Chapter 52

The two opponents faced each other for a psychologically infinite time, each seeking in vain to detect flaws in his opponent's guard; soon both understood that they were facing a seasoned fighter, with more technique in the case of Taro, and with more savage impulses on the part of the Honduran.

Bernal knew that he had an important advantage in having the great knife in his hands, that were trained to use it effectively. He also knew that this gave him the initiative for the attack, since the Japanese in front of him had to beware of his dangerous blows that would tear the opponent's flesh. So he just had to wait for the opportunity for his attack and trust his reflexes.