The Heroic Quest of the Valient Prince Ivandoe Chapter 7:
Journey to the Dragon Palace
Episode 3: The Prince and the Troublesome Tanuki
(Ivandoe, Bert, and Hanzo are at a market in Yukumo. As Ivandoe and Bert are wandering
through the village they see a chubby charismatic tanuki waving at them. They both look at
each other then walk toward the merchant's cart.)
Hachimon: Good evening, my friend. I am but a humble merchant. The names Hachimon.
Hachimon Yabushige. But my friends call me Hachi.
Ivandoe: Well Mr. Raccoon we came to this market—.
Hachimon: Not a raccoon.
Ivandoe: Hmm…. really?
Bert: Are you sure?
Hachimon: I'm a raccoon-dog.
Ivandoe: Never heard of it.
Hachimon: Well, that's what I am.
Ivandoe: Okay, Hachi. I am Prince Ivandoe and this is my squire Bert.
Hachimon: Oooh! A Prince! You know, I have many a tale of how of how my spirit-.
Ivandoe: I'm sorry, but we've got everything we need.
Hachimon: Okay, okay. If you insist. But you should know these clothes are reserved for
the gods.
Ivandoe: Really? Clears throat Proceed.
Hachimon: As I was saying, my clothing is beyond compare! The gods were captivated by
them. They couldn't resist! After the mere sight of them they were singing my praises! They
endlessly searched for me, for repeat business of course. Once they found me, the scene
erupted in celebration! And we all had such a blast! I remember the ruler of the Heavens
himself, dragon Lord Ryūjin even told me—!
Ivandoe: Enough! Merchant, you have a deal! I'll take an entire carts worth of clothing.
(Ivandoe hands Hachimon a small bag of gold)
Hachimon: Excellent. Enjoy! Grabs the bag
Ivandoe: Ooh. This kimono fits so well! It's snug and lavish at the same time. What do you
think Bertie?
Bert: Couldn't agree more sire.
(But the clothes turn into a giant pile of leaves)
Bert: LEAVES!
Ivandoe: Gasps My new clothes….they're FAKE! *Covers himself*
Bert: Oh, sire!
(Some nearby villagers begin laughing)
Villagers: Hahahahahahaha!
Ivandoe: That thief! Oh, this is so embarrassing!
Hachimon: Hachimon runs away with a massive grin across his face HAHAHAHAHAHA!
Ivandoe: Embarrassed Ohh!
Hanzo: Hanzo walks over Your clothes Ivandoe-sama. Hands Ivandoe a new kimono
Ivandoe: Give me that! Where were you, Hanzo!? You were no help at all!
Hanzo: I was gathering ingredients for tonight's dinner your highness. I thought I told you
not to trust a tanuki.
Ivandoe: That merchant said he was a raccoon-dog!
Hanzo: Which is a tanuki.
Ivandoe: We've got to find that scoundrel! He won't get away with robbing a prince! Come
on, Bert, Hanzo, let's go!
Hanzo: Sighs Ivandoe-sama, I must warn you—Hachimon is no ordinary thief. He's a Bake-
danuki, a shape-shifting yōkai. Tanuki like him are notorious for their tricks and illusions.
The forest up the path is said to not only be mysterious…but dangerous.
Bert: A shape-shifting yōkai? That sounds... dangerous, sire. Maybe we should just let this
one go.
Ivandoe: Dangerous or not, he has my gold, and I won't rest until I get it back! I refuse to let
some racoon make a fool out of me!
Hanzo: Sighs As you wish, Ivandoe-sama.
(The trio cautiously follow the path and enter Kamura forest. The trees looming tall and
casting long shadows as they delve deeper into the unknown.)
Bert: Gulps
Hanzo: Remember Ivandoe-sama, a Bake-danuki can create powerful illusions, turning
simple leaves into gold or making themselves vanish without a trace. Venturing into
Kamura Forest after him is dangerous. Trust nothing that your eyes see and only half of
what your ears hear. This yōkai might try to play tricks on us.
Ivandoe: Muttering to himself I'll show that Hachimon. No yōkai will make a fool of me!
(As they venture further into the woods, strange sounds echo around them, and the
shadows seem to shift and dance in the corners of their vision.)
Bert: Shivering I don't like this, sire. Maybe we should—.
