You rise swiftly from the stream's edge, your kimono sleeves fluttering as you gather your spiritual energy. The tanuki watches in awe as you extend one hand, tracing intricate patterns in the air that glow with faint blue light. With each motion, ancient kanji symbols form and hover momentarily before sinking into the water and banks of the stream.

'These wards will hold against lesser shadows,' you explain as you work, your voice steady despite the unease in your chest. The last symbol - a nine-tailed fox encircled by sacred rope - pulses brightly before vanishing into the earth. Immediately, the air around the stream hums with protective energy, and the willow branches seem to stand straighter.

The tanuki hops excitedly from paw to paw. 'Amazing! But...' it hesitates, big ears drooping slightly, 'will these really stop the Shadow Eater?' You don't answer immediately, watching as the water reflects dancing lights that weren't there before - tiny foxfires now patrolling the newly sanctified area.

From your sleeve, you produce five ofuda talismans, each painted with your personal sigil. Pressing them to strategic trees surrounding the stream, you whisper binding incantations. The paper glows red before fading into the bark. 'These will alert us if anything tries to cross,' you finally reply. 'And give us time to prepare.'

As you complete the final ward, a strange ripple disturbs the stream's surface despite the lack of wind. The water darkens for just a moment, as if something vast moved beneath, before clearing again. You exchange a glance with the tanuki - the wards may not stop the Shadow Eater completely, but they've certainly drawn its attention.