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Origin[]
The Thumping Mallet is a Uchide-no-Kozuchi, a legendary Japanese hammer, that translates to "Small Magic Hammer" or "Miracle Mallet". It is said that only Kobito (dwarves or tiny people) were the only ones who could wield it. The mallet is said to be very small, and swinging it grants its holder’s wishes. It plays an important role in the legend of Issun-bōshi (or "One-Inch Boy").In the legend, the one-inch tall Issun-boshi, after leaving his parent's home, comes under the employ of a wealthy Emporer, whose daughter is an attractive princess. Although scorned for his height, he is given the job of accompanying the princess. While traveling together, they are attacked by an Oni, who swallows Issun-boshi. He defeats the Oni by pricking him from within with his needle. The Oni spits out Issun-boshi and drops the 'Uchide-no-Kozuchi as he runs away. As a reward for his bravery, the princess uses the power of the mallet to grow him to full size. At the end of the story, Issun-bōshi and princess are married.