for early summer sweets, starting with mini ayu."

　Soujirou crossed his arms and nodded.

　Yes, sales of the spring sweet "sakura mochi" sadly ended in April.

Sojiro said that by maintaining the "seasonal" nature of the product, it gives it value and makes it something to look forward to next year.

　I think that's certainly true. I think something that's only available at a certain time of year is more likely to motivate people to buy it than something that's available all year round and can be purchased at any time.

　Koharu thought that Sojiro was quite good at business.

　However, this is all because they make delicious Japanese sweets. The new "Mini Ayu" was also really delicious.

　The rows of small fish look adorable and would make a great gift.

　He picked it up again and brought it to his mouth.

　"It's irresistible," Koharu said, eyes drooping as she was delighted by the soft and fluffy Ayu fish.

　　　　two

　Today, Koharu goes to work at the store as usual.

　It was a weekday afternoon just after Golden Week, so there weren't many tourists around and the store had a laid-back atmosphere.

"--What? Koharu-chan, you didn't know that Yoshino-san was working as a 'prayer priest'? Well, you must have been surprised at the time."

　The one who said this was Yayoi, who had become a familiar face after the recent incident.

　He was sitting at the table munching on the new "Mini Ayu" sweetfish, his eyes drooping in delight.

　Her name was Nishimura Yayoi, and I learned she was the owner of a nearby pickle shop.

　She is of the same generation as Yoshino and they have been friends for a very long time.

　As there were currently no other customers in the store, the conversation turned to the other day, and Koharu revealed that until then she had not known about her grandmother's true nature.

"But why didn't you know?" he asked, turning to Yoshino.

"But Souichi has always told me not to tell him."

　Yoshino gave a wry smile, and Yayoi gave her a similar expression and said, "Ah."

"That's right. Unlike Soujirou, Souichi-chan didn't have any mysterious powers and had a tough time during adolescence when he had a rejection reaction."

"Souichi-chan" refers to Koharu's father. Koharu felt a little strange when she heard Yayoi call her father "Souichi-chan." It goes without saying, but her father was once a child as well. It seems that her father had a negative reaction to her grandmother.

　This didn't just happen during adolescence, it continues to this day.

　If my father had been more flexible, things might have been a little different for me...

　Thinking that much, Koharu opened her eyes and said, "Huh?"

I think he said, "Unlike Soujiro-chan, I didn't have any mysterious powers"?

　Does this mean that Soujiro also has mysterious powers?

　Koharu was convinced that Sojiro was simply someone who understood her grandmother and that, like her father, he did not possess any special powers.

　There's one more thing that bothers me about Koharu...

"Um, Yayoi-san, how long have you known that your grandmother is a 'prayer maid'?"

　Yayoi then said, "That's right," and looked up at the ceiling as if reminiscing on the past.

"I'm originally from Nara, and I married into a pickle shop owner in Gion shortly before Yoshino-san came to Gion."

　Koharu nodded in agreement and leaned forward a little.

　──This is what Yayoi said.

　A little while had passed since Yayoi married into the family of a small pickle shop in Gion.

"The boy from Sakuraan is getting married. Apparently his partner is a young lady from Kamo."

　Such rumors began to spread throughout the town of Gion.

　Shigeru-san, that laid-back guy from Sakuraan, is also getting married.

　There aren't any people my age in this neighborhood, so I hope we can become friends.

　Ah, but if she's a young lady, she might not be interested in me.

　Yayoi was excited as she waited for Yoshino to come and marry her.

　And so, Yoshino finally joined the Japanese goods store, Sakuraan.

　Yayoi was looking forward to it, but when she met Yoshino she was surprised to find that she was even more beautiful than she had expected.

　-- That's no good. If she was a daughter of Kamo and such a beautiful woman, there's no way she'd be friendly with me.

　Yayoi was completely overwhelmed by Yoshino's beauty and the label "young lady."

　It wasn't just Yayoi who felt this way; everyone in the neighborhood seemed to feel the same way, and people around her continued to feel hesitant to talk to Yoshino.

　On the other hand, Yoshino, who was unaware of what was going on in everyone's minds, felt lonely and thought, "The neighbors are very distant."

　──One day, something like that happened.

　Rumors began to spread that a "yakuza" had appeared in Gion town.

　At first, no one took it seriously as a "silly rumor," but after a series of sightings, everyone in the neighborhood became completely frightened, and the rumors led to more rumors, to the point where they could no longer be ignored. The neighborhood association began a full-scale investigation, verifying the reports of witnesses and the rumors, and discovered that the demon appears on "moonless nights."

　Then, a young sake shop owner who was known in the town for being a tough man, volunteered to exorcise the monster, saying, "I'll get rid of that monster myself."

　And so, on a moonless night, the young sake shop owner and his young men from the neighborhood were exploring the town of Gion at midnight when they eventually encountered the "demon."

