.5th Strike. [Videopost]

[mean_left_hook]

[Darkness as the communicators camera turns on accidentally, and then bright light for a moment. The audio is grainy, the language is Japanese.]

D-Dammit.

[A lanky form slowly pulls itself up from the ground, heavily backlit by the sun. A stream of dark fluid pours from the figures face to the pavement before a hand is held over mouth and nose. The

Comments

[lolplottwist]

So, you're still breathing.

I'd wondered.

[mean_left_hook]

Of course I am.

You may have broken my nose, but I'm nowhere near dead.

[lolplottwist]

I didn't think it would kill you... If it did, I'd be disappointed.

I just didn't know what would happen to you, since I had to leave you there all alone...

[mean_left_hook]

I was KO'ed, no doubt about it.

I'm not sure how long I was out, but nothing got to me. My safety isn't your responsibility, don't worry about it.

[lolplottwist]

I didn't doubt it - I'm the one who knocked you out.

Hopefully, you're convinced now.

[mean_left_hook]

You're stronger than me, and faster. You proved it.

[lolplottwist]

Good.

Then I guess you know for sure now, there is someone out there stronger than you.

[mean_left_hook]

I do, and I'm glad I know.

You can only learn so much by winning, sometimes you have to lose to see where your weaknesses and faults lie.

As soon as I'm back on my feet, I want to spar again.

[lolplottwist]

I'd hate to break your pretty face again. <3

[mean_left_hook]

I'm a boxer, not a model. I'm more interested in improving my skills than keeping my nose straight.

[lolplottwist]

I guess you're not perceptive enough to know the benefit of appearance...

In other words, no. What are you trying to prove?

[mean_left_hook]

I don't want my looks to be the reason I get places in life. I feel more accomplished when I get what I want by working hard.

I'm not trying to prove anything. We both know who's the better fighter. Now I just want to know the how and why.

[lolplottwist]

Don't underestimate what a pretty face can get you.

How? Probably because I've trained more than you could ever hope to. Why? It's not important.

[mean_left_hook]

I don't think I'm anything special to look at, really. I doubt I'm missing out on much.

I've trained a lot in the past couple of years. Boxing is my life. I admire your strength and skill, you're a great fighter.

I don't know what I could offer you in turn, but if you would train me.. I know I wouldn't disappoint.

[lolplottwist]

Keep breaking your nose, and it won't get any better.

You don't have anything I want - I don't train people, especially not for free.

[mean_left_hook]

I'm not expecting you to train me for free.

I haven't been here long, but I'm sure I could find some way to pay you for your time and effort.