Trials of the Ninja
Randy looked at the town with wonder as he and Nobu walked down to the entrance. From the path through the swamp, he saw a few home roofs and the tip of a frog in a stuffy old suit. The town name was just up ahead along with a strange slogan, like the ones he'd seen in restaurants and stores. Though it seemed a little meaner than the ones from the clown burger place.
"'Wartwood. Slow to accept, slower to respect'." Randy read out loud. "That doesn't sound very friendly. Is this where you live, gramps?" Randy looked at Nobu who only looked at him with a slight chuckle.
"Yep, Wartwood is one of those small towns that likes to keep to itself and often doesn't care much for change." Nobu chuckled as they passed the entrance. "Even with all the yokai and the large beasts that roam the swamp, they are tough ones. But I wouldn't worry about them too much, young one. All you gotta do is do your best and prove yourself as a reliable member of the community." Nobu instructed Randy as they passed different houses and businesses.
Randy wasn't sure what to expect from this. It was nothing like being the new kid in school. He was probably the only person around that even looked like him. Not to mention that some of the frogs that looked at him were kinda scared or freaked by him. As soon as they entered the town, he got a good look at the rest of the town and the statue by the fountain they'd seen as they approached the town. He looked around with wonder at everything his young eyes could feast upon. It was an impressive sight to behold. To him, it felt like being in one of those fantasy books or cartoons he'd seen back home. He walked a little bit around the square, letting everything in. He wanted to memorize everything that was before him. The rustic and charming look of the town's buildings, the sound of the buzzing insects over his head while some were pets or food, the smell of the swamp and the moisture in the air. He made sure to remember everything. He was so enamored by everything that he didn't notice where he was going.
"Whoa, look at this crazy place. It looks like an old fantasy village." Randy accidentally backed up into someone's back, making them drop a box on their toes. "Oh, sorry."
"YOW! Why you little… weird creature?" The frog asked. "What the heck are you? Are you a yokai?"
"What is that thing?"
"It has long thin limbs."
"That's some weird clothes."
"And a bump on his nose."
"And a freaky patch of purple hair?"
"Dang freaks always look weird."
Randy watched everyone looking at him like he was an oddity. All their eyes were on him, wondering what exactly he was. He didn't know what to say or do. He was the odd man out. Even the children around him were not that taller than him or even human now that he looked at it. Part of him wanted to run away from their stares.
"Now, what is going on here?" A large toad wearing a burgundy suit jacket approached the gathering crowd followed by a slightly shorter toad with a light green skin and a pale green underbelly and chin. "Good gravy, what is that creature?! Don't just stand there ya'll, run it out of town! That's how you do it, boy. You get rid of the problems before they get any bigger. Remember that Toadstool." He said to the now named Toadstool.
"You got it, mayor." Toadstool wrote it down in his notebook.
Randy could already see some of them pulling out pitchforks and torches from somewhere to arm themselves. He gulped but stood his ground before Nobu appeared before the growing mob. With a single slam of his sword, he stopped all the frogs from getting any closer to Randy. It was a moment that sent shivers down Randy's spine. The intensity of the look in Nobu's eyes glowed like a dangerous fire. An aura of great gravitas hovered around the old frog as he waited for everyone to calm down. Seeing someone the age of Nobu so easily quelling a mob was something he knew better than to challenge without a plan.
"That's enough of that. Can't you see you're scaring the young one?" Nobu spoke calmly. "He is not a yokai, he's just a lost boy. So put those pitchforks and torches away. Looking at you Saddie Croaker." Nobu pointed to an elderly frog lady with one blind eye.
"Meh, if you say so, Norushi." Mrs. Croaker put out her torch before the mayor spoke up.
"Now look here, Norushi. You may be the protector of this town, and a fancy mystic warrior and all that," the mayor rambled on. "But I am still the mayor of this here town. And I won't allow some strange creature to cause chaos. Because a safe Wartwood is a happy Wartwood." He finished posing for a picture and to kiss a pollywog.
Randy couldn't help but give the mayor a bored look. He narrowed his eyes at him and was about to speak, only for Nobu to stop him.
"Oh yes, you're right, Mr. Mayor. This here is a very dangerous creature indeed." Nobu gestured to Randy. "Look at the thin limbs, the short stature, and the distinct lack of fangs, claws and a long tongue. Randy will definitely be a danger to everyone in Wartwood." Nobu pointed to Randy.
Randy couldn't help but get pissed at the baby talk and mocking he was receiving.
"Hey, I can be pretty dangerous if I want to." Randy puffed his chest, standing up for himself.
The mayor pushed Randy back, knocking him off balance.
"Yeah, it seems he's nothing more than a walking twig," the mayor said, getting everyone to laugh. "Fine, Norushi, you look after him and deal with whatever he or it is."
The mob dispersed, leaving Randy and Nobu alone once more.
Randy got back to his feet with a scowl on his face. He didn't like being pushed around, and he especially didn't appreciate being laughed at. Spotting Nobu's hand before him, he took it.
"What was all that about? I didn't do anything," Randy said. "I apologized to the guy I bumped into. It's not fair."
