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**Chapter 8: Boxing**
...
Jin hadn't explore this town much, of all the time he is been here. He knew most of the places from memory, but it's different visiting them in person.
So Jin took his old bike out for a ride. The worn pedals clicked into place, and the familiar creak of the rusty chain echoed. As he pedaled through the streets.
The first leg of the journey took him down a street, where storefronts adorned with quaint, colorful awnings. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafted from the local bakery, mingling with the scent of blooming flowers in the flower shop next door.
Turning onto a different direction, Jin encountered rows of charming houses, each with its own unique character. Window boxes filled with different decorations. The gentle hum of lawnmowers and the distant melody of a street musician playing a familiar tune added layers to the bike ride. Life out here in a small town is peaceful.
As Jin approached the outskirts, the scenery transitioned into open fields and meandering lanes. Tall grass swayed in the breeze, the sun, now casting long shadows, painted the landscape with warm hues of amber and gold.
With each passing place he felt more connected to the town that had gave birth to him.
Not far away, a worn-out building stood . Jin cycles in front of the building, realizing it's a boxing gym. Its weathered sign read "Kamogawa Gym."
He was interested so he went inside, after all why build a gym this far away from the town?
As he stepped through the gym's entrance, an unexpected scene unfolded before him. The interior, dimly lit, echoed with the rhythmic sounds of leather striking leather. The scent of sweat lingered in the air.
Rows of heavy bags swung gently, each blow against them resonating like a heartbeat. The muffled shuffle of feet on the mat formed an a dialogue between fighters and the canvas beneath them.
In a corner, a figure worked on a punching bag with focus. The thuds of his punches synchronized with his controlled breathing, creating a aura of discipline that reverberated through the space.
The gym's walls bore witness to the stories etched in the sweat and effort of those who once were here. Tattered posters of legendary boxers adorned the surroundings, their eyes gazing down with an air of approval. Motivational quotes, weathered but resilient, adorned the peeling paint, standing as silent encouragers for every soul that entered.
An old man approached Jin, who was still exploring. "Hey kid. What brings you here?"
The old had short, graying hair and a unique mustache, his face, marked by lines and wrinkles. Despite the passage of time, his eyes reveal a gleam of unwavering spirit and the wisdom earned through years of experience. His physique, though aged, still carried the remnants of a once powerful and formidable build.
"Nah, I was just curious, so came in to look around"
"Well if you don't have any business here, you should leave" The old man says with a strict tone.
"One second, I have a question. How old would someone have to be to join the gym?"
"There isn't really an age requirement, just as long as you're mature enough and have the determination to come here and train every day." He pauses, sizing up Jin, and then continues, "Interested in joining? I can tell you've got a decent body."
"Maybe, not too sure, but I'm definitely interested"
"We could talk more about this inside my office if you want" Jin would've swore he saw money signs appear in the eyes of the man for a second.
"Maybe next time, I was just checking this place out today"
Jin gives a small bow before heading out.
Jin was definitely interested. The sound of learning how to fight sounded appealing. He would have professional help as well, and he works out anyways. So why not do that in a gym, and with a bigger purpose to. Is like hitting multiple stones at once.
Jin paddles back home, his bike stalling once on the way.
Should he join?
