The warrior kneels in front of his armor and clears his mind. He remains silent as he dons the protective bogu over his gi and hakama, then reaches for his sword.

He turns to his opponent and assumes a fighting stance, eyes locked on his foe. Without saying a word his gaze expresses respect for his fellow combatant. The tension builds as the two fighters square off in silence.

Then, with the simultaneous scream of "Kiai," stomp of the foot and strike of the shinai, the warrior breaks the peace.

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