Bearclaw Valley Rubadubdub

The deity’s mannerisms didn’t have a shred of timidity or meekness like Keiko’s. She felt his assured and steady gaze upon her. Then, the glacial nod of his mighty skull conveyed an approval of her offering. The allegro tempo of Keiko’s heart made her chest feel like it would burst!

Her pale face beamed! Her purpose in life had been renewed!

Keiko bowed deeply twice in thanks. “Yoroshiku Onegaishimasu,“ she said with sincerity. It is nice to meet you; please take care of me – the words sealed her contract to this forest god. Now, she was bound to him.

Quickly, her imagination began to run wild with ways she could show her devotion to this Kami. A tori gate, a shrine, offerings, anointments, ceremonies, gifts!

Ah, but then she paused, wondering…. “Kami-sama, onamae wa nan desu ka?” she asked, gesturing to him. He had not yet uttered a word, and so Keiko did not expect an answer.... but it would not be polite to never ask.