　As we entered the back alley, a demon appeared, seemingly emerging from the black mist.

　It has the body of a pitch black beast, red eyes, drool dripping from its mouth, and an odor so foul that it makes you instinctively put your hands over your nose and mouth.

　The body, crawling on all fours, was apparently decomposing, as it had melted in places and exposed its bones, with maggots crawling about.

　Truly an oddity.

"Uh, uhhh, uhhhh"

　Instead of defeating the monster, the young master and his men ran home screaming and stayed in bed for a while.

　As a result of this incident, even the geisha began saying things like, "I don't want to go outside on moonless nights," and the town of Gion began to become increasingly chaotic.

　Despite repeated discussions about how something must be done before this frightening story spreads outside the town, everyone remains afraid, and even the task of fire patrols seems to be pushed onto one another.

　Meanwhile, Yoshino suddenly stood up,

"Mr. Shige and I will go on patrol and exterminate the demons," he called out.

　The sudden candidacy of a former young lady who had just married into a Japanese goods store,

"What are you talking about!" everyone in the town was shocked.

"I have to say this because of the current situation, but the Kamo family has been making a living as oracles since ancient times. I am also one of the descendants of the Kamo family. I believe we can definitely get rid of it."

　Although it was a sudden and unexpected statement that was hard to believe,

"That's right, there used to be a priest named Kamo Tadayuki!"

"If a monster has appeared, it's best to leave it to the professionals."

　Desperate for a last resort, everyone entrusted themselves to Yoshino.

　Yayoi, who was also present at the meeting, was shocked by Yoshino's dignified appearance.

"Wow, that's cool," he said, and was completely captivated.

"--And really, after that, Yoshino-san went out into the town on a moonless night and successfully defeated the demon.

　From that day on, peace came to Gion, and Yoshino-san came to be known as the "Prayer Lady of Gion." And they lived happily ever after."

　After finishing talking about that time, Yayoi smiles and narrows her eyes.

「............」

　This, too, is hard to believe.

"That's an amazing story."

　Koharu said this sincerely.

"Right? Souichi-chan, when you were little you used to listen with sparkling eyes, but when you grew up you started saying things like, 'That's a lie about youkai. You're exaggerating,' or 'That's just a delusion.'"

"......Uh, yeah."

　Koharu nodded, saying she could understand her father's feelings.

"Well, it's actually quite rare for a spirit to appear that is visible to normal people."

"...Why would such a spirit exist?"

"The dog's corpse was possessed by the woman's grudge."

　Is there a grudge behind the dog's corpse?

　Koharu tilted her head and Yoshino nodded.

"She was originally a geisha in Gion. A customer fell in love with her at first sight, and they arranged to marry. She was thrilled, but her happiness didn't last long. The man had a family in the countryside, and it turned out the whole talk of marriage was a lie... it was all just a joke. When she went to blame him, crying, an argument broke out, and they got into a scuffle, and in a fit of rage the man killed her and dumped her deep in the mountains.

　"At that time, there was a dog nearby that was dying. A dog that had been tormented by humans and was harboring resentment. The two souls came together here, and thus the sad demon was born."

　Due to a series of tragic coincidences in which the woman, who died with a grudge in her heart, was next to a dog that had been brutally bullied and nearly died by humans, a monster visible to all was born.

　Yoshino's words, spoken with such sincerity, gave a sense of reality.

　And that seems to be a pretty rare occurrence.

"That's true. There are small incidents here and there, but nothing big like that happens very often," Yayoi said with a bit of disappointment.

　"I think it would be best if an incident like a woman's grudge turning into a demon and rotting its body roaming the town never happened," Koharu said, shrugging with a wry smile.

"But you see, Yoshino-san has solved a lot of strange things that happen around here. It was really tough when Ken-chan from behind got possessed by a fox."

　Yayoi leans forward, her eyes shining.

　It seems he really likes this sort of thing.

"Yayoi-san, if you stay that long, you'll get in trouble again."

"You're right. I better get back to the store soon."

　Yayoi finished her tea and quickly stood up.

"Oh, Yayoi-san, thank you for purchasing so many Mini Ayu."

　I hurriedly handed him the paper bag containing the "Mini Ayu" so he wouldn't forget,

"Thank you," he said, bowing and laughing.

"Koharu-chan, you've become a lot brighter."

"Huh?"

"Your voice is clear and your complexion is good."

　Feeling embarrassed to be told that again, Koharu blushed and remained silent.

　Yayoi laughed and said, "That's fine," and walked cheerfully down the narrow streets of Gion, saying, "See you later."

　Koharu walked out of the store and watched Yayoi leave.

　...Come to think of it, I feel like I've become able to speak much more naturally.

　It always seemed like I had the words I wanted to say in my head and then tried my best to say them out loud.

　It may also be because I was surprised by Sojiro's words and actions, and when I tried the delicious sweets he made for me, I was able to blurt out "Delicious!" without even thinking about it.

