At what point does a player win or lose a conflict, such as in the Lion Clan's Ikoma Eiji's ability, "When you lose a political conflict -"? The Rules Reference lists the timing breakdown as:
"3.2.1 Declare defenders.
3.2.2 CONFLICT ACTION WINDOW (Defender has first opportunity)
3.2.3 Compare skill values.
3.2.4 Apply unopposed.
3.2.5 Break province.
3.2.6 Resolve ring effects.
3.2.7 Claim ring.
3.2.8 Return home. Go to (3.3)."
What is the appropriate time to activate Eiji's ability?