The defense was a little weak, but the quickness of the attack was enough to make up for it. As Soubi's hand shot out, Mori twisted his upper body to avoid it. Or he would have, if Soubi hadn't quit halfway. That was no good. Any attack had to be given wholeheartedly or it was as good as dropping one's guard, leaving the body open to attack.

Taking Soubi's wrist in one hand, Mori gently pulled on it to extend Soubi's arm all the way, as if he'd finished the punch. Then Mori went through the motions of countering, bringing his forearm up inside, pushing out against Soubi's arm to block. He did it all slowly as usual and then stopped, looking at the other man. Mori reached out and took Soubi's other arm, bringing it up in a more solid block of his left side, holding his arm firmly for a moment to show him where to place it for a proper defense. "Strong defense is the best offense. He won't pull his punches - don't pull yours."