　Also, because both my grandmother and Sojiro are always so natural, I feel like I'm also slowly returning to my natural self.

　Maybe it really was a good thing that I came here.

　I felt my heart warm as I lined up the products in front of the store.

"Um, um," a customer who was looking at the items on a cart in front of the store called out to me.

　She was a woman with a bob cut who appeared to be in her mid-twenties.

"Oh, yes, welcome."

"I heard what you just said."

"Huh?"

"Um, well... can someone like me, who just happens to be a casual observer, still request an exorcism?"

　When she asked him this hesitantly, Koharu put her hand to her head and said, "Damn."

　--It seems that he felt relieved that there were no customers around and ended up speaking louder.

　I never thought that someone would ask me such a suspicious story.

　Koharu felt herself breaking out into a cold sweat.

"Is something wrong?"

　Yoshino called out from inside the store.

"Uh, yeah, just a bit. C-please."

　Koharu raised the noren curtain with her hand, urging them to come inside.

"Um, you see, Grandma, we have a guest here..."

"After hearing your story, I would like to ask you to exorcise the spirit if possible."

　She said this as if to interrupt Koharu and bowed her head, causing Yoshino to open her eyes wide.

"You asked me to exorcise you?"

"Y-Yes. I would like to ask you to exorcise my mother."

"mother?"

　Koharu and Yoshino's voices came together.

"Yes, my mother passed away last year, but she hasn't been able to rest in peace yet."

　She lowered her eyes sadly.

"...Would you like to sit down and tell me more?"

"--Yes."

　She nodded and sat down in her chair.

　　　　three

　Her name was Ishida Yuko.

　Although she was originally from the Kanto region, she married someone from Osaka and now lives in Osaka.

　As a result, his parents also moved to Kyoto when they retired.

"Last year, my mother fell ill and passed away at the young age of fifty. I was shocked too, but my father was so depressed that I began to worry that I would follow in my mother's footsteps," Yuko said, taking a deep breath.

"I asked him if he wanted to live with me, but he wouldn't agree, and I couldn't go back home very often, so I was worried about what to do. Then one day, I was surprised to hear my father's voice sounding much stronger."

"Have you recovered?"

"...No, that wasn't it. At first, I also thought that he had finally gotten over it. But that wasn't the case," Yuko said, dropping her eyes to the table.

"Wh-what was that about?"

"My father started saying, 'Mommy is at home.' He said, 'Mommy has come back. So you won't be lonely anymore, and don't worry about anything.'"

　Koharu gasped as Yuko looked at her with a bitter expression.

"I was shocked, thinking he had finally gone mad, so I went home, but my father's behavior and eyes were normal. However, he would look at the empty space and say, 'Mom, the azaleas have bloomed. Oh, how beautiful,' and he would follow the nothing there with his eyes, as if something was moving."

　That can't be called "normal," Koharu said with a bitter expression.

"Maybe because he's my father he doesn't want to believe that I've gone mad, but I don't see him as 'crazy'. I think my mother really is still here and my father can see her."

"--So, you want to ask for an exorcism for your mother, huh?"

　Yoshino nodded in understanding.

"That's right."

"...Is that okay with you?"

　Yoshino looked at him with a sharp gaze.

"Yes. I'm sure my mother is sad too."

　Yuko nodded enthusiastically.

"I see..."

　After saying that, Yoshino fell silent for a moment, and Yuko then bowed deeply.

"Please, could you do me a favor?"

　After a moment of silence, Yoshino nodded and said, "That's right."

"Sure. I'll take it."

"Oh, thank you."

"Where is your house?"

　Her grandmother flipped open a book of maps of Kyoto and showed it to her.

"Ah, it's here," she said, pointing to her parents' house.

"...It's a little west of Horikawa-dori Street. I'm thinking of going there tomorrow, but will that be okay?"

"Yes, it's fine. Um, when you visit us, can you say that you're an acquaintance of my mother and have come to offer incense? I think my father would have a negative reaction if I mentioned "exorcism" right from the start."

"That's right. I'll do that."

"Oh, thank you," Yuko's face lit up, as if she had been saved.

"So, what's your mother's name?"

"...My name is Akiko."

"Thank you. I understand."

"Thank you very much."

　Yuko bowed repeatedly as she left the store.

　All the customers suddenly disappeared and the store felt suddenly enveloped in silence.

"--- I lost my father last year too, so I understand how that father feels."

　A whisper escaped from the silence.

　Seeing Yoshino like that, I somehow felt a sense of sadness.

　...It must be truly lonely to lose your lifelong companion.

　Just as the atmosphere in the store became gloomy,

"Hey, Koharu. The Japanese-style macarons are done, so please put them out."

　Soujirou came down from the second floor wearing a white coat and holding a food bat.

"Ah, yes."

　The solemn atmosphere suddenly changes at the sight of Sojiro.

