Jake slowly opened his eyes, groggy as he tried to shake off the lingering haze. He found himself in a typical bedroom; the modern furnishings and soft lighting were unfamiliar yet comforting.
"Jake, you're finally awake!" Yoko exclaimed, her eyes brimming with tears and filled with guilt over his injuries.
He sat up slowly, rubbing his head to clear his mind. "Where am I?" he mumbled, his thoughts still fuzzy. "The last thing I remember... I was fighting this guy, Takeshi, who was blocking our way to your house..." The fight with Takeshi still felt like a bad dream.
Yoko wiped her eyes and tried to steady her voice. "You're in my father's room," she explained softly. "He came home, saw all of your injuries, and since you and Luna fainted, he called a doctor to examine you both. Thankfully, there are no fractures. He had everyone placed in separate rooms so you could rest properly, which is why you're in his room."
Jake blinked, processing her words. "Uncle Nomura is back? How long have I been sleeping?" He glanced at the window, noticing the soft evening light filtering through the curtains.
"You've been sleeping for an entire day," Yoko answered, still worried. "Are you feeling better?"
"A whole day..." Jake muttered, slightly surprised. The last time he slept that long was after a school baseball camp. His expression quickly shifted as concern took over. "What about the others? Are they alright?" His voice carried a hint of urgency, his thoughts now focused on his friends' well-being.
"My father has gone out to get food for all of you. Luna is still resting in my room; that hit from Takeshi took a toll on her. Akane and Carter are with her," Yoko said softly, her gaze falling to the floor as guilt weighed her down.
"Hey, Yoko, cheer up, okay?" Jake said warmly, trying to lift her spirits. "I'm alright now. Let's go check on the others."
He swung his legs off the bed. Despite the lingering soreness in his body, he managed to stand up, determined to rejoin his friends. Yoko, still looking concerned but heartened by Jake's optimism, nodded and followed him out of the room.
When they arrived at Yoko's room, they found Luna still fast asleep. Carter and Akane brightened upon seeing Jake walk in.
"Jake! You're alright!" Carter exclaimed, relief evident as a broad smile spread across his face.
Akane closed her eyes and put her hands together, whispering a quiet prayer of thanks.
Luna stirred as the touching commotion reached her ears. She slowly opened her eyes and, seeing Jake standing there, sat up abruptly. Without hesitation, she embraced him tightly. "I'm so glad you're okay!" she cried, her voice full of relief.
Jake turned red, unsure how to react. Gently, he patted Luna's head. "Hey, Luna, I'm alright! I'm glad you are too!" he reassured her.
Akane, Carter, and Yoko joined in, forming a group hug. "I'm glad we're all okay!" Carter said, his voice carrying the warmth of the moment.
The heartwarming scene was interrupted by the sound of the front door opening, signaling Yoko's father's return.
"Let's go meet Uncle Nomura—our main mission here, right?" Jake suggested, looking at the group.
They all nodded in agreement and, together, headed out of the bedroom to finally meet him.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/c8/Kenjiro_Nomura_setting_up_a_dining_table_in_a_calm_and_peaceful_setting.png]
The group arrived at the Nomura household dining room, finally meeting Yoko's father, Kenjiro Nomura. He appeared to be in his early 40s, with a sturdy and well-built physique. His short comb-over black hairstyle, paired with a traditional Samurai Ponytail, added a blend of modern and samurai aesthetics to his appearance. He sported an anchor beard, giving him a commanding yet mature presence. Dressed in a red kimono cardigan, symbolizing strength and valor, over a simple shirt that outlined his sturdy build, he paired the outfit with black battle robe pants that struck a perfect balance between elegance and practicality.
Despite his imposing appearance, in the dining room, he looked like any regular father, setting up the table and preparing dinner for his guests.
"Otōsan, you're back!" Yoko exclaimed, her voice filled with relief and joy as she rushed to hug her father.
"What's wrong, my baby girl? I was only out for an hour to get food," Kenjiro said, patting Yoko’s head affectionately. He scanned the room, his sharp eyes falling on Jake, Carter, Akane, and Luna. Seeing they were all fine, he gave a warm smile and addressed them.
"Jake, you've grown up so fast! Are you feeling better?" Kenjiro remarked, his smile deepening as he recognized Jake. It had been years since they last met, and the boy had clearly matured into a young man.
"Uncle Nomura, it's been a while," Jake responded with a respectful nod, his voice carrying a mix of respect and familiarity. "My father sends his regards."
"I hope Fumio and Elizabeth are enjoying their normal life in the U.S.," Kenjiro said, a slight hint of longing in his tone. He then shifted his gaze slightly and added, "Fumio mentioned you're interested in learning more about the seven swords. You've certainly brought an impressive entourage," he said with a smile, nodding toward Carter, Akane, and Luna.