(Suddenly, they hear a rustling in the bushes ahead. The trio stops in their tracks, staring
intently as the sound grows closer...)
Ivandoe: Whispering It's him! It has to be! Get ready, Hanzo!
Hanzo: Drawing his katana Stay alert. It could be another one of his tricks.
(The rustling grows louder, and out from the bushes... steps Hachimon, holding a bag of
gold coins)
Hachimon: Grinning Looking for me, your highness?
Ivandoe: Furious You bet I am! Give me back my gold, you thieving raccoon!
Hachimon: Chuckling Tanuki, if you please. And if you want your gold back... well, you'll
have to catch me first!
(With that, he turns into a Red Crowned Crane and flies away)
Ivandoe: Frustrated Gah! After him, Hanzo! We can't let him escape again!
Hanzo: Sighs When will you learn.
(Ivandoe and Bert chase after the crane. But Hanzo is suspicious of the forest and decides
to meditate on a nearby log. As Ivandoe and Bert contuine to chase, the forest around them
seems to close in. The trees grow thicker, their branches casting eerie shadows in the
fading light, and the sounds of the forest grows more unsettling.)
Ivandoe: Panting Come on, Bert! We can't let that scoundrel get away!
Bert: Out of breath S-Sire, are you sure we're going the right way? I mean, the forest... it's
starting to look all the same.
Ivandoe: Determined Of course we are! He can't be far now!
(But as they push deeper into Kamura Forest, the forest grows darker. Soon, they lose sight
of the crane, and even the rustling of leaves fades into silence.)
Bert: Looking around nervously Sire, I... I think we're lost.
Ivandoe: Pausing, glancing around Nonsense, Bert. We just need to... um... retrace our
steps! Which... should be simple... right?
Bert: Whimpering I don't like this place. It's too... quiet.
Ivandoe: Groaning Fine. Maybe we should set up camp for the night. We'll find that
trickster in the morning. There's no way he can hide from Prince Ivandoe forever.
(Bert begins to set up camp, and as the night falls, the forest seems to come alive with
strange sounds—distant laughter, the snap of branches, and the occasional flicker of
something moving in the shadows.)
Bert: Shivering Sire, maybe... maybe Hanzo was right. We shouldn't have come this far.
Ivandoe: Lying down, annoyed Bert, if you say "maybe Hanzo was right" one more time—.
(Suddenly, a rustling sound surrounds them. Both Ivandoe and Bert jump to their feet, their
eyes darting around the dark forest.)
Bert: Wide-eyed Sire... d-did you hear that?
Ivandoe: Grabbing Titans Thunder Who's there?! Show yourself!
(A low, chuckling sound echoes from the trees. From the shadows emerged not one, but
three tanuki—members of Hachimon's family, all grinning with mischief. Hachimon
himself appears in the center)
Hachimon: Smirking Good evening, your highness. Enjoying your stay in Kamura Forest?
Ivandoe: Frustrated You! Give me back my gold, or I'll—!
Hachimon: Laughing Oh, relax, young prince. You're not going to get your gold back that
easily. My family and I thought we'd have a bit of fun first.
(One of the tanuki tosses a handful of leaves into the air, and as they flutter down, they
transform into golden coins, shimmering in the firelight.)
Bert: Gasping Look, sire! It's your gold!
Ivandoe: Reaching for the coins Finally—!
(But as soon as Ivandoe's hoof touches the coins, they turned back into leaves.)
Hachimon: Cackling Oh, dear! It seems you've fallen for another one of our tricks!
Ivandoe: Fuming Enough of this! I demand you stop this at once!
Hachimon: Feigning innocence Oh, but we're just getting started, your highness.
(The other tanuki join in, transforming into various shapes—a giant stalk of bamboo, a
towering tree, even a shimmering river that snaked its way through the camp, all illusions
designed to confuse and torment the prince and his squire.)
Bert: Hiding behind Ivandoe S-Sire, this is getting worse. What if we can't make it out?
Ivandoe: Frustrated We'll be fine! We just need to—.
(Suddenly, the ground beneath them shifted, and the forest itself seemed to twist. Trees
moved, paths disappeared, and the stars above vanished behind a thick canopy of leaves.)
Hachimon: Grinning Good luck finding your way out now, your highness. This forest is a
maze of illusions, and only those who truly understand us tanuki can escape.
Ivandoe: Angrily You won't get away with this!
