The Dragon encampment was as varied as the stories that surrounded that peculiar Clan. Tatooed monks there were, meditating or talking or playing go. Niten bushi there were also, training or arguing philosophy or technique. Agasha shugenja were having theological arguments or mixing potions. And the Kitsuki were watching everything, sometimes participating, sometimes just observing.

The approach of the little group did not, therefore go unnoticed. A trio of Dragon were waiting for them just outside of the encampment, Kitsuki Fuji, Kitsuki Ryoma, and Mirumoto Yamada.

"Kedo-san, how good to see you again," Kitsuki Fuji bowed, "I do not see Daidoji Sakura-san, though I am pleased to hear that she survived the Seige. Who are your companions?"

 There is a way Kedo has of walking that is quite unlike the controlled and measured stride of most Samurai, drilled to perfection with the precision of countless repetitions, able to move into the flawlessly designed postures of offence and defence without conscious thought - rather his motion is formless yet fluid, utterly balanced at all times and yet as unselfconscious as a cat.

 It is, in fact (unsurprisingly) the selfsame stride shared to a greater or lesser extent by every student of the formless techniques of Mirumoto, schooled to seek to make every motion one from which the sword may take shape and Kedo blends into the eclectic crowd the group is approaching perfectly, only his unshaded colours making him stand out in the least.

 Of course, it was inevitable that they would be intercepted - only the fact that the Dragonfly are not the ones barring the way (which would be hardly diplomatic under the circumstances) is even worthy of remark and Kedo answers the bow of the Kitsuki deeply before offering another to each of the two other Dragon present before answering "The honourable Daidoji-san stands in the comfort of her kin - for the moment may I instead make known to you the most notable Ikoma Hitori-san, whose reputation does little to prepare one for the experience of her company, Asahina Byako-san who seeks interesting questions and Yuudai-san, who knows something of the value of an open mind." - which introductions are as typically Dragonish as they are opaque of course - "In turn, may I introduce Kitsuki Fuji-san who is diligent, Kitsuki Ryoma-san who is forthright and Mirumoto Yamada-san... Who has little patience with ambushers."

Byako bows to each in turn. "It is a pleasure to meet each of you."

After introductions have been made, Byako decides to get right down to business; "I was hoping that you would be willing to give me a glimpse of the way of the philosopher. I have entered the competition, and I do not want to embarrass my competitor by failing to begin the competition."