Kyuden Shika

"Oh... could you show me how can one protect a stone?" She paid close attention. "How would one begin a game? Maybe show me a sample."

He played with both colors, showing placement and explaining the need for liberties, open spaces that kept stones from being captured, He also showed how, with careful placement, liberties could be maintained that could not be taken, ensuring the safety of a group.

"It is very simple, in concept." he said. "But, it can become quite complex, depending on your opponent."

"Simple things can get complicated." Oubaihime giggled. "Let's give it a try..." She said with a little of excitement.

"Alright." he smiled. "This is a small board, so it should be simpler. Would you like black or white?"

Oubahime likes to be somewhat defensive so. "White... so you can show me a bit more." She nodded taking the white stones.

"Alright." He placed a stone near one corner of the board. "You can place yours wherever you'd like."

She gave it some thought and placed it on a point not close to the corner yet not too far. "I hope that is good."

"I is a good place. Of course, how good it will depend on how the game progresses." He placed a stone next to his first one. "Often, the first few moves are used to establish a stronghold of sorts, safely claiming some territory before expanding to other areas."

She placed another stone next to the first one. "Oh that is good to know... so Dragon sama... how do you think you'll do in this miai?"

"I do not know." he admitted. "I only hope that whatever match is made is pleasant for both of us. What are your thoughts of it?"

Another stone was set.