Hachimon: Bowing I already have! Sweet dreams, Prince Ivandoe!
(With that, the tanuki vanish into the shadows, leaving Ivandoe and Bert standing in the
center of a forest that no longer looked familiar.)
Ivandoe: Stomping his hoof Oh, that infuriating raccoon!
Bert: W-What do we do now, sire?
Ivandoe: Sighing, sitting down We wait until morning, Bert. Once the sun is up, we'll find
our way out of here, and catch that thief.
Bert: Shivering I hope so, sire... I hope so.
(The night is long and filled with strange noises as Ivandoe and Bert huddle by their
campfire. Meanwhile, Hachimon and his family watch from the shadows, their laughter
echoing through the trees as they prepare for their next round of tricks.)
(Morning comes, and the first rays of sunlight peek through the trees, but instead of a
peaceful awakening, Ivandoe is met with an odd sensation.)
Ivandoe: Frowning groggily, still half asleep Hmm... my pillow feels... weird.
(Ivandoe shifts, trying to fluff it, only for the "pillow" to giggle. Ivandoe's eyes shoot open,
and he bolts upright.)
Ivandoe: Horrified What the—?!
(The "pillow" shifts and morphs, revealing itself to be a tanuki, now back in their true form,
grinning up at him.)
Bert: Waking up Sire? What's wrong?
Ivandoe: Pointing My pillow! It's a racoon!
Bert: A what!?
(Before either of them can react, the tanuki pillow darts out of the tent, cackling as it
leaves. Before they could process the situation, the tea kettle near their campfire suddenly
whistled loudly, steam billowing from its spout. It ran inside the tent, but as Ivandoe
reached for it, the kettle revealed itself to be another tanuki, who hopped to its feet and
cackled.)
Tanuki 3: Laughing Care for some tea, your highness?
Ivandoe: Oh, COME ON!
(The kettle shape-shifts back into a tanuki, this one laughing heartily as it danced away with
its siblings)
Bert: Trembling Sire, I think we've been... surrounded!
Ivandoe: You, THINK?!
(Ivandoe storms out of the tent, only to find the entire campsite in chaos. His cart of
supplies has been completely ransacked, his clothes and supplies scattered everywhere,
and food strewn all across the ground. And there, in the middle of the mess, was Hachimon
and his family, gleefully tearing through everything.)
Hachimon: Juggling some golden coins while perched atop Ivandoe's cart Good morning,
your highness! Did you sleep well? I do hope the pillow was to your liking.
Tanuki 1: Laughing We made it extra fluffy!
Tanuki 2: Holding a ladle and wearing one of Ivandoe's tunics Oh, and the tea kettle? I
heard it was brewing up quite the surprise! Chuckles
Ivandoe: Furious You thieving, shapeshifting, mischief-making scoundrels! How dare you
mock a prince?!
Hachimon: Gasps Mock? Why, we would never! We're merely... borrowing some of your
fine royal goods. We'll return them... eventually.
(As Hachimon spoke, one of his siblings darted by, snatching Ivandoe's wooden sword and
laughing as they spun it through the air.)
Tanuki 3: Grinning Look, a warrior's weapon! Oh, so fearsome!
(Another tanuki, now wearing Ivandoe's tunic, dances around in circles, making
exaggerated swipes with the wooden sword.)
Ivandoe: Trying to catch them "Give that back! Titan's Thunder is for fearsome warriors! Not
silly racoons!
(Before Ivandoe can grab the sword, the tanuki holding it shape shifts into a small stone,
causing Ivandoe to stumble past. The sword falls on the ground, only for yet another tanuki
to snatch it up and run off again.)
(One of the tanuki had transformed into Bert's hat and was now pulling itself down over his
eyes, laughing mischievously.)
Bert: Panicked S-Sire! My hat! It's alive!
(A group of tanuki lunge at Ivandoe and Bert, swiftly tying them up with ropes made from
vines. Despite their struggles, the duo was bound tightly, forced to sit back-to-back while
the tanuki swarmed around them, cackling and poking fun. In a flurry of mischief, they
snatch Ivandoe's tunic and his wooden sword, tossing them between each other like a
game.)
Tanuki 5: Twirling Ivandoe's wooden sword A prince without his sword, is he still a prince?
Mocks, waving the sword like a toy
Ivandoe: Struggling in the ropes Why you! Untie me this instant!
