A/N: For those still interested, thank you for adding me. I wanted to point out that I had to change the teaser in the prologue to fit the fact that this was taking a LOT longer to write than I thought. I'd thought I'd get it done in time before the end of the 27th, but I was wrong. And what's so important about the 27th of November you ask? Well, it just so happens to be the birthday of the greatest Martial Artist of the 20th Century! For those that don't know, on this day 82 years ago, Bruce Lee was born.
Anyway, here's the start of my second Super Sentai Crossover. It's gonna be a lot different than my first. One of the biggest differences is that we're getting into the action pretty early. That and there'll be songs. The reason? It may be fanfiction, but it's STILL Disney. Also, it's my first time including a song in one of my stories, so bear with me, okay? More on the other differences later. For now, time to get started. IKUZO!
Text Legend:
"Attacks/Moves"
Sound Effects
Singing
Chapter One: The Outsider
The Boiling Isles. It housed cities and towns that were built upon the remains of a gargantuan beast known as "The Titan". It was also, arguably, one of the most well-known places in all of the Demon Realm, and rightly so. Because this was where many witches, warlocks, and wizards, both distinguished and otherwise, called their home. It was also home to many different magical creatures that one would only find in one's imagination. As the afternoon sun rose above the isles and many of the citizens of the town of Bonesborough went about their daily routine, the mail couriers were making their daily rounds. One delivery man, or boy, in particular was casually flying on a broom above all the houses and buildings on his way to his final stop. He was a young boy who was about 14 years old with tanned skin, brown eyes, and a set of pointed ears. His current attire was his mail courier uniform which consisted of a khaki button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up, a pair of dark brown slacks, brown leather shoes, and a brown hat that kept his dark brown and slightly unkempt hair in place. His name was Ashton Rugrid, or Ash to his friends, and today was going to wrap up his first month on the job. Despite a few bumps, he'd managed to last longer at this job than he thought. Looking down, he spotted a thatched roof cottage and headed down towards it. As he touched down, he reached into his blackened burlap sack and pulled out a soot covered package. Walking over to the front door, he placed it down on the welcome mat. He then reached into his pocket, pulled out a small notepad and pen, and crossed off the last item on the list.
"Alright then", he said proudly as he walked back over to his broom, "That's the last one! It's gotten pretty easy for me. May not be glamorous, but the work is easy, the pay is good, and so far, I haven't had any complaints"!
Later
"What do you mean I've gotten over a dozen complaints"?!
Ash had now returned to his place of work at the post office. He currently sat in the postmaster's office where his boss, Mr. Huntley, a man lion hybrid, looked at him with displeasure.
"Look, Ash, you're a good worker and you've managed to outpace all your fellow couriers, but I've gotten complaints about people finding their packages singed, burned, reduced to a crisp shell of what they were, OR covered in soot"! Mr. Huntley said firmly.
"Heh, well, that's bound to happen when you use fire magic for an extra speed boost", Ash said nervously, "Sometimes things get caught in the afterburn".
"Yeah, things like peoples' mail"! Mr. Huntley said firmly.
"It's not like I did it on purpose"! Ash argued.
"Maybe not, but it's been happening TOO frequently"! Mr. Huntley countered, "Out of all your deliveries, only 30% end up being scorch free. 30 PERCENT! And THAT'S being generous"!
Ash looked away in shame, unable to look at his boss's disappointed face. Mr. Huntley then let out a long sigh as he rubbed the bridge of his nose.
"I'll improve", Ash muttered.
"I think it's safe to say that there's no room left for improvement", Mr. Huntley sighed.
"What's that supposed to mean"? Ash asked, instantly offended.
"It means I have to let you go", Mr. Huntley said, reaching into his desk drawer and pulling out a large metal box.
"You're firing me"?! Ash said standing up from his seat.
"I'm sorry, Ash, but I can't afford to keep you on with all the damage you've done", Mr. Huntley said firmly.
"Look, I'll never do it again! I'll take a cut in pay! Anything! Just PLEASE"! Ash begged, slamming his hands against the desk, "I NEED this job, just gimme one last chance"!
"Ash, I gave you one last chance last week in the sorting room, before that I gave you one last chance at the help desk", Mr. Huntley said irately before letting out a long sigh, "I'm sorry... but the fact is that you're more trouble than you're worth".
With that final statement, Mr. Huntley proceeded to pull out a large drawstring bag about the size of a pineapple. Its' sides bulged, taking the shape of the coins inside.
"Two weeks' pay and two weeks' severance", Mr. Huntley said, going over the standard employment termination routine, "You can keep the shirt, but the hat is company property. Please pack your things and exit the premises as soon as possible".
Ash's eyes went from the bag to Mr. Huntley, still in disbelief over the current situation.
"I'm sorry, Ash, but it is for the best", Mr. Huntley said, his voice slightly hinting at some regret.
Ash frowned as he picked up the bag from the desk.
"Fine then", he grumbled as he took off his hat and threw it on the floor.
He then exited the office without saying another word and headed towards his desk to clear out his things.
