Lone Warrior and the Three Calamities (AmphibiaxRC9GN)

Summary:

It is a long, long road to the top...

Tower Days

Randy hadn't been out of Frog Valley all that much while growing up, but he had never traveled this far east. The whole area felt different around him as he made his way down the road over the rice fields of the nearby villages. The air smelled cleaner with the scent of cherry blossoms in the spring. The roads were covered with just enough moss to make them look serene. The water seemed so at peace that the large beasts didn't even dare to make it ripple. But giant monsters aside, everything in nature looked as mystical and beautiful as the rest of Amphibia. The towns that Randy had passed all carried themselves with an unspoken nobility to them. They reminded him a lot of his grandpa's home. Maybe he should ask some of the architects to let him borrow some of their designs and plans and give Wartwood a facelift. It would be a good thing to have, and hopefully Toadstool would not try to skim on the expenses.

Picking up a long blade of grass, Randy felt like he was finally getting ready for the next step on his journey. Even the basket weaved hat on his head made him feel more at home.

"Alright, according to grandpa, the Easter Toad Tower should be right up ahead." Randy looked down at the map his grandpa had handed him. "And there's where I'll find Sarutobi."

"Hey! Buddy!"

Randy looked around for the source of the voice, his hand already gripping his sword. The last time anyone had called him out like that, he had been chased by a yokai that tried to take his soul. But he didn't see anyone around him.

"Up here."

Randy turned around, looking up at the trees. Right there, hanging from some branches as some bird-flies buzzed around it was a young orange toad with orange hair. Wearing a blue kamishimo shirt and brown pants and a white jacket, he looked like an apprentice warrior or at least someone of relative importance. He especially considered that being the case given how chubby he was. He was tied up by a rope that looked about to snap the branches it was tied to.

"Hey, um, I don't suppose I could bother you to cut me down from here?" He asked. "I mean, I'd do it myself but um, my sword is down there and my hands are tied." He looked down to his tied up body hoping to gather some sympathy.

"How did you end up tied upside down?" Randy asked.

"Well, I won't bore you with the details, but let's just say that some other toads decided I'd look like a nice tree decoration." He rolled his eyes. "Are you gonna get me down or what? I think I'm seeing double."

Randy looked around, making sure that he was alone before jumping up the tree. He slowly climbed up until he was face to face with the toad.

"So, why are you a 'tree decoration'?" Randy unsheathed his sword. "You look somewhat important, I'm guessing that this wasn't a common robbery or your sword would be long gone." He got ready to cut the rope with one swing. "Try to swing with your tongue if you can."

"That's easYYYYYY-!"

He fell down like a sack of bricks.

"I told you to swing." Randy swung down with his scarf.

Landing next to the toad, he helped him get his bearings and finished untying him.

"Thanks, man. Ouch, give a toad a warning before-whoa!" The toad finally got a good look at Randy. "You are way uglier than I thought. And I thought that when the blood was rushing down my head. What are you?"

"The name is Randy. Randy Cunningham from Wartwood." Randy sheathed his sword. "What's your name?"

"Howard. Howard Weinerman." Howard shook hands with Randy. "As to why I was hung up there, there were some other toads going to the tournament and thought better get me out of the way before-"

"Tournament? The Tournament at the Eastern Toad Tower? That's where you're heading?" Randy asked.

"Sort of, I'm not much of a fighter but toads tend to have to do at least five to ten years of military service before being allowed to do anything else," Howard said. "And let me tell you, not a fan of it. Wait, you're going to the tournament? I'm pretty sure you're not a toad. What makes you think they'll even let you?"

Randy looked to his scroll and then to his sword.

"I want to become a warrior like my grandpa. He said a toad by the name of Sarutobi would see the next step of my training." Randy took back on his path.

Howard looked at him before grabbing his sword. He was no idiot, if a couple of bullies could make a piñata out of him, then there was less of a chance for a creature like Randy. He looked way too breakable from where he stood. And that sword he carried, it didn't look like it would make so much as a scratch on the armor some of the toads usually carried. But there were better odds as a duo than as one. Plus, if things really got ugly, he could always bail.

"You know that some of these guys will eat you alive, right?" Howard asked.

"Maybe, but I'll make it hurt every step of the way." Randy smirked looking forward for a fight.

The Eastern Toad Tower Tournament was meant to bring in the best Amphibia had to offer in terms of warriors. Toad warriors from all the towers sought to make their names by entering the tournament and getting a place in that tower. The other towers were easily assigned their toads, but as the second-longest toad commander, Sarutobi wanted to be sure he got the best of the best. He sat down on the small simple stage as the last of the warriors prepared to enter the ring and fight for the chance to learn from him.

He was an old toad with red crimson skin with red marks around his eyes and a pink underbelly, with yellow eyes with a large scar running vertically down his right eye. He wore blue samurai armor and held a large black heavy staff with blue ends of it. He lit up his pipe, blowing smoke as his third lieutenant approached him with a bow.

"Sarutobi," Bufo said. "We're ready to start the tournament."

"Good, Bufo. How many participants do we have this year?" Sarutobi asked.

"Fifty, Master Sarutobi." Bufo looked at the crowd with disgust.

"Hm, quite the load this year. Best to give them a fair warning about how we run things." Sarutobi got up from his seat, before letting out a puff of smoke. "I am sure there will be at least one or two worth the effort." He swung his staff over his shoulder.

"Whoa, I've never seen these many warriors in one place." Randy watched the many warriors with excitement.

Ever since he started training with his grandpa, he had always been the prime example of what a warrior was. Now, he was surrounded. Granted almost all of them were toads and looked more animalistic than anything he'd pictured but still. Everyone here looked like they were ready to mean business and were armed to say the least.

"Yeah, these guys look awesome," Howard shrugged. "Can we just try not to stand out, please?"

"Aren't you here also to participate?" Randy asked his new friend.

"Yeah, but see those guys?" Howard pointed to two large toads covered in beastly pelts and weapons. "Those are the two that wanted to make me into a piñata. And I would rather avoid them if possible."