"Life isn't fair, Randy. Like it or not, you're an oddity in this valley, maybe in all of Amphibia," Nobu explained. "The mayor was just using you as a way to keep the people happy and on his side. Just like I'm sure his deputy, Toadstool, will do so one day."
"I don't get it. What's wrong with me?" Randy asked before some of the kids around him fled. "Okay, so, I'm not like a lot of people here. But why would they obey him? He's not a frog. Those two are toads. Right?"
"I'll explain as we head to my home." Nobu guided Randy as they left the town square. "You see, Randy, the land of Amphibia has been ruled by a long line of kings since ancient times. The latest one being King Andrias Leviathan and he's ruled for over a thousand years."
"A thousand?!" Randy screamed in shock. "How is he alive?! How old do people-frogs live here?!"
"I'm not that old. I'm a generous sixty-year-old," Nobu coughed. "Anyway, Amphibia has what's known as a caste system. Newts, like King Andrias, are at the top and most of them live in Newtopia, the heart of Amphibia. Toads are the most militaristic and warrior-like of the three species and are often the ones that enforce the law. And at the bottom of everything are frogs like myself."
Randy looked at Nobu with disbelief. Even if the old frog was not as young as he once was, he was still amazing. His strength and skill with the blade were amazing. The years of wisdom and ninja secrets that he'd learned and mastered over the years were clearly superior to anything Randy had ever seen. How could someone so skilled and powerful be at the bottom of such an order. There had to be something wrong with all of this.
"But, then why don't you take over and make things better for everyone?" Randy asked. "I mean, you would make a much better leader than a guy that's over a thousand years."
Nobu looked at Randy with intrigue. It had been a long time since he or anyone had spoken about the caste system of their home. Everyone seemed content with the way things had been for so long. But he and his family knew better. That was the burden his family and bloodline had to carry. And yet… Despite everything that Randy had yet to live and experience, he was able to see that there was something wrong with this world. Perhaps this was the result of him being from another world and being new to their ways. Or perhaps that fire inside him told him that this was not something to consider as normal, or right. Nobu sighed as he thought about it a little more. The possibilities had yet to be discovered. But change was coming sooner rather than later.
Randy and Nobu passed by a few farms on the outskirts of Wartwood as they made their way to the home of the older frog. They soon came across a house hidden amongst tall trees. It was a humble shack with what looked like three rooms side by side. It had wooden walls, a boarded roof with moss growing on top of it, a sliding front door and a couple windows scattered about. There was a small vegetable garden in front of the house with some greens growing, like potatoes, carrots, miso and lettuces. It looked like a pleasant spot to hide away from the world and live in peace.
They made their way inside with Nobu gesturing to Randy to take off his shoes.
"If you track mud inside my house, I'll kick your butt." Nobu explained bluntly.
Randy sighed, taking off his shoes, leaving them by the entrance along with Nobu's. He found it annoying, and muttered about getting splinters. However, as soon as his sock covered feet touched the floor, he was met with a pleasant feeling.
The floor was smooth and pleasant to stand on. It felt like he was stepping on some recently varnished hardwood.
"Whoa, it feels so smooth." Randy walked around, feeling more of the wood under his feet.
"Randy, quit playing by the entrance. There's more about Amphibia you need to know before starting on this journey." Nobu called from the other room.
Randy ran towards the room Nobu was waiting for him in. As soon as he entered the room, he was greeted with a dojo room. The floor was clean and smooth, almost shining, the walls were adorned with weapons and scriptures written in a strange language Randy didn't understand. Behind where Nobu kneeled was an altar with the spinning 9-looking symbol in the middle and a strange katana blade being rested upon a rack. Part of him could feel great power and heat coming from it. Almost like it was calling to him. It had the symbol on the guard, a black and red cloth wrapping around the handle and the blade stretched with a single curve at the tip. He looked down at the kneeling frog that had placed his katana as he waited patiently.
"Please, sit down." Nobu gestured.
Randy did as the old frog asked, trying to kneel just like how he was doing.
"Now, I already told you about the frogs, toads and the newts that inhabit Amphibia. There are other groups like salamanders, axolotls, olms, and oni. But the ones you have already met are the yokai. Physical manifestations of nature. Some are guardians, some are threats, but they all have their place in the world," Nobu explained, looking Randy in the eye. "The job of a protector and a mystic warrior like myself is to help maintain the balance between the land and the people. We're meant to defend frogs, toads and newts alike from rampaging yokai as well as defeat bandits and assassins should they become a problem to the people. We're servants of the people. Not the other way around. And we'll fight to our last breath to defend them."
Randy could only look at Nobu in awe at the meaning of what he was saying. It reminded him of the stories of heroes from fairy tales and comics his parents read to him. They were always so cool and Randy couldn't help but want to be like them. Now, it seemed like he had everything to gain by accepting the offer of becoming a ninja. Not only could he be ready to fight whatever was out there, but he would be like the heroes his parents told him about. The fire in his eyes glowed at the possibility of becoming just like Nobu.
"Now that you have heard what I've told you, do you still want to learn the ways of my clan?" Nobu asked, lifting his sword by the sheath.
"Shoob yeah, I'm in!" Randy replied.