Later that day, Ash slowly made his way down the streets of Bonesborough, still in utter disbelief that he had just been fired. What's more, this wasn't the first time. In the course of almost 4 years, he had been fired from 8 different jobs, and today's termination made a total of 9. His feet felt as if they were ten times heavier than they were before as he walked down the cobblestone street. A sigh escaped from him as he replayed the previous events in his head for the umpteenth time.
"That's the 3rd job this year", he groaned, "Then again, it's one less than last year. Ugh, what am I gonna tell Eda"?
"Hey Rugrid! Ya get the boot again or what"!?
A nearby onlooker laughed and jeered with his friends as the young teen staunchly ignored them. Unfortunately, Ash could only grit his teeth as the sound of their distasteful mocking filled his ears. Every bone in his body wanted him to rush over them and make those jerks shut their mouths, whether with words or with fighting. With the day he'd had right now, his blood was boiling so bad he was so tempted to quench his thirst for satisfaction that he subconsciously reached down towards his side, about ready to pull out what seemed like a concealed weapon of sorts. Before he could get the chance however, a brown-haired witch came running through the streets with a panicked look on her face.
"Everyone, take cover"! She cried, "Zecker's headed this way"!
"What?! I thought he was locked up"! One of the hecklers exclaimed, suddenly filled with dread.
"He must've jumped the fence", assumed one of the other hecklers.
"But isn't the Conformatorium's wall is too high to jump".
"It's an expression, Kevin! Why must you always undermine my statements with logic"?!
"I'm sorry, I just thought-"!
"Would you two idiots quit this argument?! We're about to get PASTED"!
While everyone out in the streets were busy trying to hide from the oncoming threat that was "Zecker", Ash headed into a nearby alleyway. After setting his box down, he looked around to make sure he was completely alone. With the coast clear, he reached to his side and slowly pulled out his wand. It was a 14-inch, wooden-made wand with a bright red shaft with a grey metal cap on each end. The cap at the end had a half inch point at the end. On the other cap that acted as the pommel was a bright red jewel in the shape of a bird-like figure.
"Least there's one job that I can still take satisfaction in doing", Ash said to himself.
After concentrating for a few seconds, the wand's jewel started to glow and slowly started to change. Until at last, the wand had completely changed. In its' place was a black and gold flip phone. This was his MagiPhone, a relic by todays' standards, but still fully functional, nonetheless. After flipping it open, he pressed a button on the side which caused the top part to extend, giving it the appearence of a wand. He then proceeded to press a few buttons on the key pad
"Heavenly Saint! Grant Me The Power Of Thy Magic! Mahou Henshin! Maagi Magi, MAGIIRO"!
Upon uttering that final word, he then lifted his wand up into the air to where the gem was pointed at the sky. A brilliant light shown from the gem, which began to grow brighter until, at last, it engulfed everything around it, including Ash.
Meanwhile, the streets of Bonesborough had been cleared out. All was quiet, save for the loud sounds of encroaching footsteps. A small puddle on the street began to ripple as they grew closer. From behind one of the buildings came a large 7 foot tall, green skinned ogre with dark brown eyes and brown hair. The horns sticking out of his head looked like two halves of a football two sets of fangs showed from his upper and lower lips. He wore a set of armor consisting of a long brown leather vest held at the waste by a long piece of rope, a dull grey breast plate, a set of pauldrons, two leather bands on his wrists and a pair brown steel-plated leather boots. His name was Zecker Morgrave, but around town he was known as the Big Z.
His boots made a hollow and metallic squeak as he walked across the street. Looking around, a growl escaped his lips. As he continued his trek forward, he looked around to see if anyone was still present. His right ear twitched as a faint noise was suddenly picked up by his impressive sense of hearing. He cast his gaze over to a set of crates which sat at his right. Upon approaching the crates, he lifted his great fist and smashed them in one swing.
CRASH!
"Aaaah"!
A middle-aged couple, a man and woman, both shrieked as their cover had now been exposed. Zecker smirked as he saw them tremble with fear.
"Well, well, what have we here"? He said, "A lovely couple out for a stroll? How endearing~".
"Please, Zecker, sir, we meant no disrespect"! The woman pleaded.
"Was it out of respect that you failed to deliver your monthly payment"? Zecker said frowning, "Or did you think that me getting locked up meant you got an extension"?
"No! We didn't forget! We just-", the man started.
"No more excuses"! Zecker shouted, "I want my money NOW"!
"Just give it to him, dear", the woman urged.
"A-alright! Here"! The man said nervously, holding out a bag full of coins he had from his satchel.
Zecker quickly snatched it from him. He held it close to his ear and shook it around gently, as if determining how much was inside. Once he was finished, he looked most displeased.
"You're 500 snails short", he growled.
"That's all the money we have! Honest"! The man pleaded, "I mean, we have kids to feed, after all! I have to look out for my family"!
"A family man, eh"? Zecker said, with a knowing grin, "Well then..."!
"Aeeeiiiii"!
Before anyone could blink, Zecker hoisted the woman off the ground by the back of her shirt and dangled her in front of her husband.