Randy narrowed his eyes as he looked over the two goons. He never liked bullies, toads or otherwise. It was one of the things that rubbed him the wrong way and would lead to him doing all sorts of crazy things to get rid of them. Those two reeked of lacking any honor or decency as warriors which led to him being all too happy to stand up to them. He made a mental note to be ready to beat them if he ever came across them. Not that he was vindictive or anything, but he did want to teach them not to try anything funny. A mystic warrior was nothing if not someone that didn't tolerate bullies.

"Warriors!" Sarutobi called out, getting everyone's attention. "You have come from far away to this tournament for a chance to be amongst the Eastern Tower's elite protectors. I am Sarutobi, lord of the tower that's just behind us. I welcome you to fight your best with honor. We will split you into teams of five. Each one of you will battle the other four and only the top ten victors will be granted admittance. That means, last one standing wins. Is that clear?!" He slammed his staff on the ground, making everyone stumble.

"Yes, Master Sarutobi!" Everyone shouted back as the old toad jumped back to his seat.

"Let the tournament begin!" Sarutobi struck the gong beside him, getting everyone to work quickly.

Randy and Howard became separated amidst the crowd of toads all turning to find the best and most obvious easy targets. The two friends soon found themselves surrounded by four different toads that all wanted their blood. No one had unsheathed their weapons yet but they all looked ready to destroy what would be the easiest of targets. It was no different than when pack animals like bee-hyenas surrounded their prey. It was a messy way of culling out the warriors from the thugs, but it was the most effective way Sarutobi saw with the many jackals that often flocked to his tower for the tournament. But just like every single playground team game, there were those that picked the weakest or less equipped to be their ticket for an easy win.

Within ten minutes, the fifty participants had turned into ten groups of five ready to step into the ring. The rules were simple enough, be the last one standing by either being taken out of the ring or being knocked out by the other competitors. As soon as the gong was heard, everyone inside the fighting ring launched themselves into a battle frenzy. Their weapons clashed and their fists and tongues collided against their enemies. Randy and Howard watched the matches with intrigue and slight amazement as some of the warriors sent others out of the ring with a single blow. Others made their way through with their large weapons easily cutting down their opponents' weapons due to the sheer size of them. A spectacle of sheer brutality and gladiatorial skill was being witnessed by the crowd and the lord of the tower. Though, his eyes were less focused on the battles and more into specific warriors.

Sarutobi's eyes landed on Randy's covered face, getting him intrigued that someone other than a toad would be taking part in the tournament. He assumed that it was a newt keeping their tail covered for some thrill to prove their superiority to the toads. It wasn't unusual for some military newts to try their luck in the tournament, but they were always taken care of or scared off. This would be interesting.

"Next group, forward!"

Now, it was Randy's turn to get up into the ring. Randy found himself face to face with the two thugs Howard had pointed to and two other gladiator toads that were all twice the man he was in terms of muscles alone. He would need to be ready for a fight.

"Yo, Cunningham. Good luck man." Howard whispered, getting Randy's attention.

"Don't worry, Howard, I'm ready for this." Randy turned to look at the other toad warriors.

"Hey, bro, isn't that the dope wimp we left hanging?" The bandit laughed.

"Yeah, thanks for the fun, wimp!" The other bandit laughed. "And it looks like he made a friend. Don't worry, we'll take good care of you." They unsheathed their blades ready for the fight.

Randy narrowed his eyes, preparing himself to fight them. The gong sounded off, making Randy's opponents charge at him without a second thought. They were bigger than him and looked mean as all hell, but he wasn't going to back down. They brought down a large maze on his head, only for Randy to dodge the attack, sidestepping to the side before using the toad's momentum to flip him over his shoulder.

Everyone watched as the larger toad was sent flying out before Randy rushed at the second toad in his path. A spear cut through the air, gracing the edge of his hat before Randy ducked and dodged the long weapon. Bobbing and weaving, Randy found his rhythm, rushing forward before unsheathing his sword.

Slice!

With one swift and flowing motion, Randy sliced the spear twice in a row before slamming the butt of his handle on the poor toad. Once he fell down, he charged at the two bandits only for them to team up. Following through with his attack, he slipped past the two bandits dodging their axes. He dropped down, dragging underneath their swings. Springing to his feet, he swung his sword, parrying the first bandit's ax. He pushed forward, slashing at their fur pelts only to feel armor underneath it.

"What?" Randy was punched by the second bandit as he made his realization.

"Didn't think we'd come here unprepared, did ya?" They laughed as Randy got back up.

A fire lit up inside Randy before charging at them once more. Taking in a deep breath, he focused on what to strike and how to best the two sneaky bandits. Speeding past them, dodging and parrying their blows, he looked for an opening before narrowing his eyes at them with fierce determination flowing through him like a torrent of flames. Holding his sword tightly, all his muscles clenched as he made his move. He appeared before the two bandits, slicing down on their battle axes before slicing at their armors with a fury of strikes.

"Norushi Style: Rapid Waves!" Randy called out, which caught Sarutobi's attention.

The two bandits covered their faces as Randy gave them one final slash, passing through them like water over stones. They looked down at their bodies and weapons before laughing. However, as they laughed, their weapons were cut into pieces before their eyes, shutting them up. Their armor crumbled down into small bits off of them adding to their shock. And lastly, they fell to the floor from the shock.

"We have a winner!" Sarutobi sounded the gong to which Randy gave everyone a cocky smile.

"Oh yeah, I'm the brucest guy around!" Randy sheathed his blade. "You fought well, but I'm just getting started." He jumped off, getting down from the fighting stage.

"Dude, that was awesome!" Howard cheered bumping fists with Randy. "I almost completely forgot that I'm up next. …Crap, I'm up next, man."

