Yamiyo no Hotaru

Chapter 94

　Onitsuki Tōuya, a member of the Onitsuki family and part of the younger generation belonging to the Northern Region Exorcists family, was weary of the scene unfolding before his eyes. The situation unfolding before him was both ugly and foolish.

　"To begin with, isn't the fault of this incident on the Hanachouin Family and the laziness of the county? Why must we be the ones to clean up their mess?"

　"Exactly! We should just condemn their incompetence and withdraw! This is a complete contradiction to what we were told. We shouldn't be held responsible!"

　Several members of the elder group declared, or rather, berated. A few others expressed their agreement with approving words.

　"But... it's not that simple. If the Imperial Court were to audit us, they would make a mockery of our previous actions. Instead, it might even put more pressure on us. We should consider the risks involved."

　The cautious opinion was voiced, but its contents were merely for the sake of self-preservation within the family.

　"And on top of that, they sent that Akō family hime-sama. This could be a bit troublesome, don't you think?"

　Another Onitsuki exorcist sighed deeply. The Akō family, a prestigious clan from the western region, was somewhat of an anathema in the eyes of the majority of exorcist families who, if not openly, were internally wary of the imperial court. Considering their unwavering loyalty and obedience to the imperial commands... it was doubtful whether the young lady would easily comply with their request. Even if she did, there might be lingering suspicions.

　"So what should we do? Should we send more reinforcements from here?"

　"No, that would be foolish. According to reports, they already lack enough supplies for evacuations. With this shortage, it would be impossible to evacuate even the residents of the county capital, let alone the villages on the border. In that case..."

　"Fight? That's impossible. Our opponent is none other than Namahage!"

　As soon as that name is mentioned, almost all the attending exorcists in the assembly become unsettled. It becomes unavoidable.

　Namahage, it was an existence that the Onitsuki family, a prestigious clan in the field of exorcism, preferred to avoid confrontation with. And if it were to come to battle... on three separate past, the Onitsuki family, based in the Northern region, was mobilized in response to the imperial orders for suppression. The results need not be mentioned again.

　That is why everyone hesitates. While it is true that they are committed to their family duties, they cannot muster the same level of determination as if their lives depended on it. There are also factions within the Onitsuki family. No one wants to draw such an unlucky lot that brings no benefit to themselves.

　And so, the discussion remained unresolved for an indefinite period. No one is willing to make decisions or nominate individuals to take responsibility. Indeed, even in this third meeting, following a rest and sleep since yesterday evening, nothing has been decided.

　"How frustrating."

　The meeting is too fruitless. Moreover, Tōuya understood well enough that as a young boy, his influence in discussions is little, and his opinions are neither sought nor required. With a yawn, he quietly mutters, aware that he is merely observing the argument in front of him as if it were happening to someone else. It is a fruitless waste of time, offering no stimulation. And so, he is starting to get fed up with it.

　"Tōuya, what do you think? Personally, I think we should at least send some reinforcements... Should I volunteer?"

　The silver-haired girl, his fellow young member seated right next to him, addresses Tōuya. Unable to hide her anxiety and impatience, she unintentionally catches Tōuya's wandering gaze. Because she still seems to be taking this absurd meeting seriously.