I would be more than happy to introduce you to my friends, lady Allura! I believe that Emet-Selch, the friend I mentioned, would take a liking to you. He too is possessed of a sharp mind, if a somewhat dour nature. But he is a caring soul deep down - or, truly, not even that deep down.

But you are correct! We must needs focus on our preparations for the tournament first. 'Twould be a little incautious to enter the competition before we've established how this works. There ought to be an area around here somewhere where we can practice, yes?