"I guess I'm mastering the art of starting over... New beginnings can be lonely. Thank God I got me to hold me."

~The Art of Starting Over by Demi Lovato~

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A/N: I edited this while high so who knows what I'll wake up to tomorrow idk.

Warnings: abuse, addiction, anxiety, biphobia/homophobia, depression, domestic violence, gun violence, language, panic attacks, sexual harassment/assault/abuse, violence, weapons, and other mature themes

⭒⭒⭒

Zion's POV

"You want to do what?" Liv sits across from me at lunch with Jai and Eva.

I'm finally getting the chance to work things out with them. Well, as long as they listen. I apologized, and they forgave me and vice versa. Now it's my turn to talk more.

"Practice gymnastics or some shit. You don't need more karate," Jai frowns.

"I hate how I left it, how everything went down. I lost the tournament, lost sight of myself-"

"And you think channeling the karate gods again is going to save you?" they ponder.

"No, I just think that maybe it's a way to prove to Silver and Kreese that-"

"You don't need to prove anything to those pasty, old, wrinkled white dudes," Jai says.

I narrow my eyes at them in frustration, "Silver thinks Cobra Kai can take over The Valley easily. He's already expanding. Kids all over are getting hurt because of Silver. Or, they're turning into bullies. I can't sit by and watch this happen. So, yeah, I'd like you to tell me that this isn't some insane idea-"

"This is some insane idea, Zion," Eva shakes her head.

Liv nods, "If you don't learn from the universe, it's going to come back and remind you again and again until you listen."

"I have to take a stand. I want to show people that they can't break me. Shawn included. This isn't just for me," I argue.

"But, shouldn't your health factor into this a little bit?" Eva frowns.

"My bruises are almost fully gone, I'm seeing a therapist, I'm eating right, I've been working out. Karate is something I really love. I'm finding it again in a new way with Daniel. I want to be excited by it again, but that can't happen if Silver is monopolizing it."

"I understand, but what about when you go back into a dojo and have those panic attacks again?" Liv asks in concern. "I hate seeing you like that. I don't want you to go back to-"

"I won't let myself go back to that. Neither will the people that care about me," I state. I look at the trio, "Right?"

"Right," Liv takes my hand.

"We'll help the right way this time," Jai assures me. "We're proud of you."

Eva looks at me skeptically, "I still think this is a bad idea, but I'll support you. Just know when to stop." I nod in understanding. 

Liv grins brightly, "I've missed this."

"So, when do you join?" Jai asks.

"Tomorrow."

⭒⭒⭒

Tory's POV

"The world is made up of two kinds of people: leaders and followers," Sensei Silver tells us as we stand at attention for our next lesson. "Cobra Kai, like a military unit, needs both to function successfully. So... we're gonna divide you up into pairs."

"The goal of each pair is to score a point against an opponent who outmatches you. Only strong leadership will allow you to prevail," Sensei Kim tells us. 

I look at Piper wearily. I still can't look at Devon.

"Sensei Kim will take the girls. The boys will stay here and spar with Sensei Odell. All right. Split up," Sensei Silver tells us.

We move to our spots as Devon speaks up, "With all due respect, Sensei Silver, shouldn't we mix all genders like we did for the All Valley? Separating boys from girls when there may be gender non-conforming students is not only exclusive but also hindering to our learning."

I look at her in surprise with the others. I see the girls nodding in agreement; I keep my opinion silent. I hope maybe Silver will listen.

"While that may be true," Sensei Silver acknowledges her as everyone stares at Devon either agreeing or disagreeing, "this new era of Cobra Kai is committed to being stronger than ever. By keeping a traitor's ideals in our midsts we may become weaker."

I try not to flinch at the mention of Z as a "traitor" when Sensei Kim adds, "Miss Lee, please proceed with me."

I look at Devon and the other girls as we split off as told. I feel like a mindless sheep.

I was the All Valley champion against everyone, but I can't rock the boat even if I agree because I'm supposed to stay undercover. 

