Ed sighed heavily, eyes scanning the cluttered expanse. "I wonder where he is," he murmured, glancing at his wife. Edna nodded, her hands wringing nervously. "The news said he crashed into a police car! What if he's hurt?" she fretted. Just then, two figures emerged from the shadows, one unmistakably their son, Jay, still in his blue flight suit.

Edna enveloped Jay in a tight hug, tears brimming in her eyes. "Oh, my boy! You’re okay! Did they feed you? Did you get enough vegetables?" she asked, her voice a mixture of relief and scolding. Jay chuckled softly, trying to pry away from her embrace. "Mom, I'm fine!" he assured, gesturing towards the older man beside him.

Jay introduced the man with a respectful nod. "This is Wu. He's a sensei, and he wants me to become a ninja," he explained, excitement and disbelief mingling in his voice. Wu inclined his head slightly, his eyes twinkling with kindness. "Your son has great potential," he affirmed, his voice as steady as the earth.

Edna watched Jay with a mixture of pride and apprehension. "I just hope you pack enough underwear!" she called after him, her voice teasing yet sincere. Jay groaned, rolling his eyes as he rummaged through his belongings. "Mom, not in front of the sensei!" he complained, though his smile belied his embarrassment.

Ed placed a reassuring hand on Jay's shoulder. "We're proud of you, son. Go make us even prouder," he said, his voice filled with emotion. Jay nodded, his heart swelling with determination. "I will, Dad. I promise," he vowed, turning to join Wu at the edge of the yard.

Jay glanced back one last time, seeing his parents silhouetted against the backdrop of their home. Wu walked beside him, a silent guide into the unknown. "The path of a ninja is not easy, but it is rewarding," he said, his voice a steady anchor. Jay nodded, his resolve firm. "I'm ready, Sensei," he replied, stepping forward into his destiny.