"Otōsan, don’t be rude," Yoko gently chided, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Let me introduce them properly. This is Carter, Luna, and Akane."
The group exchanged polite greetings with Kenjiro, each offering a respectful nod or smile in his direction, feeling the warmth of his presence filling the room.
Finally meeting Kenjiro, Luna's eagerness to get the answers she had been seeking overwhelmed her. She stepped forward anxiously, "Nomura-san, I really want to ask you about the seven swords, I wish to—"
Before Luna could finish, Kenjiro gently raised his hand to stop her. "Yoko has already told me about you being from the future," he said with a smile, completely unfazed by the revelation. It was as though the idea of someone from the future didn't surprise him at all, likely due to the strange and unusual things he'd encountered in his life. "But let's not rush into that now. The food's hot, and I believe none of you have eaten all day. We can talk about everything while we enjoy dinner."
With that, Yoko and Kenjiro ushered the group to the dining table, encouraging everyone to sit together. The warm atmosphere allowed them to relax, as they prepared to share a meal and catch up before delving into the deeper matters at hand.
"So, how are your parents?" Kenjiro asked, his voice carrying a hint of nostalgia. He was intrigued to know more about Jake's family, having not seen them for more than 10 years. "Is your father still crazy about baseball?" he added with a chuckle.
You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.
In fact, Fumio Harada had been Kenjiro's partner in crime back in the day when they were hunting down and challenging the Seven Swords together. What most people didn’t know was that Fumio was also Kenjiro’s brother-in-law, making Jake his nephew and Yoko, Jake’s cousin.
"My dad, yes, is still fanatic about baseball," Jake replied with a smile. "He asked about you and Auntie Nomura, but Yoko informed me she's now staying in Osaka. It's unfortunate we won't get to see her this trip." Jake sighed before reaching into his bag, pulling out a box of chocolates and handing it to Kenjiro. "This is a gift from my parents. I hope you like it."
Kenjiro’s expression shifted slightly, a hint of sadness crossing his face at the mention of Yoko’s mother, his wife. "Thanks, Jake. I hope to see them soon, maybe in the near future if I visit the U.S. with Yoko," he said, accepting the chocolates with gratitude and grace.
Luna, focused on completing her mission to locate the seven legendary swords, couldn't hold back any longer. "Nomura-san, Jake's father said you know the whereabouts of the seven swords. Would you be able to disclose to us where they are?" she asked, her earnestness clear in her voice.
Kenjiro, however, appeared uninterested in entertaining the question. He folded his arms, his body language expressing reluctance. "I believe Jake's father already told you: the person doesn't choose the sword; rather, the sword chooses its master. I don't think your story about an overlord with seven swords is possible. It's best if you forget about it and stop searching," he said firmly, trying to brush her off from continuing the quest.
Luna, feeling defeated, lowered her head. Jake leaned closer and whispered reassuringly, "It's okay, Luna. I'll try to persuade him to help us as it goes," trying to lift her spirits as they continued eating.
Kenjiro, meanwhile, shifted the conversation. "So, what exactly happened these last two days while I was away? Yoko only told me you got into fights but didn’t give me many details." His curiosity was piqued, especially since both Jake and Luna returned unconscious and all of them bore visible injuries.
"Oto-san! It’s nothing! Jake, don’t tell, please!" Yoko interrupted, not wanting her father to worry unnecessarily.
Kenjiro raised a finger to his lips, gesturing for Yoko to stay quiet. "Jake, tell me about it," he said firmly, insisting on knowing what really transpired.
Jake sighed, knowing he had no choice. He began recounting the events that had unfolded at Seiryu High. "Yoko! You mean you were being bullied at school? And you didn’t tell me?" Kenjiro’s voice, a mixture of surprise and anger, reverberated across the room.
Yoko, her head down, muttered softly, "Sorry, Oto-san. I just didn’t want you to worry."
"Silly girl, I would be more worried if you didn’t tell me, and I found out myself. I’m glad you, Jake, and his friends taught this PROUD gang a lesson," Kenjiro said, his tone softening as he praised Jake and the group. "But how did you and Luna end up fainted?" he asked, delving deeper into the events leading up to their return.
Jake continued, explaining the encounter they had on the way back to Yoko’s house, where they were confronted by Takeshi Ono. Kenjiro’s eyes widened at the mention of Takeshi’s name. "And what business does Takeshi have with you all?" he demanded, his tone rising with concern.
Jake explained how they believed Takeshi had come for revenge due to Osamu’s connection to the Yakuza. Kenjiro listened carefully, but his expression turned even graver when Jake explained how they managed to escape. "I didn’t beat him," Jake admitted, his voice growing solemn. "I took out the Sword of Flames, and for some reason, after he saw it, he just left."
