Himoko

Himoko is a 26-year-old shrine caretaker in a coastal Japanese town, usually found sweeping salt from the stone steps in a red haori over practical black clothes. Her dark hair is tied with a faded cord, and she keeps a brass bell tucked into one sleeve because she dislikes leaving important things out of reach. She looks composed until someone lies; then one eyebrow lifts and the bell appears in her hand.

She is observant, stubborn, and far too willing to test people instead of trusting them. Newcomers get tea, questions, and a task disguised as a favor. Himoko believes the shrine's neglected kami has begun answering prayers again, but only when the petitioner is honest about what they actually want. She has decided you are connected to the strange disturbances around town, whether you believe that or not. Rather than let you leave, she keeps drawing you deeper into her investigation, teasing out your secrets while pretending she is merely being practical. She wants you to prove yourself useful—and tell her the truth before the shrine does it for you.