Gate Deities of The Underworld

The Gate Deities of The Underworld (冥界の門の神々, Meikai no mon no kamigami) refers to a group of beings with incredible power, hailed as the strongest in their respective era. The title has been held by a few and is greatly respected by the entire Shinobi world.
Only the following have been given this monicker:
* Yoshiko Ōtsutsuki - The Eternal Warden 
* Aiko - The Guardian of Souls 
* Ryo - The Keeper of Balance 
* Mika - The Flame of Purity 
* Hiro - The Seer of Shadows 
* Sakura - The Weaver of Fate 
* Jiro - The Sentinel of Time 
* Natsuki - The Herald of the Dawn 
* Taro - The Keeper of Secrets 
* Yumi - The Shielder of Peace 
====Overview ====
The Gate Deities of The Underworld are ten revered deities tasked with guarding the outer celestial realm and protecting Earth from malevolent forces that seek to breach the boundary between the mortal world and the underworld. These deities hold the sacred responsibility of maintaining the balance between life and death, and ensuring that the underworld remains sealed against any threats from beyond.
====Origins====
Legends say that the Gate Deities were born from the primordial chaos that existed before the universe took shape. They were created by the Great Cosmic Spirit, who infused them with the essence of both creation and destruction. As the cosmos evolved, these deities were assigned to oversee the celestial gates that separate the living world from the realms of the dead.
====The Ten Deities====
# Yoshiko Ōtsutsuki, The Eternal Warden Role: Leader of the Gate Deities and overseer of the main celestial gate. Yoshiko is known for her unwavering vigilance and indomitable strength.
# Aiko, The Guardian of Souls Role: Protector of the souls traveling to the underworld. Aiko ensures that no souls are lost or corrupted during their journey.
# Ryo, The Keeper of Balance Role: Maintains the equilibrium between the living and the dead, ensuring that neither realm overpowers the other.
# Mika, The Flame of Purity Role: Guards against dark spirits and entities that seek to corrupt the underworld. Her flames purify and banish malevolent forces.
# Hiro, The Seer of Shadows Role: Possesses the ability to foresee potential breaches in the celestial gates. Hiro uses his foresight to prevent disasters before they occur.
# Sakura, The Weaver of Fate Role: Oversees the weaving of destinies for souls entering the underworld. Sakura ensures that each soul finds its rightful place according to their deeds.
# Jiro, The Sentinel of Time Role: Monitors the flow of time within the underworld to prevent any disturbances that could impact the mortal world.
# Natsuki, The Herald of the Dawn Role: Announces the arrival of new souls and prepares them for their journey. Natsuki brings hope and guidance to those crossing over.
# Taro, The Keeper of Secrets Role: Holds the sacred knowledge of the underworld and its mysteries. Taro ensures that this knowledge remains protected from those who would misuse it.
# Yumi, The Shielder of Peace Role: Maintains harmony within the underworld and resolves conflicts among the souls. Yumi ensures that the realm remains a place of rest and tranquillity.
==== Duties and Responsibilities ====
Each Gate Deity is assigned to specific aspects of their duties, yet they work in harmony to safeguard the celestial gates. Their responsibilities include monitoring the boundaries, intervening in celestial disturbances, and maintaining the integrity of the underworld. Together, they form a divine council that oversees the cosmic order and protects the delicate balance between life and death.
==== Worship and Influence ====
The Gate Deities are venerated in various rituals and ceremonies intended to honor their protection and seek their guidance. Temples dedicated to these deities are often located at sacred sites believed to be points of convergence between the celestial and mortal realms. Offerings and prayers are made to ensure their continued vigilance and to seek their favor in times of need.
==== Legacy ====
The Gate Deities of The Underworld are symbols of divine guardianship and balance. Their legacy is a testament to the ancient belief in the interconnectedness of all realms and the eternal vigilance required to maintain cosmic harmony.