chapter 27:battle with Yujiro

The crowd fell silent as Riku and Yujiro squared off. Riku felt the weight of the moment, but he remembered Retsu's teachings. He focused on his breathing, channeling the energy of the Baki universe.

The referee signaled the start of the match, and Yujiro charged at Riku with incredible speed. Riku barely had time to react, dodging to the side as Yujiro's fist whistled past him.

"Impressive reflexes," Yujiro remarked, a smirk on his face. "But you'll need more than that to keep up with me!"

Riku quickly regained his footing, his heart pounding. "I won't back down!" he shouted, launching himself at Yujiro with a series of rapid punches. He aimed for Yujiro's midsection, hoping to catch him off guard.

Yujiro effortlessly blocked the first few strikes, his movements fluid and precise. "You're fast, but your technique is lacking," he taunted, countering with a powerful jab that caught Riku in the ribs. The impact knocked the wind out of him, and he staggered back.

"Focus, Riku!" Jack shouted from the sidelines. "Use your instincts!"

Riku took a deep breath, recalling the Baki Style techniques he had practiced. He shifted his stance, adopting a more defensive posture. "I need to anticipate his moves," he thought, watching Yujiro closely.

Yujiro charged again, this time throwing a series of rapid punches. Riku ducked and weaved, narrowly avoiding the blows. He could feel the power behind each strike, and he knew he had to be careful.

"Not bad, kid!" Yujiro said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "But you're still too predictable!"

Riku gritted his teeth, determination flooding his veins. He remembered Retsu's advice about reading his opponent's body language. As Yujiro lunged forward, Riku feigned a retreat, baiting him into overcommitting.

"Now!" Riku shouted, pivoting on his heel and launching a powerful kick aimed at Yujiro's side. The kick connected, and Yujiro grunted in surprise, momentarily thrown off balance.

"Good move!" Jack cheered, his voice cutting through the tension. "Keep it up!"

Riku seized the opportunity, following up with a flurry of punches. He felt the energy of the Baki universe surging through him, enhancing his speed and power. Each strike landed with precision, and he could see the surprise in Yujiro's eyes.