The sun had barely risen over the horizon, casting an eerie glow on the castle-like ruins that stood as a testament to battles long past. Ryuichi moved with purpose, his every step echoing in the desolate halls as he searched for something—something vital that could turn the tide of the ongoing war.

The air was thick with tension as he approached the heart of the castle. There, in the dim light, a familiar figure emerged from the shadows: Kenshiro. His presence was both a challenge and a reminder of the bond they once shared.

For a moment, they stood silently, taking in each other's transformed appearances. The years had hardened both men, but the determination in their eyes remained unchanged.

Without warning, their katanas clashed, the sound reverberating through the empty halls. They moved with a speed and agility that spoke of countless battles fought and won, each strike a testament to their unparalleled skill.

Kenshiro's voice cut through the clamour of their duel, filled with a mix of anger and frustration. "You are still very annoying, RYUICHIIII!!!" he shouted, his eyes blazing with intensity.

Ryuichi responded with equal fervour, his voice steady and unwavering. "So are you, Kenshiroo!!!" He parried a fierce strike and added, "Get out of my way!"

Kenshiro's lips curled into a grim smile. "I'm going to stop you right here and now," he declared, his resolve evident. Ryuichi smirked, his voice tinged with challenge. "I'd love to see you try, Kenshiro!!"

With a determined sigh, Ryuichi took a deep breath and called upon his inner strength… "DRAGON'S RAGE!" he roared, raising his katana high. Mystic flames curled up the blade, imbuing it with an otherworldly power. With a powerful forward slash, he unleashed a torrent of flames that spiralled out like a whirlpool.

Kenshiro met the attack head-on, his voice filled with exasperation and defiance. "You never learn, huh, Ryuichi?" He blocked the fiery onslaught, standing his ground against the overwhelming force.

In the final moment of their clash, they stood face to face, their swords locked together. Their eyes met, each reflecting the other's determination and the weight of their shared past. The battle between them was far from over, but for now, they were equals, bound by a destiny neither could escape.