　Koharu quickly put on plastic gloves, took the food tray filled with macarons, and carefully arranged them in a small display case for Japanese sweets.

"Yes, Soujirou. I got a job as a 'prayer priest' and you're going to help out."

　Yoshino said casually, and Soujiro visibly frowned.

"Huh? I'll refuse, I'm not a shrine priest."

"That's true, but exorcisms are your specialty."

"I'm not good at it. Even if I was, I have no intention of helping out with the 'prayer business' or taking it over."

　He makes a gesture of brushing it away, looking uninterested.

　I had thought it was possible, but it seemed that Soujiro also possessed mysterious powers.

"I live on Horikawa Street, so I need someone to let me in."

　Yoshino said sadly,

"...Oh well. This is the only time," Soujirou said, putting his hands on his hips and sighing.

　No matter what, he cares about his mother.

　　　　Four

　--And then, the next afternoon.

　Yoshino, Sojiro, and Koharu left Gion by car to take on the request for an exorcism.

"As always, my car is small."

　While driving, Sojiro muttered with dissatisfaction.

　What everyone is driving now is barely a four-door compact car.

Perhaps it's a reference to Sakuraan, as it's a cute, round, light wagon in a cherry blossom color.

"You don't have to complain every time. Kyoto's roads are narrow, and our parking lot is small, so a light car is fine."

"It's too small for a commercial vehicle."

"It's a wagon, so it's fine."

　Apparently this happens every time they get in the car.

But I think this car is really cute.

　Koharu craned her head from the back seat and said this, and Yoshino nodded happily.

"Right? I like it too."

"Yeah, the ceiling is high, so it's plenty."

　Yoshino, the owner of an adorable Japanese goods store, loves "cute" things.

　This cherry blossom-colored light wagon was apparently purchased as a hobby by Yoshino.

　However, Yoshino does not have a license.

　It was her late husband, Shigeru, who was responsible for driving.

　Ever since Sojiro returned to Gion, he has repeatedly requested a new car, but his requests have been ignored, and he now complains every time he gets in the car.

　Sojiro mainly rides a motorcycle.

　It seems that it's easier to ride a bicycle or motorbike in Kyoto than a car.

"With Koharu here, we have more allies now."

　While Yoshino was smiling mischievously and happily, Soujirou just drove in silence, his mouth pursed.

　The car heads north from Shijo Street along Kawaharawaramachi-dori Street, then turns west along a large side street called Oike-dori Street.

　On the right you can see the retro-modern Kyoto City Hall, and on the left the entrance to Teramachi Machidori Shopping Street.

　Koharu looked out the window excited, seeing Kyoto in a different light from Gion.

"I really don't feel like asking people to exorcise spirits. Most of the time it's just misunderstandings or assumptions."

　Koharu felt bitter when Sojiro muttered this to her.

　It's something my father used to say all the time.

"There are no ghosts. They're just an illusion."

"...Even though you have mysterious powers, Soujirou, you still talk like a father."

"Like a big brother?"

"He always said that ghosts don't exist, that they're just an illusion..."

　My father hates everything from ghostly TV shows to spiritual talk.

"That's typical of Souichi," Yoshino said with a wry smile.

"Well, that's not what I'm talking about. Spirits are everywhere."

"Eh? What?"

"Spirits and thoughts are like dust in the air. They're just invisible to the naked eye. It's almost difficult to find them where they're not."

"R-Really?"

"--- Yes, but in most cases they are harmless. Spiritual disturbances that bring harm to people rarely occur. Most phenomena that are thought to be spiritual disturbances are just imagination."

"Just an assumption?"

"The sound of rapping in the house, something appearing in the photo. Sleep paralysis, a white shadow, a voice coming from somewhere. These are all things that I associate with the 'fear' inside me and with supernatural phenomena."

"But I've seen quite a few ghost photos."

　When I leaned forward a little excitedly, Sojiro held up his hand and said, "That's why."

"I'm not saying that they're all different. Of course, sometimes thoughts can show up in a photograph, but that's extremely rare. Most of the time it's just a trick of the light, or a camera malfunction, such as multiple exposure, where two or more images overlap in one photo, or it's intentional.

　Most rapping sounds are just the house creaking. When you're scared, the grain of the wood on the wall starts to look like a face, and even if you're paralyzed, it's just your brain or body being tired."

"Who was the one who hugged the severing ties monument the other day?"

"That was just because she hugged that thing and received all the negative residual thoughts at once, which made her feel temporarily unwell. It's a bit different to a 'spiritual disturbance'. I'm sure that she is more sensitive to such things than the average person. The kind of people who ask for exorcisms say they see rapping sounds, white shadows, sleep paralysis, poltergeists and all that, but most of the time they're just misunderstandings and assumptions."

　Koharu crossed her arms, wondering if that was really the case.

"So, does that mean that everyone who claims to have seen a ghost is just imagining things?"

