<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/1/13/Keitaro.jpg)</div>Keitaro sat and tried to calm his breathing. He picked up the book beside him, a copy of Akodo's<em>The Sword</em>, and tried to lose himself in it, but his spirit was restless. Instead, he listened to the talk of the other samurai, managing a slight smile at Kotone's kindness to Maseko.<br/><br/>When the Otomo opened the door, Keitaro stood swiftly, his previous discomposure melting away, to be replaced by the stern, martial steadiness common to every Lion bushi. He straightened the weapons in his obi and bowed his head to the samurai who were soon to be his comrades. He paused to allow Shiori to enter before him, then strode forward to follow her, without saying a word.