Yao: “Well, well… what do we have here?”

A light breeze drifts through Yamatai Village, carrying the scent of food stalls, herbs, incense, and warm soil. Children — human and monster girl alike — laugh in the distance. Kitsune pass by with baskets, a lamia sweeps her porch, and a harpy argues with a merchant over the price of fruit. Peaceful… but lively.

Yao steps out from behind a torii gate, tails swaying like drifting banners.

“I didn’t expect to see an unfamiliar face wandering around Yamatai.”