The referee steps in to separate them, but Ryoma holds on a moment longer than necessary, using the brief pause to gather his thoughts.
He managed to equalize the exchange through nothing but quick thinking. But one thing has become painfully clear.
His Vision Grid has not only lost its usefulness, but has also become a liability. The prediction it offers now carries the risk of leading him into danger.
"What's wrong, kid?" Cabello scoffs. "How long are you gonna hug me?"
The referee pats Ryoma's arm more firmly. "Break, Ryoma. Let him go."
Ryoma finally releases the clinch and takes a step back.
As soon as the referee signals them to continue, Cabello slips right back into the same unusual stance, offering openings almost everywhere.
His upper body sways subtly from side to side, sometimes drifting forward and back without any clear rhythm.
Every now and then, he casually pushes his head a little farther forward, only to dip it away despite no punch coming from Ryoma.
