to be well prepared

"I have a moment." He confirmed nodding at the boy.

He moved away some distance, his gait shifting into that of readiness, a practised ease as his muscles relaxed. Beside Toji's entry torii gate there was plenty of room to manoeuvre, the bamboo grew thicker and more dense beyond the invisible threshold. Hattori was keenly aware of the fact that someone out there might be watching them as they spoke, but perhaps a show of strength would remind them to steer well clear of Tojo's lands. That it had capable warriors to defend what was rightfully theirs.

Not giving the boy too long to get comfortable, he came in wide and on the offensive. The silver of his gaze observed is posture, how he tensed in reaction to the blur of orange movement. He left few openings, was mindful of the Kaicho's approach, all good things. But no defence was every full proof, how would he react to a head on assault?