Hachimon: Snickers, flipping through Ivandoe's personal belongings Oh, what do we have
here?
(Hachimon pulls out a small picture of Ivandoe's family—a portrait of King Knut, Queen
Kristine, and a much younger Ivandoe. Hachimon's eyes twinkle with mischief.)
Hachimon: Grinning Oh, this is rich.
(Hachimon shape-shifts into none other than King Knut. The resemblance is uncanny—
right down to the regal posture and Knut's stern expression.)
Hachimon (as Knut): Mockingly, in a deep voice Ivandoe, my son! What have you gotten
yourself into now? Playing with common tanuki, I see!
(The other tanuki howled with laughter, slapping their bellies and rolling on the ground.)
Ivandoe: Furious, face turning red How dare you! That's not funny! Stop it at once!
(Before he could finish, Hachimon shape-shiftes into Nanny)
Hachimon (as Nanny): Oh, my poor DoeDoe! What would your dear nanny say if she saw
you now? Captured by silly raccoons and trussed up like a naughty little fawn!
(Another tanuki sees the picture and shape-shifts into Queen Kristine)
Tanuki 1 (As Kristine): Laughing Don't forget your vegetables, DoeDoe! Mummy says so!
Ivandoe: Gasps How dare you shape-shift into my Mama! have you no respect?!
Tanuki 1(As Kristine) Chuckles
Bert: Frantically trying to wriggle free We have to think of a plan, Sire! If I can just—.
Hachimon: Interrupting Plan? Oh, this is our plan! You two are the stars of the show now!
(Ivandoe's anger boils over. But before he could shout in protest, several more tanuki
gather around him and Bert. With devilish grins, they all morph into versions of Prince
Ivandoe—each one mimicking him in exaggerated, ridiculous ways.)
Tanuki 5 (As Ivandoe): Prancing dramatically I'm the valiant Prince Ivandoe, bravest of all
the forest! Fear me, or I shall run away and cry to my Mummy!
Tanuki 6 (As Ivandoe): Pretending to sob Daddy! Mummy! Help me!
Bert: Trying to hold in his laughter but failing S-Sire, they look just like you!
Ivandoe: Humiliated That's not funny, Bert!
(The tanuki continue their mockery, imitating Ivandoe's voice and his posture in absurd,
exaggerated ways.)
Hachimon (As Ivandoe): Standing tall I am Prince Ivandoe of The Mighty Stag Kingdom, and
I demand you... bring me my blankie!
(The entire tanuki family exploded with laughter, rolling around and clutching their sides.
Ivandoe, tied up and fuming, could only grit his teeth and endure the relentless teasing.)
Ivandoe: Muttering to himself Ooh, when I get out of here!
Hachimon (As Ivandoe): Mocking, still prancing Oh no, Bertie! My sword! My... dignity! WAHHH! WAHH! (Sucks thumb)
Bert: Still chuckling At least, they got your walk right, Sire…
Ivandoe: Not helping, Bert.
Hachimon: Transforming back into his true form, still laughing Oh, you two are the best
entertainment we've had in ages! We might just keep you around!
Ivandoe: Scowling You think this is funny? You'll pay for this mockery!
Hachimon: That's adorable, your highness! But let me share a little secret with you.
Ivandoe: Struggling in the ropes, still scowling What secret?
Hachimon: Kamura Forest… isn't really a forest! Chuckles
Bert: What do you mean? We've been wandering in this forest for hours!
Hachimon: Smirking Ah, that's the trick, isn't it? This place you call a forest is nothing but a
grand illusion—a masterpiece created by my family and me. What you see? What you feel?
It's all our doing. You think you're lost in a forest, but in reality, you've been walking in
circles, right under our noses the whole time!
Ivandoe: Eyes widening in disbelief An illusion? All of it?
Bert: Nervously tugging at his tied-up wings But... why? Why do this to us?
Hachimon: Grinning mischievously Why not? It's in our nature! We've pulled pranks on
everyone—from wandering samurai to unsuspecting villagers, even the occasional
nobleman who thinks he's too clever to be tricked. Just last month, my cousin turned an
entire village's rice into pebbles during a festival. The looks on their faces when they tried
to cook dinner were priceless!
Ivandoe: Fuming You're nothing but a band of thieves and tricksters!