"No! Wait! The man begged.
"Okay. Mr. Family Man, either you cough up the other 500 snails you owe me, or I'll make providing for your family easier by cutting out one of your expenses"! Zecker threatened as he pulled out a curved knife from behind his back.
The husband and wife both stared at the knife the ogre held in trepidation, knowing full well that Zecker truly planned to use it.
"I-I don't have any more money, I swear"! The man said nervously.
"Then I guess it's time for a little deduction"! Zecker sneered, readying the knife.
"Darling"! Cried the woman, reaching out towards her husband.
"No! PLEASE DON'T"! The man exclaimed.
Both members of the married couple could only shut their eyes in preparation for what was about to happen. However, all three members present were unprepared for what happened next.
FWOOSH!
"Aaaugh"!
A fireball flew through the air and hit Zecker's hand, knocking the knife out of his grip. The ogre also managed to lose his grip on the woman who, after landing on the ground, ran towards her husband, who grabbed her in a tearful embrace.
"Who dares"?! Zecker snarled as he looked around and nursed his injured hand.
"Up here"!
The ogre and the married couple looked up to where the strange voice had come from. It was up on the roof above them that they saw the source of the voice. A tall imposing figure wearing a red suit with black lines on different parts of the design. A red helmet with a black bird shaped visor covered his entire head. His scarlet cape flowed in the breeze. Everyone who saw him down below recognized him immediately.
"I had a feeling you'd get out sooner or later, Big Z, but I didn't think it'd be this soon", he jested.
"You"! Zecker growled angrily.
"He's here", the woman gasped.
"Oh thank Titan", the man as he smiled through the tears, "We're saved"!
The mysterious red clad figure bent his legs before somersaulting off the edge of the building. With a few twists and turns, he landed a few feet ahead of them and then turned to face them.
"I was wondering when you were gonna show up", Zecker said suddenly breaking out into a smile, "When I got out, I was hoping you'd be the first person to welcome me back. But since no one knows where you are or where you go when you disappear from the scene, I had to come to you".
"So sorry to have kept you waiting then", the figure replied coolly.
"It doesn't matter", Zecker uttered in a low voice, "I've waited a long time for this. Five months I was locked up, FIVE MONTHS of my freedom, GONE! And it's all because of YOU! I'll finally have my revenge on you, MagiRed"!
Some of the people who heard slowly emerged from their hiding spots as the name of the couples' mysterious savior filled the air.
"Did you hear that? MagiRed"!
"Yes! The Ruby Wizard"!
"He's here! He came to save us"!
"We're saved"!
"I knew he'd come! I just knew it"!
The fear that had so easily enveloped everyone earlier was slowly melting away. The masked wizard's arrival was slowly beginning to fill them with a new sense of hope. Everyone who was hiding slowly began to emerge from their hiding spots, anxious to see how the lone wizard would fare against the seemingly more physically capable opponent.
"This won't be like last time, runt", Zecker growled.
"Yeah? And why's that? You got some kinda big plan or something"? MagiRed sneered.
"Well...No...but I DO have help"! Zecker said with a smirk, sticking two fingers into his toothy maw.
PHWEET
From the roofs of the other buildings, several shadowed figures appeared. As they leapt down onto the street, they were revealed to be ogres, much like Zecker. They were all dressed in the same outfit as him, but they were a foot smaller than him, and their hair was brown and their skin was red. MagiRed gasped as he was suddenly surrounded by at least 12 of the ogres' cronies.
"Huh, you'd think I would've noticed them back when I was on the roof", MagiRed noted, scratching the side of his helmet.
"Alright boys, you know the drill", Zecker said, cracking his knuckles, "Have your fun and soften him up, but the final blow is mine".
"You got it, Big Z"! They said in unison.
All 12 of them charged forward the red clad wizard. However, before they could even lay a hand on him, MagiRed backflipped out of their reach. Everyone was stunned by the Ruby Wizard's amazing dexterity, including Zecker's men. They were quick to shrug off their surprise and quickly charged him. But MagiRed was unshaken, and the moment he saw the ogres advance towards him, he quickly got into a fighting stance. As soon as the closest ogre got close enough to him, MagiRed quickly dodged his fist and swung his red glove covered fist into the ogre's sternum, causing his much taller and physically superior opponent to double over, clutching his stomach. Following that up with an axe kick to the back of the neck, the first ogre went down like a ton of bricks.
The other ogres were left aghast. Never before had they seen anyone smaller than them in size take down one of their own without breaking so much as a sweat. The Ruby Wizard turned to them as he retook his fighting position. He then motioned to them with his hand as if saying "bring it on". The ogres took that as their cue to resume their attack and quickly attempted to swarm him. They formed around him in a semi-circle, leaving no large gaps between their muscular arms. They kept their distance by 2 feet, giving MagiRed menial elbow room but not enough space to perform another incredible leap, lest he be caught in their grasp.
