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Ryang's abrupt shift in attack clearly disrupts Shotaro's plan of action. In what appears to be an act forced by indecision, Shotaro spins slightly and kicks Ryang's arm as the sword draws near. Most men would have moved aside and let the sliding attack fall into nothingness. Ryang expected that. Not this. His tachi comes free from his grasp and clatters across the courtyard, clanging into the wall. Laying on his back beneath his opponent, totally disarmed with a gimpy arm, Ryang can't help but let out a short stream of profanities as he attempts to get back onto his feet.
Before he has time to react his opponent unleashes a quick punch that lands on Ryang's injured shoulder, causing him to scream out from the pain. He hadn't expected things to happen like this. Unarmed against an expert in hand-to-hand combat. Ryang dodges the next flurry of blows sent his way but knows this cannot last. His weakness is too easy to exploit. He has to change the conditions of the battle. He has to withdraw.
Ryang begins to walk backwards, still frantically avoiding the karate attacks presented by his opponent. Slowly they make their way toward the west wall, where Ryang can escape into the common area. Ryang prepares to trip Shotaro in order to escape; however, his opponent trips on a rather large, smooth, polished stone instead. Ryang capitalizes instantly, retreating into the first common room. Moments later he hears footsteps approaching and knows he needs to think fast.
His eyes scan the room, searching for something that could be useful. An idea forms quickly in his mind, and he wastes no time putting it into action. Gritting his teeth against the pain he tears a tapestry free from the wall and tosses it over to where Shotaro should be appearing any moment now, hoping to obscure his view and distract him long enough to strike. Grabbing a vase from a pedestal in the room, he swings with all his might at Shotaro's skull in an attempt to render his foe unconcious.
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