Howard was dragged onto the battlefield much to his displeasure. He looked up and saw every single one of the other toads were looking at him like a freshly baked Funcano cake with lots of chocolate. They were bigger and meaner than him. It wasn't his fault that he was more of a lover than a fighter. Sure, he loved a nice meal and lazing around like any toad else, okay, maybe a little more than most toads but that wasn't a reason to devolve into savagery. Besides, he was more of a thinker that liked to live comfortably for the rest of his days.

The gong rang, snapping Howard from his fantasies as a large hammer was brought down on him. He jumped out of the way only for another toad to cut his escape with an ax. It wasn't fun, but Howard spent the whole time dodging and jumping out of the way of the weapons from the other toads. Jumping back, he knocked onto another toad, who slammed his club on another one's foot. It had gotten to the point all the remaining warriors were laughing at how Howard was making a fool of himself while the other toads seemed to miss him at every turn. It made a classic cat and mouse chase look tame by comparison. Everyone continued laughing as Howard ran in a circle inside the battlefield stage while the other toads chased after him with weapons in hand.

Randy had seen enough. Quietly, he approached the stage to whisper some much needed advice to Howard.

"Howard," Randy called out.

"One second, Cunningham!" Howard sped up, leaving the pursuers behind.

Randy watched Howard get back to where he'd been as the pursuers had yet to finish the lap. Though, Howard did look worse than before.

"What's up?" Howard panted.

"Stop fighting like them. Use your strengths to get ahead." Randy whispered as the other toads caught up with Howard.

Howard looked up at the other four toads as they all prepared to attack. Just as his mind was about to show him how he'd lived his life, an idea popped in his head.

"Hey, hey, hey, wait! You are all taking me out cause I'm the weak link, right?" Howard got nods from the other toads. "So, I assume that once I'm out you'll take each other out to win, right? So, why go after me, when you will need all your energy to beat each other? I mean, look at you all. You're sweating."

The toads looked at each other, noting that it was true. They had been chasing Howard all over the stage. Now they would be exhausted when they battled each other and none of them would be ready. They started talking and agreed with Howards assessment.

"You're wasting so much energy getting to me together that you're getting in each other's way." Howard pointed out. "Why don't you take care of each other before you're too tired to actually do anything? I mean, I'm not going anywhere."

The other toads looked at each other, muttering about what Howard had said. Clearly they all wanted the easy victory over him first but to waste so much energy on him was counterproductive. The chase had landed them bruises and near misses with each other like a bad game of tongue tag. They hated to admit it but taking care of each other first was the smart thing to do before beating the weakling into the ground like worm mush. The four toads nodded in agreement before pouncing on each other.

Howard smiled as he laid down, relaxing as the show moved on before him. The four toads clashed and beat each other with the intensity and brutality that all toads were raised to believe in at all times. But there was one thing that they all lacked, brains to realize they were being played. All Howard had to do was wait for his chance and help them on their way out, just like how he kicked the first two toads rolling on the ground next to him. He stretched up before picking up one of the discarded clubs. He walked up to the two toads, hitting them on the back of their heads with it.

"Sometimes my own brilliance is scary," Howard said as he was declared the victor. "Scary for everyone but me, that is, baby." He got off the stage with a smug smirk on his face.

Randy and Howard shook hands at their respective victories while the rest of the tournament went on. However, their victories caught the attention of Sarutobi. He watched them with curiosity as they were unlike any of the other warriors that they had bested. It was a rare sight to see different strategies taking place amongst the toads as most used their large size and brute strength to get the victory.

"What a cowardly way to achieve victory," Bufo scoffed. "That one won't last the week. And that skinny one looks more like a newt than a proper toad."

"Do not underestimate cunning or skill gained from training, Bufo." Sarutobi blew out a puff of smoke. "They won without cheating and they showed that they have something all leaders should possess. But that is no reason to take it easy on them. I'll be sure to speak with them after they get set up at the barracks." Sarutobi stood up as the champions of the battles saluted him in a single file.

"As you wish, Master Sarutobi." Bufo bowed but not before giving the new underdog recruits a sneer.

"Warriors, you have gotten past the tournament, and won a spot in the Eastern Tower. However, don't think this is it." Sarutobi slammed his staff against the ground. "No, this is only the beginning. I will see you all turned into proper warriors even if it kills you. Go to your rooms and settle in. Tomorrow, you will be introduced to the ways of this tower. Dismissed." He walked away as the group made their way to the Eastern Tower.

"How cool is this, Howard?" Randy asked.

"If by cool you mean, we are shoobed. Then yes." Howard sighed. "I should've taken the beating and been on my way."

"Hey, relax. We'll be fine," Randy said. "Tell you what, you watch my back, I watch yours."

Howard thought about it for a moment.

"Okay, I see what you're saying. You got a deal." Randy and Howard fist bumped as they were ready for the next.

The Eastern Toad Tower stood tall amongst the mountains of the valley like a fortress in an ancient war torn land. It was constructed high to look upon the land they guarded with levels dictated with upwardly pointing rooftops. It looked like a pagoda had been built with rock, stone, white plaster, red tiles and smelled like it had armed medieval soldiers stationed around it to fight tooth and nail. The tower was surrounded by high walls with two look out points at either side of the entrance, with enough holes for archers to fire at any and all who dared attack the tower. Most of the towers carried themselves with a great sense of fearlessness and intimidation, but this one carried itself with honor and pride when it came to their post.

The tower was divided into levels where each part was assigned a specific task. The top was reserved for the upper ranking members, the middle levels had the low ranking soldiers, and the lower floors were meant for weapon crafting and food storage and the main hall where all the soldiers would have their meals. But amongst these levels was a small meeting room that was often reserved for war counseling and troop management. Only now it was being used as the room where Randy and Howard were waiting for Sarutobi to arrive.

"So, what do you think this is about?" Randy asked, sitting down on his legs.

"How should I know? For all I know it could be because you're a weird creature kicking ass left and right," Howard snorted. "But, for whatever the reason, we stick to the same story. We didn't cheat and we didn't do anything funny. We met before the tournament and we barely know each other. Got it?"

"Isn't that the truth?" Randy raised his eyebrow.

