The initial introductions done, Matisutou looks for the ranking Lion, Akodo Karutsu. He will need to report in to him, as well.

Karutsu is easily found sitting on the docks and watching as the gentle waves come in. The aging Lion seems almost peaceful out here.

Matisutou approaches, making sure he makes noise as he does--don't want to be accused of sneaking, after all--and stands in a position that allows for easy address. When he is acknowledged, he will bow sharply, not quite as low as to the Miya leading the expedition, and will announce himself emphatically again as "Ikoma Matisutou, assigned to the Emperor's Explorers on Furihumu Island."

He is not so loud as to be rude or obnoxious, but he is loud enough to be following the Orders.

The Akodo didn't stand and bow, but he did bow from his seated position before motioning for the Ikoma to sit next to him on the dock. "Ah I had heard that you were coming." He said in a old, but cheerful voice. "Sit, let us talk for a moment about what you shall be doing here with the Explorers."

"Of course, Akodo-sama," Matisutou says and sits, rigidly, in the indicated place.

"This one is trained by the Ikoma," he says, less loudly but still formally, "and has taken instruction in investigative procedures and the exquisite art. Specific tasks are not yet provided, although they are expected soon."

"Investigation? If that is your interest then you will be working under the gaze of Kitsuki Shion, and good luck to you if you are. Yet, she's the one overseeing such things and her talent for noticing when something is out of place is impeccable. Though, explain to me more of this exquisite art? What type of art?"

"Iaijutsu, Akodo-sama," comes the Ikoma's quick reply. "There has been occasion to deploy the art in court on some occasions."

He pauses a moment before asking "Would Akodo-sama suggest reporting to the named Kitsuki Shion following this meeting?"

"Ah, yes. I can't foresee you having to use it too much, but I could be wrong and tensions could potentially rise to that level here." He took a moment before answering the next question.

"Perhaps, but you might also want to enjoy your first few hours on the island in peace. Kitsuki-san can be a bit... rough around the edges. She doesn't seem to care about the finer points of conversation."

"The advice is appreciated, Akodo-sama," Matisutou replies. "What other concerns present themselves for the Lion here, and how may assistance with them be rendered?"

"As in all things, we must see to it that our long-time adversaries do not gain any more influence here than we do. While we do not want to begin any fighting here under the command of the Emperor, that does not mean that we must suffer seeing the Crane flourish." He explained.

"Would Akodo-sama know if any of the Kakita-trained are present?" Matisutou asks. "If not, certain avenues suggest themselves more readily than others."

"As far as I know, there are none. The Crane that are here is a scout and a shugenja that seems to have taken after the Phoenix." He explained. "No duelists so far."

"That simplifies some things," Matisutou says. "And indicates the relative lack of importance the Left Hand ascribes to this."

"They've already lost several people and too many resources to this island over the years. I doubt they're wishing to give too many more until they know it's stable."

Matisutou nods. "Sensible."

He considers for a while before adding "What orders does Akodo-sama have, other than ensuring that the Left Hand does not grab more than its due?"

"What is to be expected of us. We wish to have a military presence on this island regardless of who takes it. Along with that, in order to curry favor with the Emperor, we will help out the Explorers when needed." He explained.

"Of course," comes the Ikoma's reply. "And any other concerns? If there are other things afoot, I would not interfere with them."

"Other concerns would be listed as making sure our men don't die. There is something odd going on with this forest and we want to make sure we make it out no worse for the wear."

"Are after-action reports available, Akodo-sama?" Matisutou asks. "A review of any available would be helpful, were there any."

"You'd need to speak with either Miya-sama or Moto-sama. They both were on the expedition and have the reports. I stayed behind."