Nobu hummed. The look in Randy's eyes flared like a bright flame in the darkness. But it was still young and full of the naivety of youth. All that Randy saw was the chance to wield power and get control of his own life. All glory and no grasp of the responsibility that came with it. Still, he couldn't falter him given his youth and his lack of understanding of the new world he resided in. All the young ones were like that, he knew because he had been like that at one point. But thanks to the teachings of his clan, that fire was tempered and prepared to be a mighty blade.
It was the duty of a master to prepare their students. To help them sharpen their skills for the world and help them better their flaws. Nobu could see the fire inside the young boy and knew that if he wasn't careful with it, it would burn him. Also, there was the chance that Randy was related to that thing. So, he would do as his father and grandfather set out to do with each new generation.
"We shall see." Nobu got up, gesturing to Randy to follow him.
"So, what are we gonna do first?" Randy asked.
"Take you to see where you're at," Nobu replied, trying not to give anything away.
Randy was panting. Even after all the walking they had done to get to the town of Wartwood, Nobu asked him to follow him all the way to the top of the mountain. Climbing up the unbeaten path was being the young human's biggest obstacle. He could get a foothold good enough, but he could not keep up with the older frog. He slipped, managing to catch himself by grabbing a branch. He turned to Nobu who simply continued up the mountain like it was nothing. But he wasn't going to be left behind so easily. He picked up the pace, grabbing hold of the branches that were on his way to help himself up.
Nobu looked back and spotted Randy picking up speed. He was certain that he had fire, but he had to see if he was willing to get burnt. Using his sword, he pointed to where they needed to go.
"Just a little more. Once we get to the top we'll take a short break." Nobu explained. "You think you can keep up with that?"
"Are you kidding? I can do this all day," Randy scoffed. "I'm the cheese in this training."
"Your world must have some strange lingo, Randy." Nobu jumped over a boulder before continuing on their path. "Must be hard to keep up with everyone if you don't understand each other." He hopped ahead of Randy as though he weighed no more than a feather.
Randy just grunted as he did his best to keep up the pace. He kept on climbing and running up to meet up with his master until he managed to catch up with him. Keeping up with the old frog proved to be more challenging than what he was expecting. He'd always assumed old folks were slow and needed help, but the old frog was more than a match for him in speed and stamina.
"Breathe, Randy. You'll run out of energy before we get to the entry point if you don't breathe." Nobu hopped ahead.
"The what?" Randy asked as they came face to face with a tall red shrine gate with moss growing on it. "Whoa, what is this?"
"This is the entrance to the training grounds, Randy." Nobu explained.
"This is the entrance? What was that ten mile hike for?!" Randy asked.
"It was only four miles, and this will help you develop a better condition for the training," Nobu explained. "You didn't think that I would start you off in the toughest part of the training before giving you some actual condition, did you?" Nobu looked at Randy with a raised eyebrow.
Randy, like any other anime protagonist, scratched the back of his head with a sheepish smile.
"First, you will need to improve your breathing. It is one of the key factors that every ninja has to dominate," Nobu said.
"But I breathe just fine-" Randy was cut off as Nobu jumped back into a tree before sprinting around him, leaving afterimages of himself.
Randy tried to follow his movements, but he was surprised by the old frog wrapping a scarf around his waist. He tried to pull it off, but was instead pulled up, strung up like a piñata by the training gate. Swinging helplessly, Randy could see Nobu standing before him with a smirk.
"In order for you to move like a ninja, you need to push your body to its very limits. And breathing in this fashion will grant you that strength." Nobu released Randy, dropping him to the floor. "Get up. Assume the same position as me." Nobu dent his legs, pulling hack his arms before he started breathing deeply. "Take a deep breath, making the air flow through you like a torrent. The stronger your breathing the stronger your body will be. All the oxygen your body requires will be given to you by this breathing. Now do the same as me."
Randy assumed the same position in a somewhat similar manner. However, Nobu pushed him lower down to the ground, spreading his legs apart. Not the most comfortable position, but Randy repeated as Nobu did. Although his mind told him that this was boring, he couldn't help but feel everything was a bit relaxing. He smiled, feeling the world around him. It was nice-
Nobu smacked him in the stomach hard enough to let out all the air from his lungs.
Randy fell down, groaning.
"Right, not enough air. Your posture is too lax. We'll need to work on that." Nobu scratched his chin. "Get up, we still have a lot to do. Tighten your core and have the air flow from your lungs to your blood vessels and then through your body."
Randy nodded, getting back up, getting back to the position, breathing just like Nobu had instructed him. The pain on his stomach hurt worse than that time a soccer ball hit him there. But he wasn't going to give up. He took in a deep breath as he closed his eyes. But this time he knew that Nobu would pull the same trick. He tightened his stomach and his whole upper body as he breathed in deeper and deeper. He peeked at Nobu with one eye, waiting for the chance that he'd pull something.
Every breath he took kept him awake. But nothing happened. They just stood there in that position breathing in and out like they were playing the quiet game. All that accompanied them was the sound of the wind fluttering around them. Randy's eye twitched with boredom and impatience. He wanted to get the jump on the old frog before he could pull it on him.
"Are we just doing this all the-ARCK!" Randy received another blow to the stomach.