"Just let me do the talking." Howard whispered as Sarutobi entered the room with Bufo by his side. "Heya, boss man, we were just chilling. And before you ask, no we didn't do anything wrong and no we didn't break any rules, as far as we know. No need to get up. We were just about to leave and head for lunch." Howard was about to get up when Bufo snarled at him.

"You will sit until Lord Sarutobi tells you to leave, worm." Bufo growled, making Howard sit down.

Sarutobi took this chance to look the two youngsters over. It was true, they weren't much at first glance but there was something about the two of them that made him curious. Howard seemed like an ordinary young toad that had more brains than brawn. His tactical mind and skill for negotiation served him well against his opponents, it was something most toads didn't always get to use outside of politics in some towns of Frog Valley. The strange creature named Randy was equally as curious, but he was more of what Sarutobi sought in a warrior. Disciplined, skilled, strong and resourceful in many aspects, yet those were not obtained in the wild. There were only a few beings that he'd met that could rise to such levels, and none of them resembled a creature like Randy.

"You did well in your fights, the two of you." Sarutobi knelt before them. "You both proved your skills like all the others. But there are still some things that I wish to clarify between the two of you and myself. The tournament allows everyone to enter into the tower's army, but that often leads to undesirables seeking to obtain the prestige that comes from wearing the badge of my tower. So, I will ask this once, why are you here?"

Sarutobi's eyes of fire sent shivers down the spines of the two youngsters. Anything less than the truth would bring them a world of hurt.

"I came here because it seemed like the easiest place to go and because my father would've disinherited me if I didn't." Howard revealed. "If it were up to me, I'd just lay in my room and have no issue with just watching the world go by."

"A freeloader, huh? Should've expected that from such cowardly tactics." Bufo scoffed.

"Hey, I may not like the idea of military training, but I've survived this far." Howard smirked in pride.

"True, you have a sharper mind than you let on, Howard. But you are lazy and seek the easy way out all too often." Sarutobi took a whiff of his pipe. "We'll have to instill discipline in you. And the rewards of hard work. What about you, Randy? Why are you here?"

"I want to become a mystic warrior." Randy's words echoed in the room, but only Sarutobi understood the meaning behind them. "I want to be just like my grandfather. He told me that you would be a master worthy of helping me become a true warrior. I want to prove myself worthy of his teachings and all that they entail."

"Ha, mystic warriors are a myth!" Bufo laughed. "I think that old fart just wanted to-"

"Who is your grandfather, Randy?" Sarutobi cut Bufo off.

Randy pulled out the scroll his grandfather gave him. Placing it on the ground, he presented it with the crest of the Norushi clan visible to the old toad.

"His name is Nobu Norushi of Wartwood." Randy bowed. "He gave me the scroll to find you."

Sarutobi's eyes widened at the sight of the young man. Picking up the scroll from the floor, he examined it, opening it up to be certain. The writing was indeed his old friend and rival's writing. The symbol was legit as well. There was no doubt that the strange creature before him was telling the truth. No one would have been able to steal anything from Nobu and make it all the way here unscathed. This also answered the question of how the young man mastered and trained in such a powerful combat style.

"So, Nobu sent you here to see if I could train you to become a mystic warrior?" Sarutobi asked. "I have never seen a creature like you, Randy. Or if you could become a mystic warrior of legend. You have a cocky steak to you, but I see the potential in you and even if my knowledge on what a mystic warrior can be is limited, I will make sure to turn you into a warrior." He blew out the smoke from his pipe.

Randy and Howard looked at each other, understanding what was going to happen to them.

"You two will be the underdogs in this tower and will have to prove yourselves every day." Sarutobi explained. "Settle down today. Tomorrow, you two will face the training of the tower." Sarutobi swung his staff over his shoulder, looking at the two young warriors with determination.

Randy smiled with determination while Howard groaned at the idea of training. Anything that had to do with training was something he despised. Despite Randy's optimism, he could almost certainly say that it probably wasn't so bad. The place was peaceful and there weren't that many problems happening. Surely it couldn't be that bad, could it?

"MOVE FASTER, YOU LAZY BUMS!" Sarutobi slammed his staff down on the ground, creating a shockwave.

Randy and Howard were running with the rest of the soldiers as they made their way up a mountain path, keeping up with Sarutobi's strict orders and commands. The heat of the sun was raining down on them as they kept their knees high, running faster and faster. Everyone was panting from all the exercise they were having but none slowed down.

"IF YOU THINK THIS WILL ALL BE SUN AND TEA, THEN YOU ARE SORELY MISTAKEN!" Sarutobi caught up with the soldiers with ease. "FIX YOUR BREATHING MAGGOTS! ONE BLOW TO YOUR STOMACH IN COMBAT AND YOU'RE DONE!" Sarutobi slammed his staff on the stomach of a soldier, making him fall down.

Randy continued running, using his training to help him keep up with everyone else. He felt all his muscles burning, feeling like he was back at Wartwood with his grandpa.

"You doing alright, Howard?" Randy didn't hear a reply. "Howard?" Randy looked back to see Howard laying face down on the ground exhausted.

"IF EVEN ONE OF YOU DOESN'T MAKE IT TO THE TOP, YOU'LL ALL HAVE TO GO DOWN AND UP AGAIN BEFORE YOU EVEN GET BREAKFAST!" Sarutobi screamed, getting everyone to groan.

Randy ran down to pick Howard up, but the toad was a little too heavy for him to carry easily. Digging his heels on the ground, he dragged his new friend back to the top. They were the last ones to make it, but they made it to the top nonetheless.

Sarutobi was not kidding. The Eastern Toad Tower was a tranquil spot but there was a strict and constantly grueling training regiment that brought out the most brutal of strengths out of a soldier. Even if some weren't up to scale.

After breakfast, the next part of the day went out to different assignments directed by the higher ups of the tower.

"We've had reports of a newt bandit in the area," Bufo handed Randy and Howard a wanted poster. "He's been taking the money from several transports. Find him, and bring him to justice."

"And how do we do that?" Howard asked.