"It's common to see or feel them. They're everywhere, like dust, so just like a radio, if you're on the right frequency you can see or feel them. Even if you can see them, there's no need to exorcise them as long as they're not causing any harm. It's rare to be cursed by an evil spirit, and in most cases it's your own mind that's causing the problem."

"...What do you mean?"

"For example, if there was a strong military commander in the Warring States period who killed many people, and those he killed bore great resentment, if that commander was physically and mentally strong, he might not bear such hatred and might live a long life without any worries.

　On the other hand, suppose a good farmer goes into battle for the first time, is reluctant to fight, and ends up killing an enemy, who then says to him, "I'll hate you."

　That person will become worried, be tormented by the ghosts they created, and may even die of exhaustion. In many cases, vengeful spirits are created by people's minds. In the end, what's more frightening than ghosts are living people."

　There was something strangely weight to the explanation, and Koharu was at a loss for words.

　I feel a little jealous that he would say such a reasonable thing even though he always acts so frivolous.

"Then what about Sugawara no Michizane, who struck the Imperial Palace with lightning during the Heian period? Was that also just a coincidence that turned into a vengeful spirit?"

"Hmm, no, I think that's just a rare spiritual disturbance. If a person has the power to strike down lightning on the Imperial Palace, which is supposed to have a strong barrier, due to their grudge even after death, then that means that even a human can become a god. That just goes to show how rare it is."

"...Huh."

　I feel like I understand it well, but at the same time, I still don't really get it.

　After driving west for a while and just past Horikawa-dori, I saw a red flag bearing the words "Shinsensen-en" and a stone torii gate on the right.

　The shrine has an appearance that clearly gives off a sense of history, and a vermilion bridge can be seen beyond the torii gate.

　--Shinsenen.

　I had never heard of the name, but it must be a historic shrine.

　I only had a quick glance, but that's what it seemed like to me.

"Soujirou, head north on Horikawa-dori. You've gone too far."

"--Ah, that's right."

　Sojiro quickly turned around and headed back to Horikawa-dori.

　So I parked my car in a paid parking lot and started walking.

Horikawa-dori is a large street, and many street trees can be seen across the road.

　Apparently, they are planted on either side of a small river.

　That river must be Horikawa.

　As I walked slowly north, my eyes caught a pair of Komakomainu dogs and a stone torii gate.

　A five-pointed star is painted in the center of the torii gate.

"This is the legendary Seimei Shrine."

　Soujirou was dumbfounded as Koharu's eyes lit up.

"What, you've never been here before?"

"Uh, yeah. This place seems far from Gion."

"Well, it's not that close by though. I guess I'll go and pay a visit while I'm here."

"Yeah"

　I then stepped into the grounds of Seimei Shrine.

　Just to the left of the torii gate marked with a pentagram is a small bridge.

　The bridge pillar is inscribed with "Ichijo" on the right side and "Modō" on the left side.

"This must be the famous 'Ichijo Modoribashi' bridge."

"That's right. Being here has purified me a lot."

　As the two of them talked, Koharu fixed her eyes on the small bridge.

"Is it a bridge with a story?"

"Yes, originally it was Ichijo Bridge crossing the Horikawa River. There are many stories behind it, such as a demon woman appearing there and being defeated by a samurai, or the dead beings coming back to life. In the Heisei era, the bridge was rebuilt and a scaled-down version of the original bridge has been restored here."

"...Wow. It's a scaled-down reconstruction, so it's that small."

"If you want to cross, I won't stop you, but since there are ancient thoughts accumulated there, I honestly don't recommend it."

"I'm not brave enough to cross the river just because someone told me that."

　Going further, we came across another torii gate, this time with the inscription "Seimei Shrine" written on it.

　The grounds are filled with pentagrams, giving it a different atmosphere from other shrines.

　There were many school trip students and young women to be seen, and it was a bright and lively place, giving it more of an entertainment venue than a shrine.

"Until recently, it was a small, rundown shrine that nobody knew about. But it has become so popular and lively, I'm sure Seimei would have been very happy."

　Yoshino looked around the temple grounds and narrowed her eyes with a look of amusement.

　The three of them lined up, clapped their hands, and left the shrine.

　Coming out onto Horikawa-dori again, Sojiro stretched and said, "Well, let's go."

　Koharu and Yoshino nodded and headed off to Ishida's house.

　　　　five

"--So, this request was also based on assumptions?"

　As he walked, Sojiro glanced at Yoshino mockingly from the side.

"Well, you'll know when you get there," Yoshino replied simply.

　The Ishida house was a little west of Horikawa-dori. The house was a small, old-fashioned house.

　Since he had said that he had moved to Kyoto after retiring, I assumed he was living in an apartment, but it appears that he had instead purchased a used house.

　Beyond the hedge you can see a small garden and a veranda.

　There was an elderly man sitting on the veranda, likely sunbathing. He was small, with graying hair and glasses.

