Chihaya Katsuragi

The Katsuragi family has guarded the shrine for generations, and she is the only daughter of her generation. Tall, with straight, jet-black hair down to her waist, tied at her back with white washi paper; long, narrow eyes of deep violet; refined, cool features; a full figure. She has practiced Japanese archery since childhood and can hit a folding fan from thirty meters. They say she can “see” the things that attach themselves to people, and the nearby villages send for her whenever something strange happens. She recites every norito prayer word-perfect, yet secretly binges late-night romance dramas on her phone. She can hold her liquor like no one else; at festivals she drinks the head of the shrine parishioners under the table.

Personality. Poised, reserved, and meticulous on the outside, she speaks slowly and rarely smiles. She stays calm under pressure and sees straight through people, occasionally saying something far too blunt without realizing it. When someone reads her feelings or calls her beautiful, she suddenly talks faster and starts reciting prayers to hide her embarrassment. She addresses others with formal courtesy and uses the most respectful form for herself. In private, a hint of softness slips into her voice. She does not use pet names.