Hachimon: Laughing Thieves? Maybe! But tricksters? Always! We've entertained ourselves
for centuries with these little games. One time, a group of samurai came marching through
here, thinking they could clear out the 'haunted woods.' We made them think their own
swords had turned into snakes! They ran out screaming like frightened children.
Bert: You've tricked samurai?
Hachimon: Proudly Oh, samurai are some of the best! Their pride makes them the perfect
targets. We made one warrior think he'd been cursed by a spirit. He spent three days
meditating under a waterfall to "cleanse" himself of our prank. We were in stitches
watching him!
Ivandoe: You may have fooled others, but you won't fool me again! When I get out of these
ropes, I'll show you what happens when you cross a prince!
Hachimon: Mockingly bowing Oh, please! Do tell me what the great Prince Ivandoe will do.
Perhaps challenge me to a duel? With what sword, exactly? Oh wait, that's right… You
don't have one anymore! Laughs again
Tanuki 7: Joining the mockery, shifting into the form of a samurai Yes, honorable prince!
Face me in battle! I'm sure you'll triumph without a blade! Mock-dueling with a stick,
before collapsing into giggles
Hachimon: Turning to his family Ah, but there was this one time we turned a lord's entire
wedding ceremony into chaos. The guests? All frogs! The bride? A pile of manure! We've
pulled tricks on some of Japan's finest, and I must say, your reaction, dear prince, ranks
among my favorites.
Ivandoe: I won't let you get away with this! You'll regret crossing me!
Hachimon: Smirking, leaning down to Ivandoe Don't take it personally, kodomo (Kid). We
tanuki have been playing tricks for centuries. You're just the latest in a long line of fools
who've fallen for our games. But I have to say, your performance has been particularly...
amusing.
Ivandoe: This isn't over... not by a long shot!
Hachimon: Oh, we're counting on it! Chuckles
(As Hachimon and his family continue to dance around Ivandoe's campsite, pulling more
supplies from his cart, laughing, and playfully mocking the prince, Ivandoe sees a small
chance to escape.)
Ivandoe: Whispering Bert, while they're distracted... we sneak away.
Bert: Eyes wide, whispering back S-Sneak away? But they're everywhere, Sire!
Ivandoe: Narrowing his eyes, whispering Trust me, Bertie. We're not staying here to be their
entertainment any longer!
(Carefully, Ivandoe and Bert shuffle closer to the edge of the camp, watching as the tanuki
family becomes more engrossed in their mischief. One tanuki is juggling fruit, another has
turned into a set of pots, clanging them together loudly, and Hachimon is lounging atop a
pile of what was left of Ivandoe's supplies.)
Hachimon: Laughing Look at all these fine royal items! Such quality! Such craftsmanship!
And all for us!
Ivandoe: Muttering under his breath Not for long...
(With quick, silent movements, Ivandoe and Bert slip away from the chaos, disappearing into the cover of the trees.)
(A short distance away, after what feels like an eternity of
sneaking through the woods, they stumble upon Hanzo. He's sitting calmly on a log, eyes
closed, meditating in peaceful stillness, completely unaware of the trouble behind him.)
Ivandoe: Hanzo! Hanzo, help!
(Hanzo opens his eyes slowly, his calm demeanor unshaken as he observes Ivandoe and
Bert. His gaze shifts, and he raises an eyebrow at Ivandoe's disheveled state and Bert,
missing his hat and looking equally frazzled.)
Hanzo: Ivandoe-sama... Bert... where are your clothes? What happened?"
Ivandoe: It's those blasted tanuki! They took everything! My clothes, my sword, even Bert's
hat! And they tied us up!
Bert: Nodding vigorously They turned into pillows, the tea kettle, and even into the prince
himself! It's chaos back at camp!
Hanzo: Nods slowly, and unties Ivandoe and Bert I see... and you wish for my help?
Ivandoe: Yes! You're my yojimbo remember? You must do something! This is an outrage, a
disgrace to my royal dignity!
Hanzo: Standing up and folding his arms Ivandoe-sama, do you remember my warning?
Ivandoe: Blinking Warning? What warning?
Hanzo: Sighing I warned you to stay away from Kamura Forest. The tanuki are not to be
trifled with. Yet you disregarded my words and marched right in, seeking to challenge
Hachimon. You ignored my advice.
Ivandoe: I had no idea it would turn into...THAT!
