"People of Toyone, your attention please."
Nakatane called out. The crowd grew gradually quieter, and he only spoke again once silence reigned.
"We stand here victorious, despite the odds that were stacked against us. But that victory has come at a cost – as we knew it would."
"These," He motioned toward the funeral pyre, "are some of the bravest men and women to have walked this sacred land of the rising sun, and it is our duty to remember their names for eternity."
"Join me in prayer, as I ask the gods to welcome them into Takamagahara."
Jikouji passed him a flaming torch that he carefully received with both hands before he began the ceremonial chants.
"Gods, forgive the sins of us weak mortals as we beseech you to show benevolence toward us lesser beings."
He paused as he waited for the gathered people to repeat back his chant.
//Author note
Just putting it here because I often find myself ignoring the designated authors thought when I'm reading.
As forecast, Gengyo has stepped up in the world. What this means is, of course, an even more exciting novel, as he has more opportunities as a character. What I have planned is exciting even me, and I can't wait to right it.
Also, I want to thank you. The support over this last week has been incredible. I think, perhaps, you are one of the best - if not the best - fanbase on this entire platform. We didn't quite meet out 250 powerstones goal... but that's okay! I think we'll definitely meet it this week! How about, we keep it lower, and shoot for 260? I'm pretty confident we can get this, as the amount of followers has increased substantially since last week! And as always, if we manage it, I'll release two bonus chapters on sunday ^_^.
Thank you