It was almost as if MagiRed was encircled by a red, beefy, chain-link fence. From the looks of things, escape seemed impossible. Everyone who watched with bated breath as the fear they once shed slowly began to creep back in, while others who knew and/or had witnessed the young wizard's deeds felt otherwise. The man whose wife MagiRed had saved, bit his bottom lip as he watched the ogres surround him.
"Come on, MagiRed, you can do it", he thought.
"Now"! Cried one of the ogres.
They all quickly took a step forward. But as they did, MagiRed quickly made a back turn, moving his head to the side and twisting his torso. Then, after bringing up his back leg, he hopped up and performed a sweeping roundhouse kick, letting out a rousing battle cry as his foot connected with each ogre as he spun around. Half of them were knocked back while the others, who had gotten too close, were knocked down. The ones who were still standing were once again awestruck. They had heard of the Ruby Wizard's skills, but they never thought he'd be able to knock so many of them down.
"Come on, boys! He's just one guy! We still outnumber him"! One ogre said, trying to rejuvenate their fighting spirit.
Those who stood with him replied with a roar of determination and quickly charged MagiRed once more. They were all soon met with a punch, kick, or shoulder throw as MagiRed countered each of their blows with one of his own. The spectators all watched with excitement, while Zecker watched with scorn, as the seemingly diminutive wizard made easy work of the ogres. It took less than 10 minutes before all the ogres were on the ground, groaning in pain, save one. His fists shaking with rage, Zecker growled as MagiRed stood over his fallen cronies.
"Where'd you get these guys, anyway? Was it pledge week at the "Bum Of The Month" club"? MagiRed joked.
Everyone who was watching laughed at MagiRed's quip, while Zecker only snorted angrily.
"Now then, I'll give you one last chance to surrender, Zecker", MagiRed warned, taking his wand from the holster on his side.
"Don't you DARE patronize me! I'm not so weak that I need charity of some punk wannabe hero! You think you can take me down?! Well, HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST SHOT PUNK"! Zecker cried as he charged forward.
"So be it", MagiRed said in a low voice, "Jii Jijiru"!
Grabbing hilt of the pommel, MagiRed slowly pulled on it until it extended into the form of a handle. The shaft extended out to form a blade. MagiRed's wand was now in the shape of a sword. Gripping the hand with both hands, he held it up and began to channel his magic into the blade until it glowed bright red.
"There it is! His signature finishing move"! One of the spectators pointed out.
"Get him, MagiRed"! Another exclaimed.
"Red Fire..."
"I won't lose to you! Zecker yelled, rearing back his fist.
As soon as Zecker was close enough, the Ruby Wizard jumped up towards his opponent with his sword held high over his head.
"SLASH"!
With all his strength, he brought down his flaming sword in a downward arc at the ogre, landing almost two feet behind him. He then converted his sword back into its primary wand form and held up two fingers and his thumb with his free hand.
"Checkmate", he said, placing his wand back into his holster.
SNAP!
FWOOSH!
"AAUUGH"!
Just as MagiRed snapped his fingers, a red vertical line appeared on Zecker's chest which glowed until it caught fire, causing the ogre to cry out in agony. As the flames subsided and the damage from the attack began to sink in, Zecker's knees started to buckle under his weight. And he fell face first onto the ground, filling the air with the echo from the impact. There was a brief moment of silence, before someone, in a fit of joy, finally broke the silence.
"MAGIRED WINS"!
Applause and cheering soon followed as the people who were watching flocked to the Ruby Wizard, showering him with praise as they expressed their gratitude.
"Way to go, MagiRed"!
"I knew you'd beat him, I just knew it"!
"You really showed him, huh boss"?!
Those around town who held him in high regard would often call him that. The reason was because he was practically the big boss in those parts. Things like this were commonplace whenever MagiRed came onto the scene.
Holding his hands up in a show of humility, MagiRed slowly made his way out of the crowd.
"Heh, just another day for yours truly", The Ruby Wizard said humbly.
"MagiRed"!
The wizard in question turned to see the couple he'd saved earlier run up to him.
"I can't thank you enough for saving my beloved wife", the man said, bowing his head, "I'm eternally grateful".
"Now, now, no need for that", MagiRed said with a chuckle, "I'm always more than happy to lend a hand when there's trouble".
"We're glad there's someone like you around to watch over us", the woman said, "If the witches and warlocks of the Emperor's Coven were more like you, I know we'd certainly feel safer".
MagiRed couldn't help but laugh at that.
"I'd be lying if I said I didn't agree with you", MagiRed said frankly, "But despite their faults, they do try their best. All I'm trying to do is pick up the slack".
"Well, we appreciate everything you do and more, sir", the man said warmly.
His wife nodded in agreement. MagiRed replied with a nod of his own before turning his head towards the sky.
"Sky Hoki"!
Upon shouting that, an object raced down from the sky towards MagiRed before slowing down and hovered next to him. It was a jet-like vehicle, with a black, gold, and white color scheme, with a hint of red to indicate the Ruby Wizards claim to it. This was the Sky Hoki, MagiRed's main mode of transportation. The Ruby Wizard then leapt up and mounted his ride.