"Second lesson, patience is a virtue. It may not be exciting but you need to master it by mastering yourself." Nobu helped Randy back to his feet. "Keep the posture and breathe like I do. Feel all the power of the breathing enveloping your whole body."
Randy rubbed his stomach before taking up the position once more. He was not liking the hits, but every time he made a mistake it was a test. His body ached for action but reminded himself that this was just the first day. Breathing was only the beginning, soon enough he would be getting something more. Something that would make him a badass like his master. A smile started to appear on Randy's face as an idea formed in his head.
"How about a joke?" Randy asked, getting Nobu to look at him with confusion. "We've only talked for a little bit so how about we get some stuff out of the way. You start."
Nobu looked at Randy with even more confusion. He decided that it wasn't such a problem to have small conversation after training had ended.
"Maybe after we get down the mountain," Nobu sighed, only for Randy to take this chance to throw a punch at Nobu's stomach.
Nobu however caught the blow before tossing Randy down the mountain. As Randy bounced and rolled down, Nobu found himself smirking at the trick that his young pupil had pulled.
"You'll need to wake up really early to catch me unprepared, Randy." Nobu resumed his breathing exercises. "Now, get back here to continue."
Randy caught himself falling even further, running up to the entrance with determination and a smile on his face.
"So, what do we do next?" Randy asked. "Some secret martial arts move? I can get in on that one."
"We're going down the mountain." Nobu replied simply.
"Huh?" Randy asked. "Why? We're already here."
"To strengthen muscles. You'll go up and down every day and your body will adapt to it." Nobu explained. "You'll grow in strength and you'll become stronger for the next level of your training."
"So, breathing and running? That it?" Randy asked.
"As you say, that it." Nobu smirked.
"Sounds like a breeze." Randy smirked, welcoming the challenge.
Before Randy knew it, he was rolling down the mountain with no control of where he was going. He rolled down before jumping back to his feet. Screaming in shock and fear, he did his best to run faster and keep himself from rolling down once more. It was painful and his body was screaming from the exercise. Spinning his arms, he tried to keep himself from falling down. But it was harder than what he had expected.
He tripped with a root, falling down to the last bottom stretch, rolling like a runaway ball down to the foot of the mountain. And just as he was about to hit the back of the house, Nobu stopped him with his scarf.
"Not so easy, is it?" Nobu smirked.
"I'll teach you a lesson for this old man," Randy said. "Game on."
Days passed and Randy's training had been going steady and growing. It had been two weeks of going up and down the mountain to perform breathing exercises with Nobu and Randy was improving. The next phase of the training had Randy running down the hill, moving faster through the plants and the trees around him. Nobu was timing his runs, helping him improve on where he faltered. He might've slowed down here and there, but his feet were not stopping anytime soon. Catching onto a branch, he swung down to the next part of the trail. His legs were still screaming from the exercise. But his body had gotten stronger. He jumped over a rock, spotting the bottom of the mountain getting closer with each step. With one more jump, he skidded to a halt at the bottom of the mountain, thinking he'd started to get the hang of this.
However, one thing slipped his mind. His foot got caught on a rope, pulling him up into the air. Letting out a scream of surprise, he tried to figure out what was going on. The blood was rushing to his head as he tried to untie the rope around his legs. He looked down to see Nobu looking up at him.
"Since you seem to be improving on your speed, let us start off with some other exercises to strengthen your core." Nobu gestured to Randy. "Let's start off with 100 pull ups."
"100! Who's keeping count?" Randy grunted.
"You will," Nobu replied. "Now, begin."
Randy sighed. There was no talking him out of that. He pulled his upper body up, trying to reach his toes. But he missed. He tried once more, but no luck. It seemed like gravity was against him.
"You're still in one. Remember, breathe in and breathe out." Nobu instructed.
Randy glared at Nobu but did as he instructed. Breathing in as he went down before breathing out as he went back up. His muscles felt the flow of the air strengthening them, helping him keep on moving through the training. But he was definitely going to feel it in the morning.
"I am so feeling this in the morning," Randy groaned.
"You're only at three!"
A year had passed and Randy was starting to get better in the training. His body was growing stronger as he continued the hard training regiment Nobu had placed him under. Now breathing was easier than before. But his stomach still received blows to the stomach before moving on to the next step of the training. He'd also gotten used to the swamp and the people, somewhat. His body was covered in scratches and his clothes had to be replaced after all the work and intense growth of his ninja training.
Randy pushed himself upwards against the floor and the weight of the rock on his back. It was big and covered in moss, but it was enough to help Randy grow in strength with each push up. Each push was flaring his nostrils with how much air he was sucking in. It was like a fire was breathing life into him and making him go further. His palms dug into the ground below him as he continued pushing himself. It was strange to feel like he had to try harder every time he messed up, but it gave him something to keep on going.
"Thirty… Thirty One… Thirty Two…" Randy pushed himself up and down before something caught his attention.
"AAAHHH!"
Randy pushed off the rock from his back before he ran to the source of the screams. He looked down to see a giant praying mantis attacking a group of frog children. It had them cornered and it would take too long to get his master or any form of help, not like the townsfolk care much about him. It was his job to protect them if he was to be a ninja. He grabbed a nearby rock and a long stick.