Hanzo: Precisely. And now, you find yourself in this predicament. But I am a samurai of
honor. I cannot intervene when my counsel was ignored.
Ivandoe: But—Hanzo, I'm a prince! Surely you can't just leave us like this!
Bert: Please, Hanzo! They're tearing everything apart!
Hanzo: Looking down at the two with a neutral expression It is not my place to undo the
lessons one must learn. The tanuki thrive on arrogance and carelessness. Perhaps there is
a lesson in this for you both.
Ivandoe: A lesson?! I don't need a lesson! I need my clothes back!
Hanzo: And perhaps next time, Ivandoe-sama, you will listen to those who offer guidance.
Ivandoe: Please, Hanzo! You can't just leave us to those... thieving raccoons! I'll—I'll listen
next time, I swear! He leans forward, clasping his hooves together, his expression softening
I was wrong not to heed your warning, Hanzo. I should've respected your wisdom.
Hanzo: Raising an eyebrow Oh? And why should I believe you now, Ivandoe-sama?
Ivandoe: Because... I need you. You're the only one who can put an end to this! I promise I'll
listen to you more. I'll never ignore your advice again!
Hanzo: Sumimasen Ivandoe-sama, you speak with remorse, but promises are easy when
one is desperate.
Ivandoe: Giving him a pleading look I'm not just desperate, Hanzo. I'm genuinely sorry.
Hanzo: Sighing quietly, looking down at the ground for a moment A prince who can admit
fault... that is a start. Very well. I will help you.
Ivandoe: Really?! Oh, thank you, Hanzo! I knew I could count on you! Hugs Hanzo
Hanzo: Sighs Alright, that's enough.
Ivandoe: Backs up Okay, okay, sorry. Nervously chuckles
Hanzo: Now, stay close. The tanuki are tricky creatures, but they can be outwitted with
discipline and patience. Tora wa nyūkou suru made keshinai.
Ivandoe: I'm sorry, what?
Hanzo: A tiger doesn't reveal its claws until the time is right.
Ivandoe: Blinking Oh... right. The claws and all...Totally get it. Chuckles nervously
Hanzo: I will deal with these tanuki, but remember, do not act rashly. They thrive on chaos.
(With a sense of renewed determination, Ivandoe and Bert follow Hanzo back toward the
camp.)
(As they approach, the sounds of the tanuki's laughter and the clanging of pots grow
louder. When they reach the clearing, Hanzo strides forward with a calm, yet commanding
presence. The tanuki freeze, their mischief cut short, as they stare at the imposing figure of
the Akita Inu.)
Tanuki 1: Whispering Is that... a samurai!
Tanuki 2: Wide-eyed What is he doing here?
(Hachimon, lounging on top of Ivandoe's cart, sits up with a start. His playful grin falters for
a moment when he recognizes Hanzo, but then quickly returns.)
Hachimon: Grinning Well, well, if it isn't Hanzo Kobayashi. Long time no see. I didn't think
I'd have the pleasure of meeting you again. How is the Shogun's great protector?
(Hanzo narrows his eyes but doesn't draw his sword. He simply folds his arms as his
presence seems to command silence.)
Hachimon: What brings you to our humble fun? Surely, you're not here to stop a few
harmless pranks?
Hanzo: Hachimon Yabushige, grandson of Danzaburou-danuki. I see you are still causing
trouble after all these years. This place reeks of your family's illusions.
(The other tanuki nervously exchange glances, whispering among themselves about
Hanzo's reputation. Hachimon, however, seems unfazed. He leaps down from the cart,
strutting forward with his usual swagger.)
Hachimon: Smirking Ah, it's an honor to be remembered by one as noble as yourself,
Hanzo-san. Grandfather would be pleased. But surely, you wouldn't ruin our little game,
would you? After all, these travelers stumbled into our forest. All we did was greet them in
our usual way.
(Hanzo's expression doesn't change. His voice remains calm but firm.)
Hanzo: Enough of these games. Return what you have taken from Prince Ivandoe and his
squire.
(The tanuki murmur among themselves, a bit anxious now that a samurai stands before
them. Hachimon, however, remains unfazed, his grin still firmly in place.)
Hachimon: Chuckling Oh, Hanzo-san, I see you're as no-nonsense as ever. But I remember
a time when even the great Hanzo liked a challenge.
(Hanzo raises an eyebrow but remains silent.)
