Fabula
Object
Object

Anbo-Jyutsu Ring (Matta Ring)

A low-profile, fourteen-foot-diameter circular combat ring set into the Enterprise gym floor (also referred to as the Matta Ring). The surface is padded or taped, shows scuff marks and sweat from repeated practice, and has a faint boundary line so footing and balance matter—stepping beyond concedes space and advantage. Used for blindfolded anbo-jyutsu/Matta duels, the ring concentrates close exchanges of technique and emotion between combatants.
3 appearances

Purpose

To designate the perimeter or agreed site for an anbo-jyutsu duel—a ritual challenge marker that defines where and when a formal contest occurs.

Significance

Acts as the catalyst that converts private provocation into an institutionalized, ceremonial duel. The ring turns simmering family grievance into ritualized conflict, raises emotional stakes, compels a public resolution, and propels Riker toward choices that affect reconciliation and career trajectory.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

3 moments
S2E14 · The Icarus Factor
Civility Unmasked

The anbo-jyutsu ring is invoked as the cultural/ritual instrument that can translate verbal grievance into formalized combat. Though not physically present in the quarters, its mention weaponizes tradition, providing a socially legible method for resolving father-son pride.

Before: Absent from the quarters but active as an invoked ritual concept.
After: Activated as a planned future locus of contest (Riker names Deck Twelve gymnasium as the ring's location), converting rhetorical provocation into a scheduled physical duel.
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S2E14 · The Icarus Factor
Anbo-Jyutsu Ultimatum

The anbo-jyutsu ring is invoked by Kyle as a taunt and by implication as a ritual that can resolve grievance; Riker accepts the symbolic instrument by naming Deck Twelve as the site—thereby binding their dispute to formal combat etiquette.

Before: Not physically present in the quarters; exists as a conceptual/ritual object referenced by Kyle.
After: Conceptually 'placed' on the table—Riker authorizes its use by specifying the gymnasium, turning the ring from absence into an agreed arena.
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S2E14 · The Icarus Factor
Ultimatum and Duel Declared

The anbo-jyutsu ring is invoked as an object of ritual combat; Kyle uses it as an implied threat and ritual language to shame Will. Though no physical ring is present, the reference supplies a formalized structure for their conflict and propels Riker to name an actual battleground.

Before: Unpresent and abstract: a referenced ritual with no physical presence in the quarters.
After: Activated as a concept: its ritual authority is transferred to Deck Twelve's gymnasium when Riker accepts the duel.
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