"Hey, ugly!" Randy tossed the rock at the mantis, hitting it in the eye. "Pick on someone your own size, you shoob!" Randy grabbed the stick like it was a sword.
The mantis turned to face Randy, flying towards him with its pincers held up high. Randy jumped out of the way of the scythe-like arms as they dug into the ground. He swung his stick at the big bug's leg, annoying it if anything. The mantis quickly swung its arms at Randy, forcing him to run and dodge the attacks of the big bug. But Randy didn't feel the least bit deterred. His eyes looked for anything he could exploit in combat. The stick was strong but not enough to kill the mantis. But it would hurt if he struck where it wasn't armored. Rolling out of the way of a strike, his eyes landed on the joints of the mantis.
"Yo, big green and ugly, how are you planning on getting a full meal if you can't catch anything with those hands?" Randy asked. "Seriously, you are like a walking pair of deadly chopsticks. I bet scratching those itches must be a pain. Or maybe you like that? No judging."
The mantis roared at Randy in pure rage. His taunts did the job and now it was solely focused on attacking. The mantis swung his arms with great speed, forcing Randy to run around and dodge the attacks.
Remembering his master's sword skills and moves, he ducked under another one of the mantis' swings. He lifted his stick, hitting the bug's elbow. As the beast cried in pain, the purple haired boy continued his attacks, hitting the joints of the mantis. The cries of the beast's pain were a good sign.
"Oh yeah, who's the man?" Randy smirked. "I am!" He swung his stick, only for the mantis to catch it this time.
Randy let out a chuckle filled with fear.
The mantis cracked the stick before backhanding Randy away. He landed roughly against the ground, stopping himself with his hands. But he soon saw the mantis getting closer. It then proceeded to approach Randy with a hungry look. But before it could kill him, a swift and almost tender slice cut through the mantis's neck. The large bug fell down as its head rolled.
Nobu had arrived just in time.
"Randy, are you alright?" Nobu asked, checking up on him.
"A little bruised, but feeling fine." Randy smiled, even if his forehead was bleeding from the attack.
"Let's go home." Nobu handed Randy a piece of cloth, putting it over the wound. "That should do before we get it cleaned up at home. You were brave, but very foolish to attack that creature without help."
"Maybe, but those kids are safe," Randy said. "That's the job, isn't it?"
Nobu smiled, it was the job. Maybe there was hope for the young boy in terms of wisdom. The next step of the training would be to teach him how to fight and develop muscles.
Nobu punched the sandbag with intensity, making sure that Randy watched every move that he made. The sand rippled and bounced against his punches before it was almost bent in two by a surprise spinning kick. He jumped back, thrusting a palm strike at the sandbag. Each of his moves was meant to hurt and send the enemy back, but he also made sure to show him how to strike in a non-lethal manner. He stopped the sandbag with his hand, turning to Randy as he stared in amazement.
"A warrior mustn't rely solely on the weapon that they wield," Nobu explained. "The greatest weapon of all is the body of the ninja. With it you can run to or away from an enemy. With it you can defend yourself. And with it you can live. We've strengthened your muscles and body these last few years, now you must learn how to fight with your body that we've trained."
"And then a sword?" Randy asked.
"If you can master the martial arts and learn its key concepts, perhaps." Nobu gestured to Randy to repeat the same thing with the sandbag.
Randy cracked his knuckles with a smirk. Hopping in place, he punched the sandbag just like Nobu. Only he winced, looking at his hands.
"Your punches were too wild. Stretch out your arm and aim at where you're attacking," Nobu instructed, moving Randy's arm to the marked parts of the sandbag. "The first rule of being a ninja is 'Do no harm, unless you mean to do harm, then do lots of harm'. Don't attack blindly or without a proper plan."
"That just sounds like the opposite of what being a butt kicking warrior is all about," Randy said. "I mean, why learn to fight if not to attack?"
"Because sometimes knowing how to fight is the best way to defend yourself." Nobu whacked Randy in the head. "Attacking haphazardly is the same as wasting your energy. A mystic warrior, as well as a ninja, must know how to fight and know when to sheath or in sheath their weapon." Nobu unsheathed his sword, letting Randy see it as well as Nobu's eyes glowing before putting it away.
Randy looked down to his hands and the few cuts he'd gotten from the years of training. He wasn't blind to the one thing his grandpa had that he lacked. The power to become a true mystic warrior was seemingly not in him. Which only proved that he had to try harder.
"You think I will get my own mystic powers, gramps?" Randy asked.
"I am… unsure, Randy." Nobu looked down in shame. "Humans do not appear to have the innate connection to the development of mystic powers. But that does not mean you cannot develop your own, or that you need them to become a great protector and ninja. The effort you put in to grow and improve yourself is worth more than the power itself."
Randy looked down at his hands before nodding in understanding. He started hitting the sandbag as his grandfather had explained with determination. Each blow made the sandbag bounce and it prompted Randy to try harder with each blow. Even if he didn't have Mystic Powers like his grandfather, he would still do his best. He'd grow stronger and stronger to make up for his lack of them. That was his silent vow, that would become the ninja path he'd follow until he gained those powers of his own.