"You all can always count on me to protect you in times like this", he announced, looking around at those gazing at him, "So long as there's breath in my lungs, I'll continue to fight for the good people of the Isles"!
His declaration was met with cheers and applause. Believing it was time for him to head out, he decided to end things with his credo.
"Long live courage"! He said, giving a two-finger salute.
As everyone else saluted back, he quickly ascended on his Sky Hoki and sped off until he was out of sight. As everyone who was watching began to return to their previous activities from earlier, they couldn't help but feel a sense of relief and inspiration. Although, to be fair, MagiRed had that effect on people. Ever since his debut 4 years ago, MagiRed had worked his way into the hearts of the people of the Boiling Isles with his great deeds and acts of heroism. Even though he was wanted as a vigilante by the Emperor's Coven, the people knew his true nature and that with him around, they could rest easy knowing that there was a protector who they knew that they could count on in times of trouble.
Meanwhile, MagiRed had secretly parked in an alley. After making sure no one was around, a bright red flash of red covered his body. When the light faded away, there in his place stood Ash, who stood there with a satisfied smile stretched across his face. His mental and emotional exhaustion from earlier had now been purged thanks to his victory over Zecker. After going over to the hiding spot where he stashed his things and retrieving them, he walked over to where his Sky Hoki was hovering, which had now transformed back into its "civilian form"; a wicker broom with a mahogany-colored handle and a red ribbon tied in a bow around the base of the bristles.
As he pressed his back against one of the alleys' walls, he listened closely to what the people were saying.
"Man! MagiRed is SO cool"!
"I knew he'd make short work of Zecker"!
"The Ruby Wizard is amazing"!
"I'm sure glad we have someone like him watching out for us"!
"I don't care if he IS wanted by the Emperor, he's a real hero"!
"True that"!
Even though he wasn't in it for the glory or honor, it always felt good to hear others praise Ash for his work as MagiRed.
"Wonder where Rugrid went"?
"Probably turned tail as soon as he saw Zecker! Heh, that street rat always ducks out on the fun"!
"What would you expect from riff raff like him"?
Those comments, in particular, stung worse than any insect bite. Comments like that were the only downside to his moonlighting as a masked hero. Despite all he had done, Ash never got any credit for any of the work, unlike his alter ego, MagiRed. Letting out a long sigh, he walked back down through the alley, and picked up his broom. He frowned sadly as he got on and flew off into the air over the buildings.
After a long, quiet flight, he landed once he reached his destination. In front of him stood a tall, white brick house with a sloping blue roof. Above the front door was a stained-glass window that looked like a demonic eye. To the rear left of it was a partially ruined stone tower with orange moss growing on its' side. This was the Owl House, and for the past 4 years of his life, it was the only home he'd ever known. As he walked up to the door, he was greeted by the face of a barn owl on the front door.
"Hoot Hoot! Password"? It said.
"WHATEVER! IT'S 2009"! Ash comically exclaimed.
"Welcome home, Ash. Did you bring me back something"? Hooty asked eagerly.
"Not this time, Hooty", Ash sighed, "Had a bit of a day. Mind opening up for me"?
"Awww, fine", Hooty said, rather disappointed.
As the door creaked open, Ash slowly trudged through the doorway and into the Owl House. After heading up the stairs, he stopped at a door at the end of the hall. Setting his stuff down, he opened the door to reveal his room. There were a few shelves with different movies and books. On the walls were various posters of Bruce Lee movies and Magitopia Recruitment posters. A half made twin bed sat in the corner with a nightstand shaped like an Easter Island statue next to it. Next to the nightstand was a crystal ball placed atop a black cabinet with a DVD player, along with an N64 and various games inside. Near the door was a dark brown roll top desk with various items on it and on the attached shelf. With a tired sigh, he flipped on the light switch as he entered the room. Setting the box down on the desk, he sat down in the brown desk chair and pulled out the bag full of money that he had earned today. The young wizard then pulled open one of the desk drawers and pulled out a large coffee can filled with coins. He then tilted the bag over the can until the coins started flowing out and kept it going until the bag was half empty.
"That's 70% towards the fund", Ash noted as he reached into the bag and pulled out a handful of coins, "10% for myself".
After placing the coins in a smaller bag, he closed up the larger one and resealed it with the strings.
"And 20% for the house", Ash concluded.
Leaning back in his chair, Ash let out a long sigh. Days like today were always taxing on him, emotionally AND physically. Between the praise for his work as MagiRed and the indignation he felt from being ridiculed in his alter-ego, he was always left confused on how he should truly feel. On one hand, he hated having to put up with the mocking and jeering that almost everyone gave him. On the other hand, he knew that he had to carry on his work, both for the sake of the people and the sake of the once great coven he was so proud of. He looked over at a picture frame on the desk. It showed a medium closeup shot of an older woman in her late 30s to early 40s with light chestnut hair, brown eyes, a warm and comforting smile, and she wore white button-up sweater over a light blue shirt. The lady in the picture was Ash's mother, Riza Rugrid.
