Defeat Shinji 17

TAKUMI TSURUGI

Six months had passed since Yumi had started training me, and the improvements were undeniable. My skills had sharpened, and my confidence had grown. Today was the day of the long-awaited combat match between Shinji and I, and the entire school was buzzing with anticipation. Students and mentors filling the arena.

Few minutes later the arena was filled with a charged atmosphere as Rykeru Goro stepped forward to make the announcement. His voice cut through the noise, commanding attention. “Today, we have a highly anticipated match. Takumi Tsurugi versus Shinji Takeru. May the best fighter win.”

With the signal given, the combat began. I faced Shinji with a little nervousness, he always won in every fight and I had to convince myself that I'd win this time around, even though I didn't know how.

We started off and then, our fight became intense, filled with powerful strikes and agile maneuvers. Despite my improved skills, Shinji’s experience and raw strength were formidable. The match was brutal and relentless, with neither of us holding back.

With a final strike, Shinji emerged victorious after sending me off balance and placing his sword against my neck. I glared at him, his strength was still too much for me despite my best efforts. The crowd applauded as he was presented with an award for his triumph. I felt a mix of disappointment and just to make sure I felt better, I made my way towards the exit, my body aching from the clash.

"Stupid," I whispered. Just as I was about to leave the arena, Yumi appeared out of nowhere, stepping directly into my path. Her presence was both surprising.

“You did well out there,” she said, her voice warm. “I’m proud of you.”

I shook my head, not ready to accept praise. “I lost. There’s nothing to be proud of.”

Her eyes softened, but she didn’t press the issue. Instead, she took a fighting stance and said, “Let’s test your reflexes. Try to counter my strikes.”

Before I could fully react, she moved quickly, delivering a series of precise strikes aimed at testing my defenses.

"Yumi!" I shouted as I reacted immediately, my reflexes sharp. I managed to block her attacks and, in one swift motion, caught her arm before she could land a decisive blow.

"Jeez," Yumi’s eyes sparkled with approval as she smiled. “Looks like the training is paying off. We’ll continue to work on your skills.”

She glanced at my outfit and chuckled. “And by the way, you might want to get used to it. It’s becoming your new standard.”

Her comment brought a smile to my face, easing the sting of defeat. Yumi turned to leave, her demeanor relaxed and encouraging.

As I watched her walk away, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. Despite the loss, Yumi’s training had made a significant impact. I knew that I still had a long way to go before I would be able to defeat Shinji. However, I was ready to face my fears with the strength and skills I had developed.

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