Kotego was an eta in the Crane Clan responsible for the deaths of at least two dozen women and children for his maho research and rituals. When the murders first began, a minor functionary of the Asahina family was executed for practicing maho, but when the murders continued his superiors came under question. Six samurai were dishonored or killed before magistrates decided an underground cult was responsible. Ignoring help from Kuni Witch Hunters, the murders finally ceased when Kotego died. Under his house were tunnels filled with maho research and materials for rituals.