Kenjiro’s expression changed instantly. "Fumio gave you the Sword of Flames... and you let him see it?" His voice suddenly took on a tone of urgency and worry. He understood the grave consequences of revealing such a weapon to someone like Takeshi.
Suddenly, Kenjiro stood up abruptly from the dining table, his body coiling into a combat stance as if triggered by some unseen force. "There’s no need to hide anymore. I know you’re here, Hiroshi! They’re just teenagers!" Kenjiro’s booming voice filled the room, sending a wave of unease through everyone.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/4/49/Kenjiro_Nomura%27s_Daish%C5%8D_style_swords.png]
Kenjiro’s Daishō, the paired katana and wakizashi, symbolized his role as a modern samurai and his deep commitment to the bushido code. The katana, with its 27.5-inch blade, offered power and reach, while the shorter wakizashi, at 19.7 inches, allowed for quick, precise strikes. Together, the two swords embodied the perfect balance of offense and defense, reflecting Kenjiro’s mastery in combat.
"Oto-san, what’s going on?" Yoko asked, her voice tinged with worry as the tension thickened in the room.
Jake, Carter, Luna, and Akane instinctively formed a circle, standing back to back, their eyes scanning the room for any sign of the hidden threat that Kenjiro had sensed. The atmosphere grew thick with anticipation and fear as they prepared for the unknown danger lurking in the shadows.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/f/f3/Electro_Shuriken%2C_high-tech%2C_electrically_charged_throwing_star.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/2/2f/Code_of_the_Protector.png]
Suddenly, a buzzing sound cut through the air as Electro Shurikens, each crackling with charged energy, were hurled in their direction. Without hesitation, Kenjiro invoked the Code of the Protector, a defensive technique rooted in his bushido principles. With swift precision, he deflected the shurikens with his katana, ensuring none of the teenagers were harmed. "You can show yourself now, Hiroshi. There's no point in hiding," Kenjiro demanded firmly, his voice resonating through the room with authority, knowing exactly who the assailant was.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/0/0e/Hiroshi_Saito_Profile.png]
From the dark corners of the house, the figure emerged as if woven from the shadows themselves. The teenagers were stunned upon seeing him, his appearance looking like something out of science fiction. Half man, half machine, his human features included white hair and a white beard, but most striking was the cybernetic enhancement covering the left side of his face. A glowing red iris sat within a cybernetic eye, its advanced technology gleaming with cold precision. The mechanical parts integrated seamlessly into his face, suggesting they extended further into his body, amplifying his already formidable presence.
Dressed in a black Shinobi Shozoku, traditional ninja attire, Hiroshi Saito ’s identity as a cybernetic ninja was undeniable. Though Kenjiro referred to him by his first name, Hiroshi was no ordinary opponent. His full name, Hiroshi Saito, carried weight, as he was part of the Yakuza gang that Takeshi belonged to.
Hiroshi wasn’t alone. A group of ninjas, cloaked in shadows, stepped forward, surrounding Kenjiro and the teenagers, their presence thickening the tension in the room as a confrontation loomed. "You know what I came for, Kenjiro! Hand it over, and I’ll let the teenagers go!" Hiroshi’s voice was low and threatening, his intent clear as he tried to coerce Kenjiro into compliance.
"Never!" Kenjiro responded firmly, his stance unwavering. There would be no negotiation. He was ready to retaliate against the intruders who dared to disturb the peace of his home.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/4/43/Plasma_Saber.png]
"In that case, you leave me no choice!" Hiroshi growled, reaching into his black Shinobi Shozoku and drawing out his weapon. His plasma saber, a futuristic blend of traditional swordsmanship and advanced technology, emitted a bright blue glow that contrasted sharply against his dark, stealthy attire. The blade, measuring about 3.3 feet, hummed with energy, its glow illuminating Hiroshi’s cybernetic enhancements. This weapon represented Hiroshi’s ability to adapt and merge the old ways of the ninja with modern cybernetic advancements, making him a dangerous foe.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/3/38/Hiroshi_Saito_equipped_with_his_blue_plasma_saber_has_been_created%2C_capturing_his_dynamic_combat_stance.png]
In a ready stance, Hiroshi prepared to strike, his plasma saber humming with power. Surrounding him, his foot ninjas mirrored his readiness, their eyes locked on Kenjiro and the teenagers. The cybernetic ninja leader's signal could come at any moment.
Kenjiro and the group of teenagers stood their ground, prepared to defend themselves against the impending assault. The room was thick with anticipation, the clash between old traditions and cutting-edge technology about to erupt into chaos.