　Koharu thought he had a kind air about him.

　Behind the man was Yuko, the woman who had visited the store yesterday, and as soon as our eyes met she bowed deeply.

"So you really came, thank you so much."

　Yuko came out into the garden and bowed again over the hedge.

"Well, you promised."

　Yoshino smiled back and called out to Mr. Ishida, an elderly man sitting on the veranda.

"Ishida-san, nice to meet you. My name is Sakurai and I'm a friend of Akiko-san's. I've come to offer my condolences."

　Then Mr. Ishida, who had been sitting on the veranda, slowly stood up and bowed.

"Thank you very much for your trouble. The entrance is at the back," he said, pointing to the back.

　The three of them bowed and said, "Thank you," and headed towards the entrance.

　Although Ishida's house was an old building, it was neat, clean and tidy.

　I'm sure her daughter Yuko comes by regularly to clean the place.

　Koharu, Yoshino and Soujiro placed the boxes of sweets on the altar, then lit some incense and put their hands together in prayer.

　In the photo of Akiko displayed on the Buddhist altar, she has a very gentle and cheerful smile.

　Her eyes and mouth are very similar to Yuko's.

　The gorgeously decorated flowers and numerous offerings suggested that she must have had many friends.

　By the way, what we brought with us was a box of Japanese sweets handmade by Sojiro, including ''Mini Ayu'', which was originally made with Tetemae Mae Miso Soda.

"--Thank you so much for going out of your way to help Akiko."

　After offering incense, Mr. Ishida bowed deeply.

"Thank you so much, Sakurai-san."

　Next, Yuko bows her head behind Mr. Ishida.

"No, I'm late. I'm sorry for your loss. Akiko, it's the first anniversary of your death, isn't it?"

　Yoshino quietly spoke while looking at the Buddhist altar, and Mr. Ishida nodded and said, "Yes."

"We just celebrated the first anniversary of his death last week. I don't know whether this past year has gone by quickly or long."

　He narrowed his eyes as if looking into the distance.

"...I truly understand how you feel. I also lost my husband suddenly last year."

　As Yoshino struck him with her face distorted in pain, he showed a sorrowful expression.

"Is that so? I pray for your soul's happiness."

"Thank you. I'm sure you must be missing me a lot, Ishida-san."

"...Yeah," he nodded, then ruffled his hair.

"But lately I feel like my wife is by my side. I'm sure Sakurai-san's husband is by my side too."

　He said, squinting his eyes behind his glasses.

　He has a very calm and collected demeanor. What he is saying is completely normal, and he doesn't seem to have gone mad like Yuko said.

"Is that so? I wonder if Akiko is still here."

"Yes, I think Sakurai-san is very happy that you came."

"...where do you think he might be?"

　Yoshino asked quietly, and he turned his attention to the veranda.

"I think he's sitting there, looking at me. He looks like he's smiling happily," he said, looking out into the empty space.

　"Dad..." Yuko said, lowering her eyes weakly.

　At first glance, it seems like just ordinary small talk.

　However, in reality, the situation is so serious that it is causing her daughter Yuko concern.

　Is it really Akiko, who has passed away, sitting on that veranda?

　Koharu squinted her eyes but couldn't see anything.

"...Um, Soujiro. Is Akiko really on that veranda?"

　Koharu asked softly in Sojiro's ear.

"No, he's not there."

　Soujiro took a small breath and crossed his arms.

"...Oh, she's not here."

　Koharu was taken aback.

　Well, this is also a case that falls into the category of "preconceptions".

　If that's the case, would it actually be the job of a psychological counselor rather than a "prayer priest"?

　Koharu looked nervously at Yoshino, wondering what she was planning to do.

　Yoshino stared intently out at the veranda, then suddenly muttered something.

"Ishida-san, but Akiko will be returning to heaven soon."

"--What do you mean?"

"Akiko came back temporarily for the first anniversary of his death. The first anniversary is over, and she should have returned home a long time ago, but it seems she missed her husband so much that she stayed longer. However, she should be back soon."

　Yoshino gently told her and Koharu nodded in agreement, "I see."

　This is how they are trying to change their inner mindset.

"...Yes. However, my wife still wants to live here, so she may stay a little longer."

　He quickly looked away, and from his expression it was clear that he had lost his wife of many years and was unable to accept the fact.

"That's true. I think you wanted to stay here forever. But there's nothing you can do now because he has already left. I understand that too, you're feeling sad and upset after losing your husband and don't want to accept it. So...I know this is only because it's someone else's problem, but Ishida-san, if you get too attached to her, Akiko will only end up feeling sadder."

"......Sakurai-san."

　He gave me a confused look.

"It's sad and painful, but we have to accept this death. If you are too sad, Akiko's soul will only suffer. I'm sure it makes me happy that you remember her and speak to her. But if you hang on to her too much, then Akiko won't be able to go to a good place."

"...I think I understand that without you telling me."

