Originally Posted by
Cyke
Zaofan acknowledges Balon, and steps up to the grand wolf to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with him. Taken aback by the comment the wolf had about Zaofan's own scent, the chef realizes that the wolf's nature is rather straight-forward, but from a style honed from observance and wisdom. That there would be five more schools would normally overload Zaofan's own understanding, since it would upend his expectations. And yet, perhaps that, too, would be a test in and of itself.
"Master Balon is correct. Lady Mara, this journey to reach you may have been arduous, but we started this pilgrimmage knowing full well that the journey was just the beginning. We are ready to meet any challenges because we keep in our hearts the truth -- that there is far beyond what we know, that there is honor in pursuing and preserving this knowledge. Wolves are known to be excellent hunters, and as such we seek that knowledge. But wolves of legend are also known to aid farmers in protecting crops -- we seek to cultivate cultures and understanding for the good of the world. Wolves are beings of power, but the root of that power is itself in creation, in cultivation, in protection. Myself being a traveler, the means to an end can take many twists and turns, but the sights and knowledge to expand one's own horizons -- that alone should make the journey worth the effort."
Eyeing Master Balon and friend Ochazuke, and the martial knowledge between the both of them, Zaofan continues: "My two companions here are storied martial artists and scholars. I myself am merely a traveler passing through without the encyclopedic knowledge of my peers. Those oils and spices that you smell on me did not come from one place, but rather from around the world, seeking and exchanging with peoples I've never met before. Ochazuke here is not just a warrior, but a man of justice and honor. Master Balon is not a teacher, but a father. Individually, each of us are more than the sum of experiences, just like the Five Schools. Just like the Master of Ten Schools. It is from these passions that we seek the truth. It is from our hearts that we seek the truths that only you can provide."