The lands of the Crane never lacked for beauty.  Indeed, if any could find flaw with the picturesque landscape of rolling hills and gently swaying foliage their lips were forever kept closed.  So it was that the travel to Tsuma could be seen as a pleasant one and a quiet diversion from the bustling life of a figure soon to join the ranks of he samurai.  Time would pass quickly enough for the political maneuvering of the many families gathered.  Elders would argue and petition for the lives of the youth, while the young would jostle for position and notice.  An age-old cycle that would play out next year as it would play out in just a simple day.<br/><br/>A bird quietly passed away the time with song somewhere in the distance.  Imperial roads were well maintained here with frequent patrols so there was little to be concerned with regarding attack.  This was the land that the Emperor envisioned and the one a small group of would-be samurai were blessed to enjoy this day.  An odd assortment really as a Dragon, a Lion and a Crab now took up the pathway to Tsuma.  Each had come from a different land but in the way of so many things now found their path and so Fate shared even if for a brief time.  Ahead of them the road stretched with the fluttering of many flags already seen in the distance.  Each of their Clans was to be found there bickering and fighting, but for now each could enjoy their company without judgement.<br/><br/>A grunting noise could be heard just over a rise.  That grunting complicated with a simple curse and the sound of flesh striking flesh.  Another curse and the sound of wood coming to a crash could be heard and then followed by lazy hoofbeats moving away.<br/><br/>“You foul animal I will sell you to a starving fishermen for the promise of dinner at his house that night!”<br/>