　He was on his knees, his fists clenched tightly.

　It was clear that he was having a negative reaction to the words.

"The truth is, Akiko appeared in my dream and asked me to tell my husband. That's why I suddenly came here today."

　Koharu was taken aback when Yoshino brought up such a thing as if it were a last resort.

　Perhaps they have no other choice and are resorting to force.

　Mr. Ishida looked at me as if to say, 'What nonsense.'

"This is something that only the two of us should know about..."

　Yoshino told him in a low voice, and he furrowed his brows without saying anything.

"...It was around this time last year. You bought the Japanese sweet 'Ayu' and brought it to my hospital room, saying it was in season. It was delicious. But I'm sorry I could only eat one bite."

　Yoshino spoke slowly and calmly.

　The intonation has changed to standard Japanese.

"Huh?"

　As if taken by surprise, Mr. Ishida looked back at Yoshino with his eyes wide open.

"...At that time, while we were eating sweetfish, I promised you, 'When you get better and summer comes, let's go to the riverbed of the noble Funabune together and eat real sweetfish,' but I'm sorry I couldn't keep that promise."

　Saying this, Yoshino lowered her eyes sadly.

　He still had his eyes open.

　His body was trembling slightly.

　This was probably something only the two of them knew.

　Yoshino gently stretched out both her hands and placed them on top of his.

"...But that's not all. We had promised to enjoy our retirement together, so I'm sorry that you passed away so soon.

　We had talked about going to Ariuma Onsen for the New Year holidays, and next year was my grandchild's Shichigosan ceremony... I'm really sorry that I have left before you, unable to keep all of our promises."

　To Koharu, Yoshino, smiling and talking, looked like a completely different person.

　Mr. Ishida just stared at Yoshino in a daze.

"But life goes by so quickly. You will be coming here soon, so please make lots of fun memories and when we meet again, I hope you'll tell me lots of stories about your visit. So be sure to visit the riverbed in Kibune and Arima Onsen, as you promised.

　And please watch over my grandchildren as they grow up on my behalf and give them some pocket money from time to time.

　...You're the only grandchild I have left."

　As Yoshino said this, Yuko put her hand over her mouth and let out a sob.

　Perhaps he saw his late mother in Yoshino's appearance.

　--I wonder if Akiko is here after all?

　Or perhaps he received her thoughts like a medium?

　Next to the confused Koharu, Sojiro was watching with a serious look in his eyes.

"...I look forward to the day I can see you again. So please stop dwelling on your sadness and experience all the things I couldn't do before.

　And the next time we meet, I hope you've become an even better person than you are now -- that's what you said, Akiko." Yoshino took a breath and smiled gently.

　Mr. Ishida was silent for a while, then he let out a cry and broke down in tears.

"Akiko!" she exclaimed, placing her forehead against the carpet.

"Dad..."

　Yuko crouched down and stroked his back.

　Koharu's tears also didn't stop and she covered her face with both hands.

　My heart aches when I see him sobbing with his face buried in the carpet.

　This person must have been enduring his sadness alone for a long time.

　In truth, maybe I just wanted to scream out loud and cry like this.

「............」

　Seeing Mr. Ishida break down in tears, everyone stood up without saying a word and decided to leave the house.

　As I quietly walked out the front door,

"Sakurai-san!"

　Yuko came over soon after and bowed deeply with tears in her eyes.

"--Thank you very much."

"Sorry about that. Are you sure you're happy with this?"

　When Yoshino asked this, Yuko nodded enthusiastically.

"Yeah"

"So, are you going to leave like this?"

　As Yoshino continued, Yuko gave a wry smile.

"...As I thought, you understood. You are truly a diviner.

　--Yes, I may have stayed a little too long on the first anniversary of your death, but now I can pass on in peace."

　Koharu is confused by their conversation and looks at Yuko, saying "Huh?"

　Its appearance is translucent, as if it were dissolving into the air.

"Y-Yuko, are you okay?"

　Soujirou then shrugged in exasperation.

"...You were really slow. Only the three of us could see her."

"Y-Yes?"

　So, Yuko is not actually Yuko, but Akiko?

"B-but you're young!"

　Koharu was confused and her eyes wandered.

"Well, after death, a person changes into the appearance they think is the 'best time' for them. That appearance will be around the time you and your husband, Dan Nana, were married."

　Yoshino asked with a mischievous look in her eyes, and Yuko, or rather Akiko, nodded with a smile.

"--Yes. It's not that I had a clear desire to go back to the way I was at this time, but I just naturally ended up like this. Unfortunately, my husband was unable to see me like this. And yet he would look in all sorts of directions, and try his best to tell me I was there. He became so immersed in the delusion he created that he forgot to look forward.

　It was very painful. I thought that as a wife, it would be nice and wonderful for my husband to continue to be attached to me after I died, but that was not the case."

　"I felt so sorry," Akiko said, narrowing her eyes sadly.

