神隠しのこと

And so, in an effort to weaken the seal of the oni tree, the two of us began to use our power.

However, the two of us were unable to venture anywhere near that tree.

So then------

Though I would have been liable to reach a dead end right away on my own, when the two of us stretched the limits of our knowledge, we produced some unexpectedly good ideas.

By using the villagers who set eyes upon us, we pulled the strings to weaken the tree of the seal.

As we eventually came to use humans made kugutsu by suggestion to carry Ryougetsu, we discovered a number of convenient things.

For example, we could now travel long distances.

For example, it became possible to hide Ryougetsu in places that were normally safe.

For example, Ryougetsu itself could slip inside of barriers------

Of the many villagers we captured by suggestion, we made a number of them into our meals, and thereby replenished our power.

And perhaps, in doing so, we got a bit carried away.

After a measure of time, the village became known by an alternate name as "The Village of Recurring Kamikakushi" and thus an Onikiri-Yaku of the Onikiribe was assigned to this land.

As a result, it became known that we used Ryougetsu as a vessel, and------

To think that in trying to shorten Nushi-sama's seal, that we would be sealed ourselves, we received such a treatment that a mummy could be more fortunate.

he one who sealed us was an Onmyouji of the Onikiribe by the name of Wakasugi, or something similar. Though not the Kashira, it seems they were positioned at a remarkable rank.

However, being sealed was a great annoyance for us, which is why we decided to try our hand at one more suggestion.

If we were to bring a strong suggestion to bear, they would notice and dispel it immediately, so we gave them a weak suggestion, instead.

In a shape with no greater effect than a dream, nevertheless, it repeated itself chronically------

All too rare for masters of illusion such as we, we built our suggestion of kotodama------

---and it became a slow-acting poison.

The ones who sealed our Nushi-sama, En no Gyouja and the Tribe of Moongazers------

En no Gyouja lived scarce longer than a human before he died, but the lot of them still remained. Wagging their tails at the Onikiribe, they continued to live even now.

There could be no better reason to see them slain. Even if it was by the hand of the Oni Slayers, we could still have our revenge.

It would be best if they brought each other down, but I will not wish beyond my means. As long as this suggestion alone takes hold------

Even if that Wakasugi Onmyouji would not commit to the deed, as long as it takes a firm hold, the curse of words will likely pass from child to grandchild.

After all, words are a thing one bequeaths to their children, and to their children's children.

Though I will expect little of it, I merely desire this poison to make a good pass around.

And it pains me to wait long, so let it happen while I remain sealed.

Ahh, the seal of the other side is nigh complete------

And thus, the two of us were closed away inside a deep darkness.