[i]The words of the Shima Clan's Daimyo rang through Tarou's ears, his ears perked up, and tail swishing left and right in an excited way.  Many times in the past had the Sasaki Clan brought honor to their family, but none would be greater than this.  For years, Tarou had never understood the reasoning to the Sasaki Clan's love for the Shima, but he understood it today.  It was a tight friendship and if it was not for them, they would still be a brutish and bloodthirsty clan, as well as an enemy of the Shima Clan.  He felt gratitude for being allowed on this quest by the Shima Daimyo and was ready to take on this journey, no matter how dangerous it was.[/i]

After the ceremony, he approached the Daimyo and bowed to him.  "[color=39b54a][i][b]As The Rising Sun of the Sasaki Clan, I hope that my service will increase friendship between our peoples.  May your rule, family, and clan continue to live in prosperity, My Lord.[/b][/i][/color]"  He bowed once more, as much as he could, as a sign of great respect and trust.  He was, after all, a most beloved friend of the Sasaki Clan.  "[color=39b54a][i][b]I shall do everything in my power to aid you in your time of need.[/b][/i][/color]"  He then turned to meet his partners, the ones that he was eager to greet.

At first, Tarou was unsure of how to approach them, since they all came from different backgrounds.  Of course, one man would break the ice.  He would bring encouragement to Tarou.  Of course, Yuudai would bully him in a friendly manner.  Tarou laughed, giving Yuudai a pat on the back, "[color=39b54a][b][i]Be any more rougher with him and you'll kill the poor man.[/i][/b][/color]  He only chuckled more until he was approached by the very same man, grabbing onto Tarou's shoulders, and asking him for one thing: "[color=0054a6][i][b]I ask for the speed and cunning of the Sasaki Clan's heir and in return I give you and your clan The Dog's loyalty.[/b][/i][/color]"  Jiang Baji said to him, which made Tarou smile.  "[color=39b54a][i][b]You are a strange individual, but I will give you these things my friend, that is a promise.[/b][/i][/color]  Tarou thought for a second, wondering more about the lost artifacts as he began to think to himself.  Who could have taken them and for what purpose?  He felt a need to confront the Daimyo straight away, as his scholarly side took over him.  "[color=39b54a][i][b]Lord Shima, I have a question, if you do not mind.  I was wondering if you had any evidence on these people that took them.  Surely they must have left some clues behind?[/b][/i][/color]  He took out a small parchment of paper and a quill, ready to write down anything that Lord Shima had for him.