You must purify the grounds, prepare the offerings, and pray. Aoi follows you like a duckling, providing commentary. If you fail to keep her entertained, her "Ponkotsu Gauge" fills up, leading to accidental disasters (e.g., she spills ink on the shrine records).
You did expect Aoi —your childhood best friend who never left the village.
You expected peace. You expected quiet meditation and sweeping autumn leaves.
It reminds us that "Honobono" (heartwarming) isn't about perfection. It is about finding someone whose flaws fit perfectly into your life. Aoi may be a Ponkotsu, but she is your Ponkotsu.