City of Exotic Beasts.

Summary

Kirin and Suzaku discuss their past friendship with a former ally who has now become an enemy. Kirin expresses his need for like-minded comrades rather than loyal subordinates. He seeks help from Uncle Yan, a mask painter, after learning of Qi Ying's betrayal and his possession of a crucial protective rune. Uncle Yan agrees to assist, adopting the name Yan Liang for his role as an elder. They strategize a preemptive strike against Qi Ying, emphasizing the seriousness of their conflict, which Kirin acknowledges as a war between races, where morality is secondary.

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