Bryan's Challenge
The following day, I knew that the inevitable confrontation was coming. Rumors about me as the new student had spread quickly, especially after my encounter with Ashe. I didn’t know why, but being known in this school seemed like a curse a sort of invitation for those looking for a fight.
As I walked through the hallway towards the classroom, I could hear the whispers of students. Some were saying that I was supposedly skilled in martial arts, while others were eager to see if I could really back up the talk or if it was all just words.
When I entered the classroom, I could immediately sense that something was off. It was quiet, as if everyone was waiting for something to happen. As I stepped in, I saw Bryan standing at the front of the classroom, seemingly waiting for me.
“Jayden,” he called, smiling. His tone exuded confidence, as if he was already sure of his dominance over whatever was about to happen. “I’ve heard you’re good at martial arts. But no one’s seen if you can really fight for what you claim.”
I didn’t say a word. I just stood at the door, not breaking eye contact with him. I could feel the tension in the room the eyes of every student were on us, waiting for the inevitable showdown.
“They say your style is Jeet Kune Do,” he said, walking closer. “But what is that, really? I haven’t had a chance to test it. Maybe you’d like to show me now.”
The tension in the room thickened. All eyes were on us, like serpents waiting for action. I remembered what Ashe had told me about surviving in this school hiding and avoiding confrontation wasn’t enough. If I wanted to live peacefully here, I’d have to prove myself.
“You’re right,” I responded, keeping my eyes fixed on Bryan. “I haven’t fought here yet. But if you want to see, I’m ready to show you.”
Bryan smiled, seeming to enjoy my answer. “Good. In the gym. Don’t think twice about it.”
I grabbed my bag and followed Bryan. The other students hurried after us, as if they were preparing for a big fight. I could feel the adrenaline surging through me, but I forced myself to stay calm. In Jeet Kune Do, action isn’t rushed. You need discipline and the right timing before you strike.
When we arrived at the gym, I wasn’t surprised to see that it was almost packed with students. The excitement on their faces was evident, as if they were expecting a show. Bryan was already standing in the center of the ring, waiting for me.
“Are you ready, Jayden?” he asked, dropping his bag. He stretched, clearly used to his large, heavy frame.
I climbed into the ring without wasting time. I had no intention of dragging this out. I knew Bryan was skilled an orthodox boxer known throughout the school for his strength and speed. But I also knew that my advantage lay in the flexibility of Jeet Kune Do.
Bryan started the fight with a quick attack. A strong punch came flying at me a straight punch packed with full force. Bam!! I heard the sound of the air being sliced by his fist as it passed by my side. I quickly dodged, retreating swiftly, measuring the distance.
He was fast, but I knew he wasn’t using his full strength yet. He was focused, clearly studying my movements too. But I wasn’t going to let myself be taken easily. In Jeet Kune Do, the principle is simple and direct no wasted motion, nothing excessive, nothing lacking.
Bryan followed up with a fast combo of left and right punches. Bam! Bam! The sound of his fists echoed through the air, but I dodged quickly, moving like a wave in the sea. I could see that he was trying to land a hit with his powerful strikes, but my defense was in my speed and flexibility.
I saw an opening in his defense and didn’t hesitate. I quickly struck, delivering a swift kick directly to his side. Thud! I heard the impact of my foot against his body. He staggered back a little, but it wasn’t enough to bring him down.
He smiled, seeming to enjoy the fight. “You’re good, Jayden. But that’s not enough.” 
Bryan attacked again, this time faster and more aggressive. A punch landed on my left arm. Thud! I felt the weight of his fist, but I didn’t falter. His attacks were full of force, but I could tell he was getting excited. With each punch, I could feel his confidence in his strength growing.
I saw another opportunity. As his fist lowered from a missed punch, I spun and unleashed a roundhouse kick. Bam! It landed on his shoulder, enough to make him stagger.
He stepped back but quickly regained his position, seemingly even more determined. “You won’t take me down that easily, Jayden.” 
I took a deep breath. I knew this fight wouldn’t be easy, but I also couldn’t back down. I had to show that I could stand up to people like Bryan, especially to Hanma. I knew this was just the first step towards the bigger battles to come.
I looked at him, my breathing steady. “We’re not done yet, Bryan.”