Nobu could see it in Randy's eyes. The fire he has in them is burning bright against the fact he didn't have any mystic powers. He was focused on proving that he could be just like him. Those were the eyes sons often gave their fathers. It made Nobu's heart ache as he remembered that he was the last of the Norushi. But during the two years Randy had been under his care, he'd seen and experienced what it meant to be a grandfather just like his friend Hoppedaiha Plantar. And just like any master would a pupil, he would help Randy grow into the best man he could be, mystic powers or not.
"Well done, Randy."
Randy swung his sword over his head, repeating the motions and the movements that Nobu did next to him. They were training next to a waterfall, using the water next to them as inspiration for their movements. Which worked fine with Randy since Nobu had taught him out to swim.
The wooden sword was hard to grip for Randy but he quickly got a better grip with a larger wooden sword. He stepped forward, swinging the wooden blade through the air like a real sword. The movements were swift and precise. But they still had yet to be tested or fully embraced by the style of the water around him. Randy's breath was warmer than that of amphibians, but he managed to move as swiftly as he could to match water.
"Maintain the flow of your movements. Be like water!" Nobu instructed, spinning around for a strike.
"Easy for you to say, you've been near water a lot longer than me," Randy replied.
"In that case, maybe you should get more acquainted with water." Nobu swept under Randy's leg before tossing him into the waterfall.
"I'll get you for this, old frog!" Randy cried out, falling into the water below.
Going into town often led Randy to getting ogled at and sometimes laughed at. Even after all the years he had lived in Wartwood and the frogs he'd met, there were still those that didn't like him, much less respected him. He sighed as he looked at the list of chores he had to pick up.
"One grocery run shouldn't be that hard," Randy said.
Randy walked into town and made his way towards the grocery store.
"Help!"
His head snapped in the direction of the scream. He spotted old Hopediah Planter wrestling his earnings away from two bandit frogs and a toad that held knives and a club in their hands.
"Give it up, old frog!" The toad yanked at the bag full of coppers.
"Not on your ninny!" Hopediah snapped.
"Then it's your skin-!" One of the frogs was hit in the face by a rock.
The other two turned to see Randy with his wooden sword in hand. He looked at them with fierce determination, ready to fight.
"Leave the old man, now." Randy glared at them.
The two frogs pulled out their knives at Randy, jumping to strike him dead. But Randy rushed at them, hitting them both with a swift swing, sending them with a river-like motion of power. He spun around, dodging the club from the larger toad. He struck the toad behind the leg before spinning underneath the back hand of the club.
"Why you little-AAAHHH!" The toad was struck in the arm by the wooden sword, making them cry out in pain.
The toad roared at Randy only for him to remain strong and ready to fight. He lunged forward at the big brute and swiftly landed several strikes at the toad's face. He spun in place, landing a fast kick to the toad's throat, knocking them out.
People gathered around as Randy grabbed the money bag and handed it back to Hopediah.
"Here you go, Mr. Plantar." Randy watched as the sheriff tied up the three bandits.
"Thank you, Randy. You're a good kid." Hop Pop said. "And please, call me Hop Pop. Everyone does."
"You're welcome, Hop Pop." Randy was then greeted by the thanks and the cheers of the frogs that were around him.
Randy ran down the mountain once more. It had become his exercise that he had to accomplish every morning and night before the day could begin or end. It had been his routine for the last four years and he'd grown to appreciate it. His body was stronger and more adept than it had been back when he'd arrived in Amphibia. Now he could run a good amount of distances without tiring and keep up with the harsh training. But the training had not remained a simple run up and down the mountain at different times of the day.
Snap.
Randy heard something coming from his side. Turning to see a large log coming his way, he jumped over the large chunk of wood, rolling back to his feet. Then the second trap was triggered. Large bamboo sticks sprung up from the ground around him like a giant spider web. But before they could get him, Randy ran up to one of the bamboo sticks, landing a spinning kick that split it in half. Randy jumped through that hole, avoiding the attack.
His time and training often changed thanks to the traps that Nobu placed and scattered throughout the mountain. Each path was different and Randy had to be prepared for curved balls thrown his way.
"A ninja has to always expect the unexpected," Randy said to himself.
Another trap was triggered. Randy's foot broke through a false hole, pulling him into a pit. But he wasn't worried. He threw a red scarf at one of the trees, tying it up before he pulled himself out of the hole. With a laugh in his voice, Randy swung through the air using his scarf like a frog would've used their tongue to move. Spinning in the air with the momentum, he landed on the edge of the entrance to the training grounds. Looking up, he spotted Nobu waiting for him with two swords in his hands.
"I see you've put the scarf to good use," Nobu said.
"Well my tongue can't reach as far as yours so, I had to improvise." Randy twirled the red scarf. "Besides, I can't let you out cool me when I'm just about to hit my teens, gramps." Randy stopped when Nobu showed him the sword.
"Randy, your skills and your growth have shown that you're ready for this next step." Nobu handed Randy his sword. "But in order to see if you're truly ready to go out with me and fulfill missions, there's one more test you must go through." Nobu led Randy deep into the training grounds.
