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Hitodama are perhaps one of the most familiar of all youkai, simply glowing spheres of spirit-flame with curling, spiraling tails. These are most commonly seen around graveyards and in dark forests at summer, but they can at times been seen elsewhere. Not just the spirits of the departed or expressions of spiritual activity, hitodama may also be used by kitsune as extensions of their own abilities. Whatever their purpose, the various types of spirit-fire spheres are generally similar in appearance and function, for the most part. While some simply mark the resting place of their souls, others like to trick travellers into venturing far from their path, to end up lost in the wilderness. Some of these glowing spheres, as noted before, are used by kitsune for whatever purpose. Some are as before to mislead travellers, and others may be for such utilitarian purposes as lighting or simply appearance. Hitodama have been known to be attracted to those who have great magical potential or power, and they have also been known to dwell around stronger supernatural entities. Because of this they may often be spotted around spirits that fully manifest their forms, or other youkai. Onmyouji and other spiritualists may also take advantage of this, as hitodama are capable of communication as well. In the West, these sorts of lights are often called Will-o'-the-Wisps, and they generally perform the same functions. --By Hushicho of Youkaimura.org