"Using this tax money as our bait." Bufo gestured. "But this Tritonio jerk is a slippery bastard. Keep your eyes open. And whatever you do, don't fall for the obvious-"

"Look, something on the road." Randy pointed out.

The trio looked at the road ahead of them, it looked like a downed child.

"I'll go take a look," Randy said.

"And leave me here with tubby? You both check it out." Bufo ordered.

Randy and Howard made their way to the unconscious child.

"Hey, you okay?" Randy asked.

"Anything broken?" Howard asked. "Or whatever?"

"Oh please sirs, just give me a little bit of help here," the little kid asked. "I, a hopeless orphan, have fallen and can't get up. Please, I'm begging you, I don't wanna be eaten by some rogue yokai or beast." He went overboard with the plea for help.

"Yeah, we hear you, please tell us what's wrong," Randy said.

"Don't buy it, Cunningham. This little rat is faking." Howard poked the little kid's face. "Beat it brat."

"Howard, he doesn't look like he's faking." Randy countered. "Let's take him to the cart and see what's wrong."

"Don't do it, Cunningham. You do that and we can say goodbye to whatever valuables we're carrying. I bet he's a pickpocket or something." Howard turned to Bufo. "Hey, bossman! This little twerp is a pickpocket jerk!"

"I am Lieutenant Bufo, you maggot!" Bufo rushed to gather up with Randy and Howard, unaware that a green newt with a black mane of hair, a mustache and a goatee snuck into the carriage.

"Howard, you can't assume that he is bad. Maybe he is just hungry or thirsty." Randy argued, handing a water gorg to the boy.

"Then why not ask for that stuff first then?" Howard asked.

"What are you bozos doing?" Bufo asked as the orphan drank the water. "Does he have anything to say about the mission, or what?"

"We don't know, he passed out on the road and hasn't told us anything." Randy replied as the boy finished drinking.

"I feel the cold grip of death surrounding me." The young newt moaned.

"Well, tell him to croak somewhere else, we have a carriage to secure," Bufo said.

Just then the newt road past them with the carriage full of money, laughing at them.

"...Which we left unguarded…" Howard said. "Got anything to say now?"

The young orphan tried to run off, only for Randy's scarf to catch him. With one swift move, the red silk wrapped around the little newt boy before pulling him back.

"You better be ready to tell us that you really are dying or that you are an orphan." Randy picked up the young newt.

"Um, one of them is true." The little newt sheepishly turned away.

"That guy told you that if you helped him you'd go fifty/fifty, didn't he?" Howard asked, making the orphan nod. "My bet is that he does this to make his life much easier and have someone else do the time."

Randy looked at Howard and then at the laughing newt as he drove off. A rage filled his belly before tossing the boy to Bufo. He was not going to let that creep get away. He rushed after the cart using his scarf to swing with the runaway cart. He'd met a lot of lowlives but this Tritonio guy was the worst and he would make him face justice.

"Come back here and face justice!" Randy swung.

The days went on and the routine was starting to become easier to follow. Randy and Howard spent their time following the rules and helping out wherever they were sent. Sometimes they were sent to the nearby villages to help with the issues they were having while other times they just went on patrol to make sure there weren't any problems taking place around the tower. It was dull, but it often showed that the villages had gripes that needed to be addressed. It was usually the threat of bandits and rogue yokai that made them go and fix things. But there were times in which they were called to help keep the peace among the villages.

Randy and Howard arrived at the village with Sarutobi and other soldiers. However, what they saw was nothing that they liked or found usual about their tasks.

"Get a move on, you weak frogs!" One of the soldiers laughed.

Although, it was more the issues that came with the cast system that were their biggest hurdle.

Three toad soldiers from the tower were tossing large rocks at small frogs while they balanced an apple on his head.

"Come on, ten points to whoever hits the old frog." One of the soldiers laughed.

"What is the meaning of this?" Sarutobi made his presence known to the soldiers.

"L-Lord Sarutobi, what a surprise. We were just taking a break here." The soldiers said.

"Really? Then I suppose you've made sure to help the infrastructure of the town? Have you gathered the taxes for the tower? Have you made sure that the stories of the wild beast prowling are well founded? Or have you been too busy?" Sarutobi glared at the soldiers.

"Um, sir, we were just having a little fun." The soldiers cowered.

"Y-Yeah, there's no such thing as a wild beast around."

Just then a large beast, half-lion and half-scorpion jumped through one of the buildings. The beast had the legs of a lion, the tail of a scorpion and all the predatory savagery to go with it.

"It's the scorpio leo, run!"

Panic spread as Randy and Howard stood by Sarutobi, who spun his staff. The large beast charged at them only for Sarutobi to slam his staff against the beast's head. The beast's four eyes widened at the strength of the old toad bringing it down. It's tail sprung to life out of instinct, but the lord of the tower had already planned for it.

"Cut the tail!" Sarutobi comanded.

Howard gave Randy a boost, sending him high in the air with his sword ready. Randy struck down the large venomous tail, slicing it into three pieces before landing.

The beast laid dead at Sarutobi's feet. But the old toad's glare returned to the soldiers.

"These frogs are not your slaves nor your entertainment. They are civilians under my charge, and that means we protect them no matter what." Sarutobi towered over the soldiers. "It is a duty we will uphold. Always."

Randy and Howard looked at each other in similar awe. The cast system was pretty straight forward when it came to who was serving who. Toads were easily in the middle of things, but mostly just kept as muscle for the king of Amphibia to use to keep the peace. It didn't mean they didn't enjoy beating on the weaker frogs who were at the bottom. Seeing Sarutobi helping the frogs and chastising the soldiers was a breath of fresh air for the two young warriors. It was inspiring. And it was something they would have to live up to.

Randy glared at the stupid game before him. He wanted to get some action with training or a mission, instead he was stuck playing this game. The pieces seemed to mock him with each move he made. He tried to come up with a strategy to make the game go faster, or at least more his way. But he was bested at every turn.