Randy and Nobu continued walking in through the woods surrounding the mountain until they came across a clearing. It was completely devoid of grass or moss. The area seemed to be empty of all life as even the large insects and yokai seemed to avoid it. Randy had spotted many tracks leading away from the area. And yet, at the center of the clearing was a big round boulder with a rope wrapped around it. The air around it made it appear as a testament of great power and endurance against the world around it. It stood like an ancient primordial deity waiting for its call to stand and fight for the world once more. Randy felt drawn to the large stone and couldn't help but touch it.
"Whoa, what is this?" Randy asked, touching the smooth surface.
"This is a Suizuwa boulder, also known as a bell stone. Stones like these are born from the eruptions from the volcano near the center of Amphibia and are heavily attuned with nature around them." Nobu traced his hand on the stone as well. "It is said that the heavens and the elements shape them and even yokai show respect to them. For your final test, you must split this stone with everything I've taught and will teach you."
"W-What? I think I misheard you, split this thing?" Randy asked, pointing to the stone. "That's impossible without Mystic Powers!
"Nothing is impossible with the heart and effort that one puts into things." Nobu poked Randy in the chest. "You are more capable than you let yourself think, Randy. This I know with certainty." Nobu held Randy's arm.
Randy looked at his grandpa before looking at the boulder before them. The mere sight of the smooth stone made him feel like he was looking at a giant mountain. Splitting this would prove that he had what it took to be a Mystic Warrior. And yet, he had none of that power. He was skilled and had survived four years of training and living in Amphibia.
Swing after swing after swing after swing. Randy's hands ached and felt like they were burning with each strike he made against the large stone. His sword bounced against the stone harmlessly after every single attempt he made. He'd tried to strike against any different angles but they were all shown to have the same result. It was like trying to punch a giant marshmallow or a bouncy ball that took everything he threw at it only to be unharmed.
Randy panted as he looked at his sword. There wasn't a scratch on it just like in the stone that was before him. It was mocking him. He looked at his hands, all bruised with cuts, wear and tear from all the swinging he was doing. It almost hurt to hold his sword but he had to continue. He stood up once more, glaring at the stone like he was trying to split it with his mind and glare. The fire in his eyes never dwindled as he continued looking for a way to slice through the damn rock standing before him. Lifting his sword up, he proceeded to tryon once more. With a deep breath, he swung down with all his might. But the blade merely bounced off once more.
"What the juice?" Randy asked. "It's impossible. I'll have a better time cutting down a tree than this stupid thing." Randy punched the rock with his fist.
He winced in pain at the sensation coursing through his hand. Falling on his butt, he sighed in exhaustion. Looking up at the sky, he began to wonder if he was truly cut out to be a ninja like his grandfather. Even if only a few people had Mystic Powers, it had to be better to be a frog than being a stranger in a strange land. He couldn't jump as high as them, his tongue wasn't even close to the length of theirs and he could never connect to the land the same way as they did. Grabbing hold of the music key he'd tied up in a necklace, his mind drifted. What would've happened if he had stayed back on Earth?
"I see that you're taking a break from training," Nobu said.
"Oh, yeah… Not a dent or scratch on it." Randy turned to look at his grandpa before looking back at the stone. "I feel like it's trying to tell me something."
Nobu looked at his grandson's hands and palms. They were hurt from constantly trying to cut through the stone and master the training he'd given him. It amazed him that someone would hold such determination to achieve something that he didn't know if it was possible. Yet, his flame burned bright to keep on going. Perhaps it was time to show him something he needed to learn as the newest member of the Norushi clan.
"Come, Randy. There's something that I wish to show you." Nobu helped Randy to his feet. "There is something that you must know about our clan."
Randy looked at Nobu with curiosity and wonder. His master had long been open about most things he had asked. But the tone with which he spoke at that moment was serious, far more serious than whenever he scolded him. It was something big if it meant that there was more to this.
He followed his grandfather back down to the house before they headed to the dojo. Nobu gestured Randy to kneel as he approached the shrine. The old frog bowed in respect to the shrine before he picked it up and put it down to the side. He opened a secret compartment behind the wall, pulling out a book. It was an old black book with the clan's symbols on the spine. The front cover had red corners on the back and the front, two red circles surrounding a fully red circle with a green mask-like face looking up at the reader.
Nobu turned around, facing Randy. He put the book down between them. Randy took a second to admire it. The book looked old and important. It had dust and scratches on it, but he couldn't help but respect and admire the authority it represented.
"This is the Ninjanomicon. It has been in the Norushi clan since before my grandfather's grandfather was your age," Nobu said. "It has been passed down our clan's line for over 800 years. From master to apprentice, passing down the knowledge at the age of 12 years. In here, you will find the record of techniques, strategies, stories and records of all our ancestors down to the latest generation." Nobu opened up the book, flipping through the pages filled with drawings, sketches and passages filled with the wisdom of his ancestors.
"But we're not related by blood." Randy looked at Nobu.
"Perhaps not. But the bonds we forge are not always biological," Nobu said. "The bonds of found family, friendship, and comradery are just as strong as those of blood. You are not alone in your struggle, Randy. Every single ninja and Mystic Warrior immortalized their wisdom for the future generations to learn from. You're never alone, son."
