The sanctity of the ritual storehouse is one of the most prominent elements in the worship of Oyashiro-sama.

Of course, I knew that, since I'm originally from Hinamizawa.

But violating that sanctity is actually a more serious problem than I thought.

Takano-san's research shows that the history of the ritual storehouse goes way back.

The ritual implements within have long been viewed as inviolable objects, which is why it was strictly forbidden to enter.

Takano-san's theory says that Watanagashi was once a public execution, performed to stabilize the reign of the Three Families, rather than a purely religious ritual.

If so, the ritual should hardly be called sacred.

Under those circumstances, the implements should have been despised as symbols of hatred and fear.

When instruments of fear are too visible, it only creates a reign of terror.

But keep them as hidden as possible, and they gain divinity.

Many said they would become tainted if the laymen touched them.

The only reason for that was to preserve their false prestige through secrecy, since they would lose their sanctity if revealed before the common folk.

In other words, the true identity of the ritual storehouse's sacredness... was fear.

That was the true emotion ruling over this village...