Street Fighter
by Ganon
Chapter 2: It All Comes Together

Ryu was twenty-one years old when Goutetsu died. Ryu and Ken trained for one and one-half years more before Gouken proposed an idea to them. It is early 1987.
"You are both fine young men. You both are strong, and disciplined in your training. Ryu...Ken...I propose that you both participate in the Street Fighter Tournament," said Gouken.
"The Street Fighter Tournament?" asked Ken.
"The Street Fighter Tournament is a fighting tournament held for the first time this year. It is being held by the Emperor of Muay Thai, Sagat. Competitors will travel to five countries to find the champion. The format is best-of-three rounds. The winner will be hailed 'King of the Hill'. I am confident that one of you can win," said Gouken. "I have also been informed that my friend Retsu will be entering the tournament."
"I will begin training right away, sir," said Ryu.
"I'm...not so sure..." said Ken. "I mean, the US Martial Arts Championship is being held this year, and, well, I'd like to participate."
"Are you sure about this, Ken?" asked Gouken.
After a long pause, Ken replied, "...Yes...I am sure..."
And so the two fighters began training. After three more months, Ken took off on a plane back to the United States of America, hoping to win the US Martial Arts Championship.
However, Ryu stayed and trained.

Joe was thinking about what would happen in three months. The Street Fighter Tournament was coming up, and Joe had signed up. He was Champion of the state he lived in, what was he worried about? Joe had entered to test his skills as a practitioner of Kickboxing. Joe believed he needed to assure himself. He smiled.
Whoever he faced was in for some trouble.

Three months later, Ryu took off for the United States of America, to fight his first match in the Street Fighter Tournament.