　Koharu can't say anything.

"...But he'll be okay now. I'm sure he'll start a new life. And more than anything, I feel relieved that Yoshino told me what I wanted to say. Exorcism isn't just about chanting sutras."

　As she laughs, her body becomes even more transparent.

　Along with this, I noticed that his body began to glow brightly.

"That's right. If that person is satisfied, then that's fine. Sometimes there's no need to recite sutras or prayers."

　Yoshino smiled sweetly.

"--Yes, I feel very comfortable right now. Thank you very much."

　Eventually, the figure disappeared like a scattering of light.

　The air seemed to sparkle and shine. All that remained was a comforting warmth.

"...When I came to this house I regretted accepting the request as I thought it would be a heavy and depressing one, but well, it's good," Sojiro nodded, turning his eyes to Koharu, who was standing in a daze next to him.

"Hey, are you okay, Koharu?"

"Uh, yeah. I was surprised, but..."

　"To be honest, I'm still a little confused," I added in my mind.

"...But first of all, why did Akiko go out of her way to call herself your daughter?"

"You idiot, she pretended to be a living person for you because you didn't think for a second that she was a ghost."

"Oh, that's it!"

"Honestly, I can't tell if Koharu is sharp or dull," Yoshino said, laughing with amusement.

"Grandma is too sharp. By the way, how did you know about their final exchange? Did you ask Akiko?"

"No, it's not. I said, 'It must be something that only the two of you know about,' right? And at that point, Akiko strongly recalled in her mind the idea of ​​'something that only the two of you know about.' That's what I read into her and I just said it."

"I-I see. So you can read it like that?"

"I'm talking about the feelings of the deceased. I can't understand the thoughts of the living."

"I, I see."

　Koharu nodded with a complicated expression.

"But, this request made me sad too. I empathized with it."

　Saying this, Yoshino looked down sadly.

　Koharu understood Yoshino's feelings and her heart was filled with sadness.

"...But, Grandma, you shouldn't be so attached to it. Won't it make the person who died suffer?"

"That's true. I understand the logic behind it," Yoshino said, shrugging.

　It is human nature that even if we understand it logically, we cannot help but feel emotions.

"It has been said since ancient times that when people die, they become stars, and perhaps that is true. Akiko turned into light and disappeared."

"...That's right, that's right. Shigeru-san has also turned to light. Very easily."

"Don't say 'easily' every time," Soujiro said with a laugh.

"Well then, shall we go home?"

　Saying that, he patted Koharu and Yoshino on the back.

"Yeah"

　Walk to the parking.

　A husband who could not accept his wife's death, and a wife who was heartbroken by his condition.

　Upon receiving this message, he broke down in tears, and his wife cried as she rubbed his back.

　However, her husband couldn't see it.

　But we could see it...

　Thinking about this, Koharu felt a frustrating sense of pain grow in her chest.

　--But I clenched my fists.

　Although he is now crying in grief, he will surely take on board the thoughts of his late wife and live his life to the fullest from now on.

　He will probably watch over his grandchildren in place of his wife.

　Koharu narrowed her eyes and thought, "I'm really glad I was able to convey my feelings."

　I've always believed...because of my parents' influence, that being different from others was a bad thing.

　So I felt like something was not right with me.

　But now, things are a little different.

　I realized that being different from others - being able to see and hear things that others can't - can actually save someone's life in this way.

　Still, having been raised by parents who denied the existence of magical powers, I have not come to accept it wholeheartedly. Even now, somewhere in my heart, I still resist it.

　Still, seeing my grandmother save the Ishidas made me realize that I didn't need to blame myself for being different or reject myself as a "heresy."

"Even so, Koharu."

　As he walked, Sojiro gently looked down at Koharu.

"Hmm?" Koharu raised her head and met his gaze.

"...You've started to look me in the eye recently."

"---Uh, yeah, that's right."

"I hope you can lighten your load soon too."

　Sojiro patted his head and he gave a wry smile and nodded.

"thank you......"

　Koharu muttered something under her breath and looked up again.

"You know...for the first time, I've thought maybe I should call my parents."

　Until now, I was scared to talk to my parents or even hear their voices.

　I also felt nervous, worried about what I would do if I was questioned or criticized.

　Above all, I was worried about whether I would be able to express myself properly, so I ended up making all my reports via email.

　But seeing the Ishidas...I finally began to think that if I could touch the love of a family, tell them about my current situation in my own voice, and give them even a little bit of comfort.

"I see. If you call, my brother and sister-in-law will be happy."

"...I think we'd probably only be able to have an awkward conversation with each other."

　But I want to tell you something for now.

　I'm getting used to life in Kyoto, and my grandmother and Sojiro are so kind to me.

　And most importantly, I am in very good health.

　Her eyes began to tear up and Koharu looked up at the sky.

　The clear blue May sky reminded me of Akiko's heart, which had disappeared like a light.