Everything here was deeply influenced by kitsune culture. From the way people dressed, the decorations, the snacks that were given— even the air you breathed was filled with incense sticks.

And you made sure to fit right in. At least as best as you could.

The monks and priestesses began chanting something in what sounded like Japanese. Ayane would later tell you that in this way they'd "send off the spirits of the dead".

"In that occasion," She would also tell you after it was done, "They were also giving small blessings of good fortune for Aneko's journey." It was something Hisashi specifically requested that they do.

Both men and women began to go forth and give their respects. Some would turn around and speak a few words in remembrance, while others would simply bow and return to their places. Of the former, Eisho, followed by Ai, began— the two of them spoke about their deceased daughter. Another kitsune, apparently a half-sister of Aneko (you assumed this was the first child Kasato and Eisho had, if her tomboyish attitude and the occasional unconscious smug expression was anything to go by), talked about what it was like to have Aneko as an older sister. Hisashi followed, wistfully speaking of how much of a handful his granddaughter was even at the best of times and how proud he was of her. To your surprise Ayane elected to only say a few silent words of farewell to the empty casket.

Each of them, even those that didn't say a word, were given a flower. These, both being bright red, were in stark contrast to the subdued colors of the room and its people, lighting up the room like little stars.

When it was your turn, you were given...

>A chrysanthemum.
>A red spider lily.

Just like everyone else in their section.

You found peace and comfort in the repetition. It almost reminded you of clankers working.

Your turn to walk up to the shrine is near. When it arrives, you move up and face one half of the room— where the fluffy tailed family members have taken to claim— and lightly bow. Then you turn to Aneko's close acquaintances— what must've been her business partners and friends— custom and tradition sternly dividing them from the main group, and you grant them another light bow. After this you face the framed picture of Aneko, a small bowl of incense between her image and your being. Its aroma lingers up in a smoky wisp, one of the culprits of the peaceful scent. You grab a pinch of said incense and sprinkle it into another bowl, just as the others had done before you. You repeat this action twice more, then you place the flower you were given into the casket. You return to your seat, politely giving your respects to Ai and Eisho— they bow to you as you bow to them.

Ayane, who is next to you after this is all over, gives you a soft smile. You inwardly feel a sense of relief at her silent reassurance.

Everyone here wasn't a kitsune soon departed afterwards. Well, almost everyone.