I sigh in frustration as the fem-presenting people stand on one side opposite of the males.

⭒⭒⭒

Zion's POV

Anthony opens the front door for me, "Hey, Zion, what're you doing here?"

I smile when I see him, "Sam told me to come over and see Aisha."

"Right. Well, they're upstairs, so..." He swings the door wider and allows me to step through.

I watch as he walks to the other staircase. I notice that he walks funny.

"Anthony?" I call after him.

He turns around, "Yeah?"

"What happened to your leg?" I observe.

He evades my gaze, "Oh, um, you know... I fell?"

I shake my head, "It was Kenny, wasn't it?"

"Eh, well," Anthony avoids telling me for certain, "you know how clumsy I can be and how-"

"I'm sorry," I tell him honestly.

"It wasn't you," he tells me. "It had nothing to do with you. I should be man enough to handle it on my own, you know? And, I am. Or, I will be. Just... please don't tell my parents. They have enough going on."

I nod in understanding, "I won't say anything."

"Thanks."

"Sure. Just... keep training," I tell him.

"I try," Anthony shifts nervously.

We stare at each other for a moment before he walks away. I turn to go up the stairs, trying to put Kenny at the back of my mind for later. 

I walk towards Sam's room excited to see Aisha. It's weird being back in this house after everything. I still feel like I don't quite deserve the LaRusso's kindness. I'm eternally grateful, though.

And, once I see Aisha, I'll go see Daniel and tell him my decision. I want him to be the second to know.

I peek around the corner for them. Sam smiles brightly as Aisha stands up from Sam's desk chair and rushes over for a hug.

I tense a little at the extreme contact, but relax when I remember it's only Aisha. I smile a little as I squeeze her back.

"You look great," she pulls out of the hug. "I like your short hair."

It really has been a while; this isn't even the shortest it's been. "You do, too. I've missed you."

"I've missed all of you guys. It's been pretty lackluster on my own," Aisha admits. 

"I'm glad you came back," I tell her.

"I'll second that," Sam sits down on her bed. 

Aisha takes a seat in the chair again as I sit next to Sam on the bed.

"It was weird moving away. My dad got a new job, I got away from karate, and something just didn't feel right. So, I found a Topanga Karate dojo in my area and applied for the All Valley. I was there until the new Cobra Kai took over," she frowns.

I look down, "I'm just glad you had enough sense to leave."

"I was the only one," Aisha explains. "That's why I argued with my parents for a chance to come back to Sensei Lawrence's dojo. I figured I'd have a chance there of undoing the wrong Terry Silver is doing."

"That's what we're all hoping for," Sam nods as she looks at me.

I look at her. She knows something. I question, "Did you talk to Miguel?"

She presses her lips together, "About what?" 

I give her knowing look, "You know."

"Know what?" she plays dumb.

"What am I missing?" Aisha joins in.

"Okay," Sam smiles, "Miguel told me."

"Told you what?" Aisha asks.

"I knew it," I sigh. I'm not mad, though. The truth is coming out soon.

"Knew what?" Aisha scoots the chair closer and yanks on Sam's arm.

"I'm joining Miyagi-Fang, too," I tell her. The words still feel unreal.

"You are?" her eyes go wide.

"She is," Sam says supportively as she takes my hand. 

"I heard you had a pretty rough time this summer: losing to Cobra Kai, Mexico, another breakup, drinking-"

"I'm trying to put my past behind me," I interrupt her. "I want to be better. I mean, you remember how vicious we were at Cobra Kai." Aisha nods. "And, you weren't even there for the worst of it. I got in too deep. And, now, I'm trying to get out."

Sam just listens. Aisha continues, "So, Sensei Lawrence left and Sensei Kreese stepped back in after the school fight?"

I nod, "He was good at finding my weaknesses and exploiting them. Almost as good as Silver. It made me never want to leave."

"Why did you?" Sam wonders. I look at her, startled. "You never told me."

