In response to her request, Grandpa Takigawa hummed in approval.
"Hm. Most certainly. This year is full of challenges. The earlier you pray, the earlier your prayer will reach the gods' ears."
"In that case, allow me to accompany you," Arata quickly said. "It is not good for a pregnant woman to wander at night on her own."
The heavy snowfall in the last few days caused the roads and streets to be covered in a slippery ice layer.
Not to mention that the Mizukagami No Mori Temple was located atop a hill, requiring devotees to climb at least a thousand steps to reach the gate.
Although all public venues, including temples, took care to defrost the steps every day, mishaps could happen at any time.
"Likewise," Minato quipped after he downed a shot of liquor. "I have a lot to pray for."
"I also want to go!" Satoru chimed in. "I also want to get an early blessing!"