"Come on, Cunningham. I'll die of old age before you make a move." Howard rested his head on his hand. "If this were a real fight then you'd be long dead."

"Well, excuse me, Howard. But I'm more of a man of action and I don't see how this game is all that important." Randy moved one of his pieces. "I get it has to do with strategy and all that, but it is just so boring."

"Flipwart is one of those games that involves lots of thinking and lazing around." Howard moved his piece. "It has shown that those that master this game are some of the best strategists of Amphibia. Heck, King Andrias is supposed to be the best player over the last thousand years. I'll win in the next three moves."

Randy narrowed his eyes at his friend's comment. He understood the need for strategy but the example he used wasn't the best to help him see the point of the game.

"You mean the same king that created the caste system for the last thousand years? Strategy is one thing, but not doing anything to help those below you is another." Randy spotted an opening in Howard's strategy. "That's why I'll keep getting stronger and protect the rest of Amphibia. I will be the mystic warrior the people need. Check." Randy moved his piece.

Howard looked at his move, rather impressed.

"Not bad, Cunningham. Guess, I'll have to do this." Howard took down Randy's piece and flipped his wart. "Checkmate."

Randy groaned in frustration. He hated the game but he hated losing even more. If there was something that ticked him off more than Tritonio pulling a fast one on them, it was losing to Howard at a simple game. Dropping his head, he took in a deep breath before sighing.

"Set up the board, I'm not giving up that easily." Randy set up his pieces.

"This time let's see if you can last twice as long." Howard chuckled. "Loser buys dinner."

Everyone was running all over the tower, time was of the essence and they needed to make every second count. The soldiers were sharpening their blades, their spears and arrows, making sure that they were ready for a fight. But it wasn't an invasion they were preparing for, it was something much worse.

"Make sure the food storage is locked and good, all entrances to the tower must be secured!" Sarutobi ordered as a cold wind came down from the north. "Hibernation Day is upon us and we need to be ready! Everyone better be inside and all the defenses must be up before sundown!"

Randy and Howard finished closing the last of the entrances before placing wires all over the open spaces with bells attached to them. It wasn't much, but they knew that it was better to know where the wild animals were coming from.

"You ready, Howard?" Randy asked.

"Please, these things are a snore fest. I bet you we'll all sleep like babies." Howard shrugged.

"I don't. I'm warm blooded." Randy revealed. "I haven't had to hibernate a single time since I've lived in Amphibia."

"Damn, you must be tired as well. But I feel a little better than you'll be watching our backs." Howard picked a club as they all headed inside the tower. "But if you could let Bufo get eaten, I wouldn't complain." He added with a whisper.

Randy and Howard fist bumped as they sat down on their positions.

It happened in an instant, everyone turned into large toad popsicles. All except Randy. He alone was awake, covered in furs and clothes he had. With his basket hat on and his scarf fluttering with the cold wind, he slowly walked around the tower, with nothing but the lit torches to accompany him. His eyes kept watch on whatever he could see with his torch in hand. Some would say that to be the only one around while everyone was hibernating would be a self-reflecting experience, but Randy always hated how quiet everything got. He was alone and without anyone. It was something he couldn't stand.

The sound of the bells pulled him from his own thoughts. Randy ran towards the source of the noise. His eyes quickly landed on a large creature. It looked like a giant boar with large curved ivory tusks, black spiky fur, six beetle-like legs and two large glowing green eyes. The beast had broken the storage room door, smelling the food inside. It devoured three sacks of rations in its large mouth with ease before stopping. It's snout smelled something else. Turning around, it roared at Randy as soon as it spotted him.

"So, you're the big pig that's been eating everything every Hibernation Day, huh?" Randy pulled out his sword. "Sorry, Pumba, but the lunch is canceled."

Pumba charged at Randy with a wild roar. Randy ran to meet the beast as it swung its tusks at him. Rolling out of the way in time, he wrapped his scarf around Pumba's tusk, pulling himself over its head and burly body. He brought down his sword at the back of Pumba's head, but the massive warthog-beetle swung his head to the side, making Randy miss his mark. Randy hung onto his scarf for dear life as Pumba started running and dragging him along the way. The beast's speed and thrashing forced Randy to hang on tightly. Running on the side of the walls, he tried to jump ahead and strike at Pumba's eyes. The beast looked him in the eye, blocking his sword with one of its tusks.

Randy pulled himself back down to try again, but Pumba took off running once more. The speed of the beast forced Randy to run side by side with it. But that was easier said than done. The beast was so fast that it dragged Randy behind it. Randy climbed on, pulling on his scarf as the feeling of the snow against his skin started to burn. He grabbed onto Pumba's fur, climbing up on the beast's hide. He thrusted his sword into the beast's side, making Pumba roar in pain. It shook, trying to get Randy off of it. But Randy used this to jump all the way back up. Landing on the beast's face, Randy slashed out the beast's eye. Blood blasted at Randy's face, blinding him. He jumped back only for Pumba's tusk to knock him out of the way.

The tusk hit him with the blunt end, but the sheer strength sent Randy a good way away. Randy was sent flying back, landing on the snow. Looking up at the beast, he smirked, feeling his body getting warmer and warmer. The snow was slippery, but his blood boiled enough to compensate.

"You really are a tough one, Pumba." Randy held his sword forward. "But I am far from an easy meal!" Randy ran to meet up with the large beast.

Pumba swung its tusk at Randy, trying to impale him in its path. But Randy slid down beneath the beast's natural weapon. The tip of the tusk cut into his shoulder, drawing blood. It hurt a lot, but Randy pushed through it. Pushing himself up, he swung his sword at Pumba's stomach with ferocity, cutting it open where the armor was weakest. The roars of pain from Pumba echoed in the back of Randy's head as he spun in a circle, cutting the back of Pumba's legs.

"Norushi Style, Pond Whirlpool!" Randy called out as Pumba's backside fell down bleeding.

Pumba pulled itself up, wanting to continue fighting against Randy.

