The being that was the focus of the Tori-Ji was an interesting mixture of deity and beast, known to the Honnin as Oku-Tori. A normal man had been taken by the god of birds as a channel through which to communicate with the Honnin. The spirit itself had little more intellect than the forest birds it rules, and its life was filled only with the satisfaction of its animal appetites. When it was joined with a man, however, it took on some of his understanding. The spirit could communicate with other men, and it could comprehend their desires. The unfortunate host was driven completely mad by this possession, and nothing of his original character showed once he assumed his role. In return for the strength it derived from their worship and the food they brought to sustain it's host, the god gave