The magistrate turned to look on the man who gave voice to the collected question.  Stern would be an injustice in description of the gaze which settled on him.  Blue eyes promised the piercing of steel and certainly made this man’s wife unenviable in her responsibility to temper him.  Still the dedication and loyalty were there, both unshakeable in their foundation.  Quietly he moved to set his hand upon a yari, poised to stand straight in its stand.  The yari was a symbol of the Daidoji, a testament to their desire to not only defend their Clan but to march onward to clear the path.  Gloved fingers brushed the wood before he gave his answer.<br/><br/>“There are many days yet till the competition begins.  Merchants are gathering across the lands of the Merchant Way so that they can find their best spot.  Ensure that each keeps their marked boundaries and that all arrive as intended.  Negotiations for the placement of their wares have already been handled and so they need to honor their agreements.  Of course merchants do not have the honor of a warrior and so sometimes need to be reminded.  See to it that your insistence is not so harsh as to drive away their business, but stern enough that they know their place.”<br/><br/>With those words the yari was lifted from its holster.  A servant rushed forward to grasp the device while the magistrate moved to pace before them with spear in hand.<br/><br/>“The barracks are located just off the way.  We have made preparations for the sanctity of our fair brethren so that their virtues will not be questioned as they serve our Emperor.  Settle your supplies there and report to your post by morning’s end.  There is much work to be done and many bickering voices to be heard.”<br/>