"Don't worry, mom", Ash said, looking at the picture with a smile, "No matter how much it sucks, I don't plan on quitting anytime soon".
He then stood up from the chair and began to stretch.
"Well then", he said with a sigh, "Time for the best stress reliever I know".
That so called "stress reliever" was actually another way of saying work out. He was now dressed in a red tank top and black sweatpants with no shoes. Thanks to a little technical jury-rigging and some magic, Ash was able to connect the DVD player to the crystal ball so that now it could act as a projector. It was now projecting one of the Bruce Lee movies onto the wall above the desk. As the movie played, Ash paid close attention to Bruce's movements and began copying them as fast and as accurately as he could. In truth, this was how he was able to learn to fight. Ever since he was introduced to Bruce Lee and other Martial Arts movies when he was younger, he was instantly hooked on the desire to learn the martial arts of the human world like Kung Fu and Jeet Kune Do.
Even though his training was in no way traditional, it was all he had to go on. Thankfully, copying all the movements and implanting them in his muscle memory paid off. Although he didn't consider himself a master martial artist, in the four years he had started this unorthodox style of training, he had since become capable to the point where his fighting skills were good enough to where he didn't need to worry about transforming into MagiRed whenever there was trouble. Sweat ran down his face like rain as he copied every punch, block, and kick he saw Bruce doing in the movie, letting out a soft but audible grunt as he moved. Though his muscles ached and his lungs felt heavy, he persevered, fueled by the dreams and goals placed within his heart and the promises he had made, both to himself and others.
It lasted for two and a half more hours, taking a breather for ten minutes and switching out movies in between, until he was finally spent. After turning off the crystal ball, he sat down on his bed, panting as he wiped his face and neck with a towel. He then reached down, grabbed a water bottle that sat at his feet and took a long swig from it. He heard the door creak and glanced over to see a small canine like creature standing in the doorway. It had dark grey fur with light grey fur on its' chest and the tip of its' tail. It had three fingers (including his thumbs), two toes that looked like white claws, and yellow and pink eyes. Its' most distinguished feature was the buffalo-like skull on his head with a single broken horn. This was King and he was one of the two other people that Ash lived with.
"Hey Ash, if you're finished with your workout or whatever it is, Eda said dinner's ready", he said, motioning out towards the hall.
"Be right there", Ash said, wiping his forehead with the back of his arm.
"Y'know, I wish you'd wait until AFTER dinner to do that", King said, putting his paws on his hips, "You're sweating so much it's gonna leave a stench! I don't wanna have to deal with that while I'm eating".
"Come on, I've had to deal with worse smells coming off of you while I eat", Ash joked.
"That's a lie! I bathe as regularly as the next demon and you know it"! King shouted indignantly, stamping his foot.
"Hahaha, I'm just joking", Ash chuckled, waving his hand, "But if it pleases you, your highness, I'll be down after a quick rinse".
"That's all I ask", King said, regaining his composure before leaving the room.
Ash chuckled as he watched the little demon walk away. He looked over at a red stuffed T-Rex that lay on his pillow at the other end of the bed. He reached over and took it, looking into its' black stuffed eyes.
"I got 'em good, huh Elvis"? He asked it.
He then titled it back and forth as if it were nodding its' head "yes".
Later, after taking a quick shower to wash off the sweat, Ash had changed into some dry clothes and had joined the others at the dinner table. He was now dressed in a grey t-shirt beneath a red pullover hoodie, black sweatpants, and a pair of red and white socks. King was placed in a high chair, digging away at his food. At the other end of the table sat an tall, slender older woman with pale skin and golden eyes. Her hair was long, untamed, and had two tones of gray in it. She had orange claw-like nails and, like Ash, her ears were pointed. Her most distinguishable feature was a single gold fang. An oval shaped jewel was embedded on her chest and wore a ring with a similiarly colored stone. She wore a sleeveless two-tone maroon dress with a ripped hem design and a pair of maroon high-heeled boots over grey leggings. This was Eda Clawthorne, better known around the Isles' as The Owl Lady, the most infamous witch on the Boiling Isles', with a bounty of over one trillion snails. She was also Ash's caretaker and mentor.
As she took another bite from her dinner, she looked over at Ash, who was just pushing at his food with his fork, a blank expression stretched across his face.
"You okay, kiddo"? She asked.
"Hmm"? Ash said, looking up from his food, "Oh yeah, I'm...just a little tired from the long day".
"Right, right", Eda said with a nod.
There was another brief moment of silence until a certain demon spoke up.
"So, ya got the boot again today, huh"? King asked bluntly.
Ash immediately blanched as the memory suddenly came back to him.
"King"! Eda hissed, glaring at the little demon.
"What?! You were beating around the bush! At the rate you were going, he was probably gonna be 18 by the time he told us the truth"! King said defensively.
"I was leading up to it"! Eda said.
"Guys, guys, it's fine", Ash said waving his hands, "It's no big deal. I mean, I'm pretty much used to it by now, y'know"?
