Shrines
The main sacred locations in Crossroads.
Fox Pagoda
-- Unknown
Behind the Colosseum, you would think the roars of the crowd would intrude on this sacred space. Yet, for some reason, the voices of the masses cannot be heard here, only the wind rustling the many chimes hanging from the eaves and from the trees... This is a place of worship, not of revelry. Residents, Crossguards, even Miss X herself visit this place to pay their respects. HistoryA small saisen made of pine sits in front of the shrine's altar. On the path up to the pagoda, and to the left and right of the main entrance are large, stone-carved kitsune statues. They guard those making their way to the shrine, as well as the shrine itself. The altar is adorned with offerings from townsfolk and crossguards--usually small amounts of money, handmade fox dolls, and bottles of alcohol.
A common offering from children and adults alike is one of the many windchimes suspended in the eaves and trees--the paper hanging from them containing well wishes. Each chime represents a prayer, a wish, or a token of gratitude offered to The God Eater. The soft tinkling of the chimes creates an ethereal soundscape, a gentle reminder of the deity's benevolent presence. It is rumored the chimes are the God Eater's favorite sound! Visitors often pray to the God Eater herself in times of need, or at the beginning of a new year. The shrine dedicated to The God Eater is not just a place of worship; it is a living testament to the deep bond between the people of Crossroads and the divine protector who watches over them.
Locals say that the God Eater spends her days on the very top floor of the pagoda--accessible only to the very few lucky visitors to her shrine. She's fickle, though, and a glimpse of her is few and far between. Even some of the oldest residents of Crossroads have never seen her. Want to test your luck? |
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Gallery
Fox Pagoda Palette |
Author's Notes
Oni Shrine
-- Unknown
Tired after a long day of fighting in the colosseum? Bathe in the hot spring! Legs hurt from training to beat your next opponent? Bathe in the hot spring. Sore after running after Miss X for an autograph? Bathe in the hot spring. The springs at Oni Shrine heal all, take Tenki's word for it. HistoryHot water, falling snow... the mix of frigid air and steaming water does the body good. But wait--why is it only snowing here? Well, thank Tenki for that! As one of his favorite places in Crossroads to lounge (and nap, sprawl, unwind, laze about, doze...), the weather dragon blessed this shrine with perfect snowfall, year round!
So unwind, and let all the tension in your muscles melt away as you luxuriate in the steaming water--just watch your step, you might step on a certain dragon's tail.
There has been a strange rumor swirling around here... supposedly, several visitors have been overcome with the vision of a purple-haired man standing beside them, whispering in their ears... these visitors have apparently lashed out at other bathers, in a fit of rage. But that's just a rumor, after all! |
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Gallery
Oni Shrine Palette |
Author's Notes
Sacred Forest
-- Unknown
It seems to be permanently evening within this eerie forest... Perhaps it's the thickly grown trees-- their branches and leaves intertwined above so densely that every mote of light is blocked out. Locals stay far away from this woodland, taking the surrounding paths on their way to the Oni Shrine or Fox Pagoda. Signs of warning are posted about, yet inevitably visitors ignore them... some make it out with fantastic stories of speaking with wisp-like spirits, and others are never seen again. HistoryAn area avoided by all who inhabit Crossroads, except for the unwise. A strange breeze blows through Sacred Forest, and there seem to be eyes watching from all around--hungry and curious. Multicolored spirits, wisp-like in shape, float aimlessly through the trees. Some are silent, some wail in sorrow, and others tell travelers of the life they lived. These wisps, however, are not the only things to wander these woods. The remains of a once-great demonic army, covered head to toe in grotesque eyes, stalk these grounds. They go after the spirits for snacks, but these demonic beats prefer a fresh meal. After one too many visitors had gone missing, locals posted up signs around the forest, warning of the dangers within. It's up to you, however, to heed them. |
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Gallery
Sacred Forest Palette |
Author's Notes
Mt. Mei
-- Unknown
After an arduous hike up the side of Mt. Mei, the view is spectacular. The view is Crossroads is hazy, the air is crisp, and the pale sky above gives everything an otherworldly atmosphere. The breeze blows endlessly, giving hikers a refreshing chill, and no wildlife can be heard. HistoryIt takes a dedicated soul to climb to the peak of Mt. Mei, but all who have claim that the view is worth it! Breathtaking, panoramic scenery, crisp mountain air... Oh, and the ghost girl, of course. No one is sure if she's just a rumor, an elaborate prank, or a result of the thin air and exhaustion experienced by hikers. Regardless, all who scale Mt. Mei return with stories of a pale, spirit girl who will chat shyly with hikers until they take their leave. Pale blue hair, wispy purple dress... she seems to have good intentions. Rumor has it that the God Eater regards her as a close friend. |
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Gallery
Mt. Mei Palette |