Rextelian had given Yume a look of utter confusion as she'd passed him with such familiarity and presence. Despite that, he'd continued on his way after the girl left his eye sight. Almost as if he'd forgotten about her entirely. 

The beastkin stationed along the gates each exchanged uncertain looks. Snow crunched beneath shifting feet as attention settled on the newcomers from Nan Pass. Hiruq and those who stood with him held their ground without aggression, posture firm and composed. Strong, but not threatening.

The blue-and-gold gaze of the man who had spoken earlier drifted across the gathered adventurers. His attention caught briefly on the silver-haired woman withdrawing her hand from Youko, the tension there impossible to miss. His brows lifted faintly, more curious than alarmed, before he stepped closer with an easy calm.

[color=#B8860B]“Have you been here before, miss?”[/color] he asked lightly, his eyes settling on her. [color=#B8860B]“This situation seems familiar.”[/color]

His gaze moved to include the rest of the group.

[color=#B8860B]“You all are here to fight the undead, Right?”[/color]

The way that he asked, it didn't seem like he was actually expecting an answer.

His attention lingered briefly on the small mousekin, curiosity plain, before he moved back towards the group he'd arrived with. Around them, the guards who had hesitated earlier were already moving. Quiet words were exchanged. A pair slipped away to summon someone with authority.

Hiruq inclined his head slightly.

[color=#5F9EA0]“These are allies of mine,”[/color] he said evenly. [color=#5F9EA0]“This is Moo, and several warriors from Nan Pass Village. We have fought the undead ourselves, so we can offer some assistance.”[/color] He introduced those that had come with him, before his attention was drawn down the street by approaching footsteps.

Recognition flickered across Hiruq’s face as the tanuki samurai came into view.

[color=#5F9EA0]“Koyake,”[/color] he called with a grin. [color=#5F9EA0]“You could have traveled with us.”[/color]

He stepped forward, clasping Moo briefly on the shoulder before turning to Yukan and bowing with practiced respect.

[color=#5F9EA0]“This territory is under Yamamoto protection,”[/color] Hiruq continued, glancing back toward the adventurers gathering nearby. [color=#5F9EA0]“They've been dealing with these undead for years now though. If we can help them get rid of them for good, they'll be more willing to discuss alliances with us. Might have to put that fire of yours to good use.”[/color]

As quiet introductions and assessments continued, the beastkin who had departed earlier returned.

A small procession emerged, measured and deliberate. Fox kits in soft, pale kimonos moved ahead, unfurling a long woven rug across the cold stone. Their steps were careful and reverent.

Then she appeared.

The woman who followed moved with a grace untouched by the strain gripping the city. Long white hair flowed freely, bright against the gray sky. Amethyst eyes regarded the gathered figures with calm clarity. A folded fan concealed her mouth and chin as she spoke.

[color=#9370DB]“The Yamamoto clan welcomes our friends of Kurogami and Koyake,”[/color] she said, her voice carrying without effort. [color=#9370DB]“And those who stand with them.”[/color]

Her gaze passed over the assembled adventurers, lingering just long enough on each to acknowledge their presence.

[color=#9370DB]“Were circumstances different, I would offer full hospitality,”[/color] she continued. [color=#9370DB]“But Nan Gau suffers beneath a curse we cannot ignore. We have called upon these warriors to confront the enemy that plagues our land.”[/color]

She turned her attention back to Hiruq and Yukan.

[color=#9370DB]“I fear instead, I must request aid from our friends and neighbors. Will you fight alongside us?”[/color]

The fan shifted slightly.

[color=#9370DB]“You arrive at an opportune moment. Preparations are already underway. By dusk, our forces will move. If you agree to aid us, know that the Yamamoto uphold their honor and repays their debts.”[/color].

The Princess didn't even stay to allow them to speak any further. Hiruq let out a half hearted growl, before he shrugged and looked to everyone gathered. 

[color=#5F9EA0]"As I said, my name is Kurogami Hiruq. This is Moo,"[/color] He paused to motion towards the muscular woman with the antlers. [color=#5F9EA0]"And Koyake Yukan. We'll be fighting along side all of you."[/color] For a moment he let his gaze settle on the mouse, and then Emily. 

[color=#5F9EA0]"Do you already have a battle plan? Have you all discussed what your abilties are?"[/color] He raised a brow. 

[color=#5F9EA0]"I can fight with my claws and fangs. And Shift into my Beast Form if necessary. Do we have a healer among us? The more dead that we leave the stronger the undeads army becomes."[/color]