The cool air surrounded Randy as he knelt down at the top of the mountain. Breathing in deeply, he kept his ears and other senses tuned to the world around him. The vibrations of the forest around him, the sound of the wind, the moisture coming from the swamp, all told Randy that his morning was about to begin. All he needed was the last thing to make him get ready for the next step of his day: The light of the rising sun. His eyes slowly opened up as he felt it. The light of the sun rose up behind him, illuminating his grown body.
Time and training had allowed Randy's body to mature and strengthen faster than most. He thought that it was also partially thanks to the kind of strong nurturing world that Amphibia was apart from its dangers. His hair was much longer than before, reaching past his elbows, he'd grown tall for his age and his body was lean but muscular enough to keep up with the dangers the world had in store for him. But first he needed to pass up a challenge he had yet to overcome.
"Today is the day." Randy picked up his sword before wrapping his scarf around his neck. "Let's do this!"
Randy took off down the mountain, running down the path he'd beaten for seven years of his life. He kept his sword by his side as he ran down, jumping over logs and branches that might trigger some of the traps. His ears perked up, hearing several objects cutting through the air. Without missing a beat, he unsheathed his sword from his side, blocking the first dagger being thrown at him. His movements were so fluid that he quickly moved on to the next dagger and then the next one and then the next one. Like a master swordsman, he had swatted away all the daggers with great skill.
"You'll need to do better than that, grandpa." Randy sheathed his sword back before taking off. "Today is the day I beat you." He took off running to the place where his grandfather was waiting for him.
It seemed like just a week ago he was struggling with running at that speed. But now, he could easily jump over traps and avoid attacks like it was second nature. With a flick of his wrist, he swung with his scarf over the trees, avoiding the swinging logs. He hopped from one to the next one before landing on the ground. His eyes had a determined fire and he was ready to use it.
He soon arrived at the clearing where the stone waited for him. His grandfather sat cross legged on top of the stone, meditating while Randy arrived.
"Are you sure you are ready, Randy?" Nobu asked with his eyes closed.
"I am." Randy bowed respectfully.
"I won't go easy on you," Nobu said.
"I appreciate that, grandpa."
Nobu hopped down from the stone with his sword in hand. It wasn't the first time they had had these kinds of duels but it is the first time Randy had asked for something in exchange for winning. Nobu could not hold him back or tell him no if he was bested. His grandson was still young but his passion and strength burnt brighter than anything he'd ever seen. Amphibia was capable of being unforgivable and he would make sure his son was ready for it. Mystic Warrior or not, he was proud to see him go and find his destiny.
Nobu and Randy bowed before each other, looking at each other with respect. They unsheathed their swords at the same time, assuming their combat stance. Silently, they began circling each other, never taking their eyes off of each other. Neither made the first move. They were both waiting for the other to make their first move. They changed their sword stances as they moved, trying to read the movements of the other. One thing was clear, neither was holding back.
And almost like a sign from the heavens, a single drop of rain came down between them.
Randy made the first move, springing towards Nobu with fire in his eyes. Swinging down his sword, his attack was met with Nobu's own blade, parrying his own. He jumped back as Nobu unleashed his own barrage of slices. Randy parried and blocked the blade strikes, keeping his feet moving back but not running. Swinging back his blade, he pushed Nobu back before they clashed once more.
Their eyes never left each other as they attacked and parried. They pushed each other to see who would bow out first, but even for his age, the old frog wasn't about to give up. Nobu jumped back into the trees, jumping from one to the other in quick succession. Randy kept his eyes moving as his grandpa moved like a spinning river full of fury.
Sensing the incoming danger, Randy rolled out of the way of a spinning sword. He thrusted his sword forward, forcing Nobu to bend back to avoid it. They both spun in a circle, clashing their blades once more. Their movements countered and parried each other like two rivers trying to overpower each other.
Randy stepped up his game, focusing on the breathing. His concentration increased as he kept up with his grandpa. Like drops of a heavy rain, he ran towards Nobu, increasing the speed with each step. His blade clashed with his grandfather's, creating sparks of light in the remaining shadows. They jumped back before charging at each other once more. Their swords were raised high over their heads.
At that moment, Randy felt a fire course through his body. He swung his sword a second faster than Nobu. Nobu dodged out of the way, letting Randy's swing strike the ground.
"Enough." Nobu sheathed his sword.
"What? But I thought-" Randy was interrupted by Nobu pointing back to where he had struck.
Randy's eyes widened at the sight. The large stone that he'd spent so many days striking at now laid split in two with his sword in the middle.
"Your strength and skills have been proven, Randy. You are ready to head out into the world." Nobu nodded as Randy looked at his sword.
"I don't even know where to begin." Randy sheathed his sword. "I know I'm awesome and a badass, but don't feel ready."
"There is a tournament outside the valley for the Eastern Toad Tower," Nobu said. "His name is Sarutobi, he is a good toad. You'll be able to learn much from him. But you will have to prove yourself. And if you ever feel like returning home… You'll be greeted with open arms." Nobu handed Randy a scroll and a black and red mask.
Randy took the two things his grandfather had given him. He hugged the old frog tighter than he could ever grip his sword.
"I'll come visit as soon as I can." Randy looked at his grandpa. "Don't worry, grandpa, the world will have to get ready for Randy Cunningham of Clan Norushi. I will make you proud, grandpa."