Eda sighed as she quickly noticed the brave front that Ash was trying to put up. He may not have been living with them his whole life, but he had been with them long enough for Eda to notice whenever something was bothering him.
"So, how many jobs does that make"? King asked.
"In total, or just this past year"? Ash deadpanned, resting his head on his hand.
"Hmmm...let's go with both", King said after giving it some thought.
"Today makes three, bringing up to a total of 9 jobs", Ash said, sighing as he took a bite from his plate.
"Wow, 9 jobs", King marveled, "How did you even manage that? That's just sad, man".
"King"! Eda said in a wary tone.
"Hey at least I'M trying to contribute and pull my own weight around here! All you do is run around the house all day, trying to get your stuffed animals to invade Titan knows where"! Ash said defensively standing up from his seat.
"You mock me now, but some day you'll regret not joining my army when you had the chance"! King retorted, pointing at Ash from his high chair.
"Alright, that's enough! Both of you"! Eda scolded, looking at King and then Ash.
Ash quickly regained his composure before letting out a long sigh as he sat back down in his chair.
"Sorry", they both mumbled in unison.
Rubbing the bridge of her nose, the Owl Lady cast her gaze back at her young ward.
"Look, Ash, it's not the end of the world", she said in a comforting tone, "People get fired every day"!
"Yeah but do they have a track record as long as mine"? Ash asked bitterly, going back to pushing his food around his plate.
"Sure, I...Okay, maybe not", Eda relented, "But still, you're way too young to be pushing yourself like that".
"It's not like I have any other options, Eda", Ash said, crossing his arms, "I mean, it's not as if I'm gonna be going to school any time soon".
"Well still, you don't need to worry about having to help out in that way", Eda consoled, "And if you're still looking for work, you know you can always help out at the stand full time. You're a better salesman that King, that's for sure".
"Hey"! King exclaimed, offended by the off-putting comment.
"I just don't want you to think I'm...like I'm not...", Ash strained to say.
"Hey, look at me", Eda said firmly.
Ash looked over at to see the older witch giving him a serious yet endearing look.
"If I had thought you weren't good for anything, I never would've taken you in", she said in a firm but reassuring tone.
Her look softened to the point where a smile stretched across her face. Ash couldn't help but smile back as he looked away, feeling some of the weight ease off his shoulders. He glanced back at her, a sincere look in his eyes.
"You guys are the only real family I've got", he said softly, "I won't let any of you down. I promise".
"I know ya won't, kid", Eda replied, "I know".
"Ugh, could you BE anymore sappy"? King groaned, effectively ruining the moment.
"Awwww, shaddup"! Ash and Eda shouted together in a joking tone.
Needless to say, everyone laughed.
After dinner was finished, Eda and King were at the sink. King sat at the countertop, munching on the scraps left over in the bowls and plates before Eda plopped them in the sink.
"Uhhh, Eda? Is it okay if I pass on dish duty tonight"? Ash asked nervously.
"Shirking your chores already? I'd have thought you'd skipped that stage already", Eda joked, running a wet rag against one of the plates.
"I just...I'm just not feeling up for it right now", Ash said hesitantly.
Eda turned her head and saw that Ash was once again looking a bit forlorn.
"You okay"? She asked.
"Yeah, I'm just still a bit drained from the day, is all", Ash said, sticking his hands in his hoodie pockets.
"Well who's gonna put away the clean ones"? King asked, "Can't be me, I did it last night"!
"Hoot Hoot! If Ash is tagging out, I can help with the dishes"! Hooty said, stretching himself in through the kitchen window.
"No no no! Last time you nearly broke my ENTIRE collection of porcelain pots I worked hard to steal from that antique shop"! Eda said firmly.
"Worked hard?! As I remember, you used me as bait to keep the guards busy", Ash said irately, "With that in mind, I'd say I was the one carrying the weight during that little escapade"!
"Those pots were kept in a padlocked drawer", Eda pointed out, "It took a LOT of concentration trying to pick the locks and not set off the alarms".
"Uh-huh, sure", Ash muttered, crossing his arms.
"Well this time'll be different"! Hooty said, getting back into the conversation, "I'll get it right this time! Watch"!
Hooty then stretched over to one of the clean plates on the other side of the sink and picked it up in his beak. He then stretched over to one of the top cupboards and attempted to open it, only to find that he was having more trouble than he thought. Due to the fact that his beak was currently holding the plate, he was having some difficulty grabbing the cupboard's door handle. He kept at it, grunting in an annoyed tone as he kept trying to open the cupboard. Until finally...
SMASH!
The plate slipped out from Hooty's grasp and hit the floor. The large owl shaped head looked over at his audience, who all looked at him with an unimpressed deadpan stare.
"Okay! Okay! So I need more practice! Don't have to rub it in! Sheesh"! Hooty huffed, pulling his head out from the kitchen window.
After Hooty had left, Ash looked over at the new mess on the floor.
"Uh, I can get-".
"No no, it's fine", Eda said, waving him off, "King will get it".
"What?! But I-"! King protested.