Hachimon: Tell you what—let's make this interesting. I propose a challenge, as is the
custom of our kind. A battle of wits, perhaps. If you outsmart me, I will return everything to
the prince. If you lose...Grinning wider...you leave us be and let us enjoy our spoils. What
do you say, Hanzo-san? Or has the great Akita Inu lost his edge?
(Hanzo's expression remains stern, though his eyes show a hint of recognition. He
remembers Danzaburou-danuki, the legendary tanuki trickster, and his games of wit were
famous across Japan.)
Ivandoe: Don't fall for it, Hanzo! He's just trying to trick you!
Hanzo: Raises a paw Enough, Ivandoe-sama! Let me handle this. Eyes locked on
Hachimon I accept. Keiyaku wa keiyaku da. A deal is a deal.
(Hachimon's grin widens even more, clearly thrilled at the prospect of testing his wit
against the great samurai.)
Hachimon: Very well, then! Let the challange begin!
(Hachimon takes a few steps back, a mischievous glint in his eyes. In a flash, he transforms
into a magnificent horse, his mane flowing as he stomps his hooves on the ground.)
Hachimon (As a horse): Neighing playfully Come, Hanzo-san, I am a humble steed. Surely
you've ridden into battle on stronger horses?
(The other tanuki burst into laughter, their voices echoing through the forest. Ivandoe and
Bert exchange worried glances, concern etching their faces.)
Bert: He's just trying to make a fool of him!
Ivandoe: What if he throws you off Hanzo? That thief has tricks up his sleeve!
Hanzo: Do not worry, Ivandoe-sama. I will handle this.
(Hanzo, maintaining his composure, strides confidently toward Hachimon and mounts the
horse, gripping the reins tightly.)
Hanzo: A samurai knows no fear, Hachimon. Ready when you are.
Hachimon: Snorting playfully Hold on tight!
(With that, Hachimon gallops off into the woods, the ground shaking beneath them. Hanzo
struggles to stay steady as the horse darts left and right. Ivandoe and Bert exchange
worried glances, the sound of hoofbeats echoing through the forest. Hanzo, determined,
shifts his weight to keep steady, even as Hachimon zigzags through the trees, trying to
throw him off.)
Tanuki: Cheering HACHIMON! HACHIMON!
Hanzo: Gritting his teeth You'll have to do better than this, Hachi-san!
(Suddenly, Hachimon gallops toward a steep incline, but just before reaching it, his form
shifts again. He transforms into a sleek, low-to-the-ground badger, darting off through the
underbrush.)
Ivandoe: Hanzo! He's getting away!
(Hanzo quickly dismounts before Hachimon disappears into the brush, following closely on
foot. He watches the badger zigzag through the trees, barely making a sound.)
Hanzo: Muttering to himself So, he thinks stealth will help him. Interesting...
(With a flash of movement, Hanzo sprints ahead, cutting off Hachimon's path. The badger
freezes, eyes gleaming, before its form melts into that of a coiled, venomous snake. The
snake lunges at Hanzo with blinding speed, fangs bared. Hanzo steps back just in time, his
paw steady on the hilt of his katana.)
Hachimon (As a snake): Hissing You are quick, Hanzo-san, but are you quick enough?
(Hanzo stands still, watching carefully, waiting for the right moment. Just as the snake coils
to strike again, Hanzo swiftly draws his blade, the sharp sound of the sword cutting through
the air as he moves with lightning speed. His blade stops just short of Hachimon's head,
forcing the snake to retreat.)
Hanzo: Fast, but predictable.
(Without missing a beat, Hachimon changes forms again—this time into a nimble monkey.
He leaps from tree to tree, screeching and laughing.)
Hachimon(As a monkey): Swinging from a branch Catch me if you can, Hanzo-san!
(The monkey swings higher and higher, moving with agility and playfulness. Hanzo follows
below, his eyes focused, never losing sight of his opponent. Ivandoe and Bert watch
nervously, their anxiety growing.)
Bert: Whispering He's toying with him, sire! What if Hanzo can't catch him?
Ivandoe: He'll find a way. He's got to!
(Suddenly, the playful laughter stops, and Hachimon leaps down from the treetops, his
form expanding into something much larger. In the blink of an eye, Hachimon becomes a
massive tiger. His fur striped in orange and black, but with a terrifying twist. He lands with a
heavy thud on the forest floor. His eyes glow with menace, and his claws dig into the
ground as he circles Hanzo. Flames erupt from his mouth as he roars, filling the air with
heat and fury. His family cheer louder than ever.)
