Akane Motomiya starts her story as a modern high school student violently pulled from her world into a parallel realm mirroring Heian-era Kyoto. This transition occurs alongside classmates Tenma Morimura and Shimon Nagareyama when the demon Akram drags them through a mysterious well into Kyō.

Kyō recognizes her as the Priestess of the Dragon God (Ryuujin no Miko), destined to save the land from the demonic Oni Clan. She wields the power to purify impurities through physical contact, a vital ability against the vengeful spirits plaguing the world. Initially overwhelmed and reluctant about this destiny, she gradually embraces her duty, guided by inherent compassion.

Her path requires uniting the Eight Guardians (Hachiyō), eight men sworn to protect her. These include her transported friends: Tenma, embodying protective loyalty as the Seiryū of Earth, and Shimon, serving as the Suzaku of Earth despite initial mistrust due to his Oni-resembling blond hair and blue eyes. Key allies also encompass the stoic samurai Minamoto no Yorihisa (Seiryū of Heaven), fiery blacksmith Inori (Suzaku of Heaven), noble Fujiwara no Takamichi (Byakko of Heaven), flirtatious general Tachibana no Tomomasa (Byakko of Earth), gentle monk Eisen (Genbu of Heaven), and emotionless onmyōji Abe no Yasuaki (Genbu of Earth).

Her bonds with the guardians strengthen, particularly with Tenma, who harbors unspoken feelings, and Yorihisa, whose unwavering fealty deepens into mutual respect. Tomomasa's lighthearted flirtation shifts to genuine care, while Eisen develops profound affection, evidenced by his willingness to sacrifice his life for her during a cursed harp crisis. The detached Yasuaki forms quiet fondness.

Akane's growth centers on her evolving resolve. Early dependence on her guardians for rescue gives way to increasing proactivity as trials test her—confronting a false priestess, navigating political intrigues, and enduring Akram’s demonic assaults. She learns to harness her purification powers effectively. A pivotal defiance against Akram’s manipulations affirms her commitment to protect humanity.

Kindness, empathy, and unwavering moral conviction define her. She seeks peaceful resolutions, extending compassion even to adversaries—an idealism that sometimes leads into danger but inspires deep loyalty. Despite her heavy destiny, she retains innocence and emotional openness, often moved to tears by suffering or beauty like Eisen’s music.

Her journey uncovers personal ties to Kyō, including the revelation that Tenma’s missing sister may be trapped there. This fuels her determination to restore peace for the realm and her friends. Her story culminates in steadfast leadership against the Oni Clan, solidifying her role as both a symbol of hope and an active force shaping Kyō’s fate.