Eda gave him a pointed look before the little demon let out an annoyed groan and hopped off the counter to grab the dustpan and dust brush.
"You go do...whatever it is you need to do to feel better", Eda said, looking back at Ash.
"You sure"? Ash asked.
"There'll be PLENTY of work for you to help with tomorrow", Eda said in an assuring tone, "For now, just go and take a load off".
"Thanks Eda", Ash said with a smile.
And with that, Ash left the kitchen. Picking up a dry dishtowel off the counter, Eda wiped her hands dry as she looked over at where Ash once stood. She had a rather pensive and uneasy expression. Meanwhile, King had come back with the dustpan and dust brush.
"You're too easy on that kid sometimes, y'know"? King complained.
"Oh give it a rest, the kid just got fired, in case you forgot", Eda admonished, leaning against the sink.
"Yeah, and he said it wasn't a big deal", King pointed out, "So what're you getting so worked up for"?
"Obviously he's just putting on a front", Eda elaborated, "I know a lie when I hear one".
"Well why didn't he just come out and say so"? King asked curiously.
"You know how he is", Eda said with a sigh, "He'd think he was bothering us, talking about his problems".
"Yeah, that does sound like him", King agreed.
"Must be hard for him though", Eda noted, "He's not even 18 and he's already been fired from almost ten jobs. The fact that he hasn't been completely broken by that alone is a miracle".
"So what do we do"? King asked, emptying the dustpan into the garbage before climbing back up onto the countertop.
"For now, we go back to doing the dishes", Eda answered, handing him a clean plate, "As for Ash, I've already got it covered".
She reached over to the brown staff that was leaning against the wall at the end of the counter. The elder then unscrewed the topmost part of the staff, which was a sort of talisman in the shape of an owl, until it came off and came to life as a real little owl with yellow eyes. This was Owlbert, Eda's Palisman. The little brown owl hooted as he looked up at Eda.
"The kids in another funk, you know what to do", Eda said with a smirk.
The little palisman replied with a nod and hooted as he flew off to find Ash.
The aforementioned young wizard was currently exiting his room, a bottle of Goblin's Sweat, a popular sports drink on the Isles', was tucked under his arm, along with a bag of chips. He had just closed the door when he heard the sound of wings flapping a familiar hooting sound. He turned his head to see Owlbert flying his way.
"Hey buddy", Ash said warmly as Owlbert reached his vicinity and landed on his shoulder.
The little palisman cooed as he nuzzled himself against Ash's cheek.
"So, you wanna join me, huh"? Ash asked with a small chuckle before a somber expression formed on his face, "Well I guess your timing couldn't have been better".
Owlbert looked up at Ash with worried eyes as he slowly went on his way. Despite having company, his frown remained. The events of the day continued to play throughout his mind. His most recent employment termination, though not the first, was still weighing heavily on his mind and heart. The fact that all the people were trash talking him didn't help either. Despite all he had done, Ash never got any credit for any of the work, unlike his alter ego, MagiRed. Little did everyone who ridiculed him know, the very person who was the target of their scorn was the very hero who saved them time and again. As he finally made it to the top of the tower behind the Owl House, his mind continued to linger on the days unsavory moments while he walked across the tower's catwalk. All the while, he did something rather unexpected; he started to sing.
"Riff Raff, Street Rat, I don't BUY that! If only they'd look closer..."
He stopped to look at his reflection in a broken mirror attached to the parapet wall in front of him.
"Would they see a poor boy, no sirree!"
Owlbert hooted as he flew off and landed on the edge. Ash smiled as he opened the chip bag, took one out and offered it to Owlbert, who proceeded to nibble at it. Ash smiled as he scratched the little palisman's head.
"They'd find out, there's so much more, to me".
As Ash finished singing, he climbed up on the parapet and looked up to the sky, pulling his knees close to his chest. Looking out at the star filled view, he couldn't help but dream of all that he wanted to set out to do; become a hero, make a name for himself as a wizard, bring honor back to his families' name, and maybe find a friend. After taking a sip from his drink, he let out a long sigh.
"Just you watch Owlbert", he said, "I'll be a great wizard some day. Then everyone will know that the Rugrids are still people who're worthy of honor".
The little palisman hooted as he flew back onto Ash's shoulder, looking up at the night sky with him. Owlbert as as loyal to him as he was to Eda, and he stayed with him until it was time to head back down and retire.
Spell(s) Used:
Jii Jijiru: Spell that transforms the MagiReds' MagiStick into the his individual weapons
A/N: OK, so Chapter 1 and done! That took a lot longer to write! I didn't think I was gonna get it done in time. Fun fact, Ash's training is based off a scene in one of my favorite movies, Bulletproof Monk. I liked the movie, felt it deserved a tribute.
Song featured: One Jump Ahead (Reprise) from Aladdin. I do not own the song.
Anyway, hope it was worth the wait for those of you still following. Chapter 2 will be up sometime in December. TEASER TIME:
After brief trip to the Human World, Ash ends up crossing paths with a certain human girl, and both their lives will NEVER be the same!
GET EXCITED!