I look away in shame, "I don't like to talk about it."

Aisha pries, "Maybe it's something we can use to show the other students that Cobra Kai isn't everything they think. Was it a training technique or something some other student did or-"

"No," I whisper. "It wasn't anything like that. It's something I don't wish on anyone."

"It wasn't the...?" Sam lowers her voice.

"No. It wasn't that." My breathing hitches as I think about all the demons I have. I don't know if I have enough time to work through all of them in therapy.

"I'm sorry for bringing it up," Sam immediately apologizes.

The ceiling is white. Sam's walls are blue. Aisha's shirt is green. I want my rainbow sensory slug. I want it so badly. I need it. 

"Well, I saw Tory once when Cobra Kai took over Topanga Karate. She barely looked my way," Aisha changes the subject.

My heart sinks at the mention of Tory. I wish I could do more to convince her.

"I didn't know what to say. I felt awkward because I wanted things to be like they were when we were on the same team," she glances at Sam, "and maybe a little bit better, too. I wish this stuff were resolved. It's interesting to see Cobra Kai as the bad guys after being inside there for so long."

"Well, I'm glad you're staying at a distance, if I'm honest," Sam tells her. 

"I don't even know her anymore," Aisha frowns. "I overheard the guys at the dojo say she has a girlfriend?"

"Piper," I nod knowingly.

"I had a feeling she was queer, but we never talked about it," she continues.

I hold my tongue as I remember that I was probably the first to know since we hooked up that one night. Now feels like a really bad time to bring that up. 

"It's just weird, and I hate to say it like I'm homophobic," Sam begins and I wince in advance, "but where did this come from? She was ready to kill me over Miguel."

"She was probably more confused than you are," I reply. "It's a hard thing to come to terms with, especially in a heteronormative world. Maybe she was scared to even admit it."

"Tory? Scared?" Sam jokes. I give her a serious look, and she frowns. 

"I was scared. Jess was the only one at the time who made me feel normal about it. They were out before I was. Their moms are married. And, well, you'd think in California everything is easier. But, no, the homophobia is still there. I didn't know how my parents would react. I didn't even get to be the one to tell them because two of my fake friends outed me before I had the chance to come to terms with everything. It's a scary time," I admit. I curl my legs into my chest, suddenly very vulnerable. 

I've processed this and lived through it and am comfortable in my sexuality now, but it's still something that matters deeply and it was a formative moment. I have so much to work through.

"I had no clue," Sam says with guilt in her voice. "I'm sorry."

"It's not like one day you wake up and become gay. It was something inside of me for a while," Aisha speaks up.

I look at her in surprise. I question for just a moment about how she's gay, but then I remember this is Aisha and it makes so much sense.

"I'm demiromantic and asexual," Aisha fills me in. "It's hard to come to terms with. I didn't realize for a while that I wasn't attracted to anyone sexually. I was just scared because I knew I wasn't 'normal.'"

"Whatever that means," I mutter.

"And, Cobra Kai teaches someone how to channel their rage. I didn't know there was another form until I joined Topanga Karate. Tory probably channeled a lot of compulsive heterosexuality into her actions or something. And, we may never know what happened exactly, but she was mad at you for other things," Aisha responds to Sam.

"Tory and I are alike because we carry a lot of anger," I explain.

"And, rightfully so when your home is unstable," Aisha supports.

Sam catches on, "Wait, Tory's home is unstable?"

I look at Aisha worriedly. This isn't something Sam should know.

"Um..." Aisha hesitates.

"Why do you think she's had to work so much? At the skating rink, the restaurant, the princess parties? She doesn't have the money you do," I tell Sam as I try to still be respectful. I just want her to understand. I will always defend Tory, even if she hates me.

"We're out of touch with people who aren't guaranteed food every day," Aisha explains. 

"Yeah," Sam sighs in realization. "I feel that way a lot." She looks at me. "Especially when I talk to Miguel. I sometimes forget how lucky I am, and then I feel like shit."