"You want to keep fighting huh, Pumba?" Randy tasted the metal on his lips, but all it did was fire him up. "Yeah, I'm stubborn too. Bring it!" Randy challenged.

Pumba charged, roaring like a crazed runaway truck with fire in its eyes. The remaining four legs worked overtime as it charged at Randy with death in its eyes. The pure animalistic rath coming from Pumba would've made any other toad soldier tremble and run. But like any warrior, Randy didn't buckle against the fear. Breathing like his grandfather had taught him, he felt his heart beating faster, his muscles tensing with energy, his breathing felt like fire coursing through him. His legs moved faster than he'd ever felt before, meeting up with Pumba's face before it could even blink. Gripping his sword tightly, he swung it, slicing one of the beast's tusks.

Like droplets hitting the surface of a river, Randy sprinted to the top of the beast's head. Holding his sword high, he turned his body in a spiraling motion, slicing the beast's neck and spine.

"Norushi Style: Raindrop Step!" Randy shouted as the large beast's blood stained the ground and snow.

The beast slumped down, crashing against the wall, breaking it.

Randy walked up to the creature, realizing that he'd brought it down.

"Sorry, but I promise nothing will go to waste." Randy rubbed Pumba's head comforting it.

The next morning came, and everyone woke up to the sight of the downed warthog-beetle down on the entrance with Randy sitting on top of it. The toads cheered at the young warrior's victory, lifting him up over their arms as he smiled.

His victory had granted him the admiration of his peers, and now he would stand proud at his accomplishment. Randy felt bad for killing the warthog-beetle, but he knew that it would've attacked the frozen toads if he didn't. He made a choice and would live with it.

Randy felt at the top of the world. He was getting stronger and was beating any challenge that came his way. Ever since he defeated the warthog-beetle and protected everyone, he was getting much more respect and admiration than before. It was like he was finally being recognized as another warrior amongst them. The only downside was that Sarutobi was still having them on the intense level of the training. Having him and Howard running with weights and staying up late was just one of the many ways that he made sure to remember they were still the underdogs.

"Man, talk about a humbling couple of days." Howard moaned. "Would it kill Sarutobi to cut us some slack?"

"I don't know what you're complaining about, Howard. I did the heavy lifting." Randy smoked as they watched two toads fighting in a ring.

"Not untrue. But in my defense, if not for my detection system, you wouldn't have even known the big bastard was there." Howard popped his back. "So, by that account, I'm also responsible for your current fame. Say, have you heard that we're getting a visit?"

Just as Howard said that, one of the fighting toads was tossed over their heads.

"Come on, you weaklings! Isn't there anyone that can best Bufo?!" Bufo demanded, beating his chest like a gorilla. "I bet not even the master's pet dogs could beat me!" He turned to look at Randy and Howard with a smirk on his face and 'oohs' from the others.

"Oh, I don't know, Bufo. Last time you tried to catch a small thief, he ran circles around you," Randy said. "You should cut back on those fly-cakes."

Howard snickered as Bufo growled in annoyance.

He was about to say something, but a horn sounded off, alerting everyone. They all turned to see the gates opening up. And in came a fancy carriage bearing the Newtopia Military seal being carried by a large purple snapping turtle. Accompanying the carriage was a silver armored pink newt lady with white hair, riding on top of a large pristine white rhino beetle. She jumped down, letting her cape flutter in the wind while the two armored guards stepped down from the carriage.

"Marvelous taste this tower has," The newt commented.

"Who are you and what do you seek?" Bufo asked.

"I am General Yunan!" She posed. "Scourge of the Sand Wars, defeater of Ragnar the Wretched and the youngest newt-!"

"Ehem!"

"Oh sorry." Yunan rushed to the carriage, opening the door for a shorter slightly blue skinned newt with long curly black hair to step out.

She wore a mostly white and pink dress with long white gloves and seashells in a necklace and a small diadem. And carried herself with dignity.

"Thank you, general." She stepped up, unrolling a scroll. "Greetings, Eastern Toad Tower soldiers. My name is Lady Olivia and you've met General Yunan, and yes she's very important too." She added cutting Yunan's presentation once more. "We come as representatives of the crown to ensure your soldiers are doing their job."

"And we greet you with open arms, Lady Olivia." Sarutobi stepped up. "I am Sarutobi, lord of the tower. At your services." He added a bow as did everyone else.

"Tales of your skills against the oni raiders precede you, Lord Sarutobi." Olivia bowed. "This is all just a routine check up, see the armory, the walls, that sort of stuff. Maybe see a demonstration of your soldiers."

"You want a demonstration, let me at them!" Yunan shot out two blades from her gauntlets, showing she meant business. "One fight and we'll be on our way with the boring stuff."

Randy smoked, seeing this as the best way to put Bufo in his place. He had bested a large beast on his own, he could defeat an attention seeking glory hound newt. The high of his victory had not dwindled but instead made him feel much stronger and capable than before. Pride oozed from him like water from a sponge. Stepping ahead with his sword in hand, he made his presence known to the arrivals.

"I'll take you on, lady!" Randy walked forward.

Sarutobi looked back at Randy with shock as everyone cheered for him. He could tell that this was an act filled with pride and ignorance. One work and he could stop it. The child showed and lived up to the promise of all his potential, but the blindfolds of youth still held on tightly. The cheers made him drunk to anything else. Randy had to see this through.

"Oh, a strange creature dares approach me?" Yunan walked up to Randy, sizing him up. "You're kinda cute. But your eyes mean business. I accept your challenge, um."

"Randy."

"Randy."

Soon enough, Randy and General Yunan stood face to face on the fighting ring. The soldiers all cheered as they surrounded the ring. The two warriors were stretching and preparing for the fight with everything they had ahead of them.

"So, not that I don't have confidence in you, but you do know what you're doing, right?" Howard asked.

"I go in, kick her butt, end of story." Randy shrugged.

"Yeah, not bad, but this is Newtopia Military, they got some crazy things up their sleeves." Howard countered. "Plus, she looks a little crazy. Not too late to back out."