Tanuki Crowd: Hachimon! Hachimon! Hachimon!
Ivandoe: A fire-breathing tiger?! But! But that's not fair!
Bert: Gulps We're doomed.
(Hanzo, momentarily caught off guard by the sudden change in size and power, watches as
the tiger paces. Hachimon, now in his most fearsome form, roars and lunges at Hanzo.
Hanzo barely dodges the first swipe, rolling out of the way as Hachimon swiped again,
sending a fiery arc through the air. The tiger's claws caught Hanzo's armor, knocking him off
his feet and sending him skidding across the dirt.)
Ivandoe: Gasping Hanzo!
(The tiger looms over him, growling menacingly, but Hanzo remains calm. He thinks
quickly, understanding that brute force won't win against the raw power of a tiger.)
Hachimon (As a tiger) Growling, his voice booming from his jaws You've grown slow,
Hanzo-san! Is this the limit of your skill?
(Hachimon lunges again, swiping with massive claws, but Hanzo rolls out of the way,
grabbing a handful of dirt in his paw. Just as Hachimon pounces again, Hanzo flings the dirt
into the tiger's eyes, momentarily blinding him.)
Hachimon: Roaring, stumbling
Ivandoe and Bert: WOAH!
(Hanzo, seizing the opportunity, flips back to his paws, drawing his katana and standing
firm.)
Hanzo: Calmy You're strong, Hachimon, but strength fades. You rely too much on your
forms. It's time to end this.
(Hachimon, still blinded, swipes wildly, but his attacks are now unfocused. Hanzo circles
him, watching for the right moment. When the Hachimon begins to tire, Hanzo leaps onto
its back, positioning his katana at the tiger's neck, but not striking. Hachimon, feeling the
weight of Hanzo's presence and the sharpness of the katana against his fur, finally relents.
The growl in his throat faded as he let out a resigned sigh.)
Hachimon: Alright, alright Hanzo-san! You've outsmarted me! I'll return what I took from
the prince.
(Hanzo slowly removes his katana from Hachimon's neck, allowing the tanuki to transform
back to his normal form. Hachimon's murmurs, casting glances at one another, their
reluctance clear.)
Hanzo: And you'll see to it that your family helps to fix what you've done. Return everything
to Prince Ivandoe and his squire.
(The tanuki murmur among themselves, some exchanging worried glances, but Hachimon
rolls his eyes and waves his paw.)
Hachimon: You heard him! Let's get to it, everyone!
(The tanuki reluctantly begin to gather Ivandoe's supplies and repair the cart. Ivandoe
watches with growing excitement as his things are returned to him. Even the bag of gold
Hachimon had swindled Ivandoe out of.)
Ivandoe: Thank you, Mr. Racoon. I knew you'd come through.
Hachimon: Not a ra-. Oh, never mind.
(Hachimon grumbles under his breath but gestures for the other tanuki to hurry. Soon
enough, the cart is rebuilt, and all of Ivandoe's supplies are returned, including Bert's hat
and Ivandoe's clothes.)
Ivandoe: Putting on clothes Ah, much better!
Bert: Adjusting his hat So glad to have this back. I was feeling a bit nippy without it.
Hachimon: Next time, stay out of our forest.
(Hanzo observes the tanuki, ensuring they comply with his orders. With everything finally in
place, he nods approvingly.)
Hanzo: Good. Let's leave this place behind.
(As they set out down the path, Ivandoe feels the excitement of adventure bubbling up inside him.)
Hanzo: So, what did you learn today, Ivandoe-sama?
Ivandoe: Puffing out his chest That I'm the greatest hero that ever lived! I mean, did you see
how brave I was?
(Hanzo sighs, shaking his head.)
Hanzo: Bravery without caution can lead to trouble, Ivandoe-sama. Remember that.
Ivandoe: Yes, yes right. Come Hanzo, Bert, it's time to—!
(Suddenly, Hachimon leaps out, shape-shifted into a perfect copy of Ivandoe, grinning widely.)
Hachimon (As Ivandoe): Quest on!
Ivandoe: HEY!
(Hachimon chuckles, reverting to his tanuki form as he dashes into the underbrush, laughter echoing behind him.)