"At least you realize," Aisha smiles. "I was worried we'd lost you when I heard you'd started hanging out with Yasmine and Moon again."

Sam shakes her head, "They aren't that bad."

"They're pretty bad," Aisha says as the lightheartedness in her voice diminishes. 

"Moon is great," I interject. "And, yeah, Yasmine is rough around the edges, but she's not that bad when you get to know her."

"Oh?" Aisha looks at me in surprise. 

"Yeah," Sam nods on behalf of me.

"And here I thought Demetri was losing it again," Aisha says.

I straighten up at the mention, "What do you mean?"

"He... he saw a picture of you on Yasmine's Instagram and swore you were out to get him," she laughs.

I let out a deep and annoyed breathe, "What?"

Aisha looks at Sam, "Well, you know Demetri, he's always paranoid."

"Of course he would make this about him," I shake my head. 

"All we did was have a fun girls' day," Sam assures Aisha. 

"Well, I heard that Demetri thinks you were the cause of the break up," Aisha shrugs.

I stare at her in shock, "All I did was tell Yasmine the truth about him being a misogynistic prick."

"Oh," Aisha frowns.

Sam speaks up, "This doesn't mean anything for the dojo, though. We're going to be happy to have you."

"You will. They won't. They never will," I sigh at the realization that I'm trying to join a dojo that hates me just as much as my old one.

"They might come around," Aisha tries to be positive. 

"Just remember why you're doing this: to get rid of Cobra Kai," Sam reminds me.

A knock comes at the doorframe, "Sam, you said you needed to talk to me?" I turn around and see Daniel.

"Hey," Sam turns to him excitedly, "actually, Zion wants to talk to you."

Daniel waves to Aisha before smiling at me, "Sure. What is it?"

I hesitate. Maybe Jai, Eva, and Liv were right; maybe this is a bad idea. I look at Daniel and all the nerve I've built up since talking with Miguel yesterday is gone.

I look back at Sam and Aisha for a sense of what to do. They smile supportively. I frown.

"Maybe alone?" Sam looks at my nervous face and tries to reassure me.

I look at Daniel who shrugs in confusion. I nod. I react in a simple way. I try to keep pushing forward and through the fear. I'm stronger than the fear.

"Sure. We can talk downstairs?" Daniel suggests. 

"You can come back up when you're done," Sam snaps me back to reality as she gently pushes me forward.

⭒⭒⭒

I sit across from Daniel at the kitchen table. I can feel his curious gaze on me. I look down at my hands instead.

"What did you want to talk about?" he asks.

His presence is so comforting in comparison to every other male I've been around since my dad. He's genuine and supportive and loving. But, he isn't my dad and that's something to be aware of.

"Um..." I try to find the courage. My mind is at war with itself. I look up at Daniel, "I came here to ask to join Miyagi-Fang."

Daniel cracks a small smile, "That's great. Of course we'd love to-"

"No. You would," I correct him. "And maybe Sam and Miguel and Aisha. But, the others? They all hate me."

"That's not entirely true," he tries to argue.

"It's very true," I frown. "Can you tell me honestly that me joining wouldn't make everyone upset?"

"You're not a Cobra Kai anymore," Daniel says supportively. 

"I know that, but they don't. They may never truly believe me," I say. "That's something I didn't really think about before, but now it's naive to not even consider it. I want to join. I just don't want to ruin everything I've worked for."

Daniel takes a moment. "I understand. You've made so much progress. I don't want it to disappear, either. Once I actually felt okay after Silver, I wasn't sure I'd ever want to be a sensei again. I didn't want to think about karate, even though it's such a big part of my life. The truth is, I can't tell you there won't be pushback on you joining." I nod sadly. He continues, "But I don't think what other people think about you is something that should stop you from doing what you want."

"I've gotten pretty good at blocking the voices out," I admit. "I'm just a different person than I was at Christmastime. I faced so much, but I had someone with me the entire time."

