Ribbotsuke’s head was lowered, hands in the position of prayer. His eyes were closed tight with concentration, and the incense burning at the foot of the statue gave a subtle scent of serenity. After a few more minutes of meditation, Ribbotsuke hopped up and did a 180 spin towards the exit.
Just as he was about to leave the shrine, he flicked his arm over to retrieve his swords, which had been laying at rest against the wall. After tucking them back inside of his crimson sash, he got on all fours and started hopping to the village.
He skidded to a halt as he reached the Dojo, the dirt hitting a little tadpole playing in the field outside.
“Sorry!” he called as he ran inside, with his ragged cloak and baggy clothes billowing behind him as he did so.
He stopped at the entrance, bowed, then continued into the main battle hall.

“Almost late again, Ribbotsuke!” scolded Mamoru.

“Yeah whatever, I still have enough time to beat you!”

“Ha! Come on, let’s dance!” replied Mamoru, as both frogs drew their swords.