"Relax, Howard. I got this." Randy walked up to meet Yunan. "Don't you wanna grab a sword or something? I'll feel pretty bad if you lose so easily."

"Nah, I got mine, right here." Yunan's blades popped out of her gauntlets before going back in.

Sarutobi lifted his arm, making sure they were ready.

"Begin!" He called out.

Randy swung his sword at Yunan, only to get blocked by her gauntlets easily. He jumped back to charge once more, slicing the air just as Yunan dodged the attack. His moves were fast, but Yunan seemed to move faster. He cut from the right, she blocked. He came from above, she ducked. Her eyes were on his every move against her. He thrusted his blade, making her sidestep to his side. She thrusted her blades at him, forcing him to move his head back. Twisting his body, he swung her way only for her to bend backwards, cutting a few strands of her hair.

"Nice!" Yunan laughed. "You got spunk, kid!" Yunan's tail struck Randy in the stomach like a whip.

The air left Randy's lungs as his feet dragged on the ground. Looking up, he saw Yunan above him, swinging down her blades at his head. Lifting up his sword, he parried the blades. But every time he blocked her blades she would pull back and come at him from the other side. It was like fighting a swarm of batsquitos. But Randy soldiered on.

"Come on Cunningham, kick her ass!" Howard called out.

Randy's eyes moved to catch up with Yunan's movement. But every move she made was an afterimage to him. His offensive quickly became his defense. He jumped, dodging a tail swing. He blocked a strike with his sword. He parried another strike. He turned and stepped back trying to keep up with the movements of the general. But she moved faster and faster with each strike.

"Good form." She punched him in the face. "Keep the breathing stable." A tail whip to the back. "Not bad." Randy caught her punch.

Yunan grabbed Randy's arm, flipping him over her shoulder. He landed on his back feeling his body aching from all the blows. Yunan slammed an ax kick on him, only for Randy to roll out of the way. He panted, raising his sword as he tasted the metal on his mouth. His eyes narrowed as he regained his breathing. Springing forward, he crossed blades with Yunan, attempting to push her back. He managed to get her to the edge.

"Not so bad now, huh?" Randy asked.

"I worked up a sweat. But game over, boy." Yunan jumped, spinning in the air before smacking Randy across the face with her tail but he stood strong. "Still standing? Okay, a couple more will do!" Yunan struck Randy in the stomach with her tail, sending him flying back.

Randy landed on the ground completely knocked out. He panted and groaned in pain, but his body wouldn't move. Sweat and bruises covered his body. He could hear everyone booing him and laughing at how he'd gotten his ass handed to him by a newt. His hand gripped his sword tightly, but suddenly Yunan appeared above him.

"Woo! Now that was fun!" Yunan cheered. "Not bad, cutie! Maybe next time we could spar alone. But don't feel bad, most of my training partners don't last half as long. See ya." Yunan helped Randy back to his feet.

"Yeah… see ya…" Randy said before leaving.

Sarutobi watched Randy walk away as the crowd dispersed.

Randy sat down before a spring, looking at his sword. Or more specifically at his reflection in his blade. Every bruise and cut he had stung his body and pride more than the hits did. He's been bested and bested good. It was his first battle with someone that wasn't his grandpa and he'd been treated like a rookie. He'd only felt like that once, back when he'd first arrived at Amphibia. He grabbed his necklace with the piece that he'd brought and was tempted to throw it away.

"Man, talk about an epic schooling." Howard approached with a couple of rice balls. "Brought you some grub. Don't worry, I only ate half of them. You feeling any better?"

"Not after that little intro." Randy sighed. "I don't understand how this happened? I should've won. I took down the warthog-beetle and she kicked my ass."

"Well, she is older and more experienced," Howard suggested. "Maybe that did the trick?" He sat down next to Randy, offering him the rice balls.

"What do I do now? I feel like I'm still that scared little kid when my grandpa found me." Randy looked at his sword.

"Even the strongest warrior needs moments of stillness," Sarutobi spoke, making his presence known. "Step back, step inward, breathe deeply, and let the silence refuel your spirit. True power comes from a quiet heart and a focused mind. Recharge, then rise stronger."

"Lord Sarutobi, sorry. I embarrassed you with that fight." Randy bowed his head. "I bet I could beat her if-" Sarutobi held up his hand.

"I expected you to lose, Randy," Sarutobi said.

"Huh?"

"Do you know what is the best teacher for a warrior? Defeat," Sarutobi said. "Your loss has shown you the limits of your strength. But once you find them, you can move past them. This defeat has shown you how far the road to be a warrior is. Do not fear defeat, learn from it. Become stronger because of it. Apply your lessons every single day and move forward. Once you master the way to lose, you will be free to fight like your last day is ahead."

Sarutobi's words reminded Randy of something. A lesson his grandfather had taught him, but he never understood.

Randy fell back with his sword knocked out.

"Like many a warrior, you have long sought the path to win. Like everyone else, you've sought that power. But never to accept the way to lose." Nobu helped Randy to his feet.

"But what's so great about losing, grandpa? If I win, that's because I'm better than my opponent. Why should I learn how to lose?" Randy asked.

"Because he who always wins, never learns from his mistakes. To accept defeat, to learn to die is to be liberated from it and the fear that binds you." Nobu poked at Randy's chest.

"What could I fear from dying?"

"All beings fear the end, because they believe they'll live forever. But accepting that one day will be your last is to be free of all illusions and you will live ready to face every day with all your might, free of the ambitions of the mind." Nobu handed Randy his sword.

"Besides, struggle is part of the process, and it is a long process," Sarutobi said. "There was a time when even I went to bed covered in bruises. But I learned to get up. Nothing worth having is easy." Sarutobi looked at the two.

Randy and Howard bowed to their master.

"Thank you, Lord Sarutobi." Randy felt ready for more.

"It is only your first year in the tower, things are bound to change soon enough, boys." Sarutobi turned around. "Come on, let's go."

They walked back to the tower with Randy carrying a great fire inside his soul.