He realizes, "Robby."

"He was always there," I whisper.

"It sounds like now is a good time to be there for yourself," he supports. "But, you also have me and Sam and Miguel."

I smile slightly, "I know."

"You've been listening to other people your whole life: your dad, then your mom, then Johnny, then Kreese, then Silver, then what-have-you. I think it's time for you to listen to yourself," Daniel advises.

I close my eyes and take in a deep breath. I let it out slowly.

"If you think you're not ready, then don't join just yet. We'll be here for whenever you're ready."

Another deep breath in.

"This is my life," I nod. "I'm ready."

⭒⭒⭒

That night, I have trouble falling asleep. I toss and turn on the Diaz's couch to find a comfortable position. All I feel is worry about tomorrow.

I look over to see the man with Sensei, wearing just a black t-shirt and jeans now. I get into my spot, ready to have a fun day of karate. "This is Mr. Kreese," he says about the visitor. "He's just an observer. Pretend like he's not even here."

I sit up and grab my sensory slug to get the panic to go away.

"Hit him again," Sensei Kreese says to my surprise. I look down at Assface and wonder if Sensei Kreese is really meaning it or if this is a test. I glance at Hawk who looks just as confused. Miguel, too. "Do you have a problem with that?" I hate being put on the spot; I feel uncomfortable, like when my mom would yell at me. I push it away and shake my head at Sensei Kreese. "A fight isn't over until your enemy is finished. You show your enemy no mercy." I stare at him a moment and nod, feeling all eyes on me. I move closer to Assface and lift my leg to kick him.

Minutes pass as I fail to distract myself.

"Class, meet Sensei Terry Silver." Another older white man walks in wearing a Cobra Kai gi. He's really tall and has a white ponytail. I look at Tory for her opinion, but she hasn't made it yet. "Co-founder of Cobra Kai and one of the most ferocious fighters in the history of the sport. Together, we built Cobra Kai from the ground up and now he is here to help you prepare for the All Valley."

Breathe in. Breathe out. Breathe in. Breathe out.

"What's his weakness?" Kreese asks me.

"His conviction. He has none."

"Use it."

"Yes, Sensei," I nod.

I walk out on the mat opposite of Kyler. We bow to each other and I see him smirking at me. At least this will be a quick takedown.

"Aitz!"

He dodges my hook kick before throwing a punch that I deflect. We circle each other until I go in with a hook kick that makes contact, but it isn't enough to send him down yet. Kyler kicks my shoulder and I push him back. He advances to my other shoulder and I protect my upper body. This leaves my waist free for Kyler to kick and wrap his ankle around. He rushes around me and yanks me forward as I stumble in surprise at the fact that he even landed a hit. I kick and kick to get him to back off, but he stops me mid-spin kick with his hands.

They land on my waist.

"Not so strong now, huh?" he whispers in my ear for only me to hear, as if he knows all my deepest and darkest fears. He takes my arm and flips me around so my back lands on the ground harder than ever before. I can hear the collective gasps as I make contact with the mat. Kyler stands over me and looks down with a mocking expression on his face.

"Well done, Mr. Park!" Sensei Silver praises.

That's when I snap and throw my leg up. It hits him in the nose and he lets out a painful sound. I jump up to take advantage of his loss of balance.I body slam him to the ground and pull my arm back to make his nose even bloodier so he can feel worse pain than me. A strong, powerful hand wraps around my arm and another arm lifts my torso up from the ground and away from Kyler. I try to resist as his touch pulls me away from Kyler. It makes me severely uncomfortable and I feel my breathing worsen.

"We are done, Miss Ambrose." Sensei Silver finally lets go of me and I let my muscles deflate uselessly. "You lost."

I even pace around the Diaz's kitchen before deciding to go outside and get some air.

My hands shake as I close the door gently behind me. I pace back and forth, hoping that something I do will help.

My eyes look at my car, and I wonder if taking a late night drive is a good idea.

