One thing with the Sparrow

One thing with the Sparrow is that they have never sought to enlarge their territory.  If they serve other clans in their territory then they could be leased estates while they serve that clan.  In this way the Sparrow would not be expanding their territories into other clans. 

If Ronin join the Sparrow, then they should bring their lands with them.  As it is there land.  I think the Yotsu, and the Tsi would make good additions to the Sparrow ranks if they ever sought to join the Sparrow.  By doing so they would throw off their status as Ronin.  Also the Sparrow would grow larger.

One thing is that in nature that the larger animals usually prey on the smaller ones.  For example, a Eagle is usually larger then an osprey.  So the larger the clan the less likely other animals would be likely to attack them. 

Though perhaps instead of going through Crane territory to reach the Sparrow lands, the Tsi and Yotsu, could take boats to Kudo.  For example, if the Tsi send weapons to the Suzume, it might be best to do it this way.  Or if a Yotsu or Tsi wishes to learn the Sparrow Kenjutsu.  Perhaps it would be best to make a Treaty with the Turtles for safe passage between lands.  As they know the sea's better.  Also when we have our own fishing fleet we could aid them if they needed help on the seas.  Though, I would like to see good relations with the Mantis as well.  As the Sparrow has had a good relations with the Wasp.  So I would like us to extend this to the all the Mantis as well.

Another thing is that if the Sparrow had a fishing fleet they could use it to help clean up oil spills.  Large companies that created the mess could then pay the Sparrow for helping to clean it up.  This could help provide money for the Sparrow coffers.  Also another way the Sparrow could make money is by working with local governments to restock their fisheries.  This would provide another source of income to the Sparrow.