A door opens near me, and I jump in surprise. I relax when I see it's only Miguel.

"Can't sleep?" he asks.

"How'd you guess?" I shrug.

"What are you thinking about?" he sits on a bench. 

I join him. "Tomorrow. If I'm ready for this. I'm all in my head about it. I know it makes sense for me to come back and fight Cobra Kai. But, it makes no sense to join a dojo that hates me. Or, a dojo where Robby and Eli train, too. I've made so many mistakes, and I don't even know how to begin with an apology."

"I don't think most things in life make sense," Miguel agrees.

"But?" I look at him.

"Oh," he frowns, "that was it. I'm not very good at pep talks."

I laugh slightly as I lean on him and he tips over a little. Then, he pushes me back and laughs.

"I'm also worried about being in a real dojo again," I admit.

"Don't worry. It's outside and nothing like Cobra Kai," he assures me.

"I don't just mean the look," I shake my head. "I mean, the phrases, the formations, the moves. I freak out over little things that remind me of my mom and other things. What if tomorrow is too much all at once?"

"I got worried when Johnny started up Eagle Fang after my accident. It wasn't easy. But, Z, you're a lot stronger than I am," Miguel tells me. "If I went through the things you did, I'd probably never come back."

"Do you think it's stupid for me to?" I ask.

"No," he shakes his head. "I know your heart; you want to do the right thing. And, you're kind of a natural at martial arts in a way nobody else I know is. And, you seem to enjoy it. You coming back just makes sense."

I smile a little at his observation, "Is this you admitting that I'm better than you?"

"Never," he shakes his head. "You've stopped training while I'm still going. I'm definitely better."

"Is that so?" I roll my eyes.

"We can go right here and right now. Two am in the middle of this complex. Let's do it," Miguel stands up and challenges me. "Winner does the dishes the rest of the week."

I stand up with a smirk, "You're on."

Miguel and I bow to each other. He throws a punch that I block, then I go low. I sweep his legs as he jumps and avoids me. 

I flip back over to land on my feet as Miguel circles around me. I counter by circling his circle, and it throws him off. My front kick just barely misses him as he steps back and rushes around the complex to the other side by a column. 

I sigh playfully when I realize that there's no "in bounds," and that he's taking advantage of that.

"Come get me!" Miguel whisper-yells as I follow him at a steady pace. 

I can tell he has a trap planned that I don't want to fall into. Instead, I use his circling idea and circle him. He moves right and left to avoid me as I step closer and closer. 

Then, he rushes to one side, and I chase after him. That's when I corner him and crescent kick for him to block. I punch to each side of his body so he can feel trapped before I move in for the final point. He twists his body to the side as I pull my arm back-

"Ow," he grunts and holds out his hand to stop me.

My fist falls down as I stop immediately, "Are you okay?"

Miguel side kicks my stomach, causing me to stumble back. He stands up perfectly fine, "Point, Diaz!"

"What?" I ask in surprise.

"I didn't think you would actually fall for that," he smiles proudly.

I look at him in shock, "You asshole! I was actually worried."

"Shh," he puts his finger to his lips. "You sound like a sore loser."

"You cheated," I cross my arms like a child.

"And you fell for it," Miguel shrugs carelessly.

I rush up behind him and flick the back of his head, "Jerk."

Just as we make it to the door, Miguel grabs the knob and then turns to me, "Good luck with the dishes."

I glare at him as he opens the door and puts his finger to his mouth once more. I frown since I have to be quiet now. 

"Are you tired yet?" he whispers.

"Of your bullshit," I nod.

"Goodnight, Z," he whispers and wanders back into his room.

"Goodnight," I smile to myself before laying on the couch and frowning. I hate doing the dishes.

⭒⭒⭒

I park at Miyagi-Do. Miguel sits in the seat beside me. He's here early for moral support; I need it.

"Johnny usually gets here early to meet with Chozen and Mr. LaRusso," Miguel explains. "So, I guess they're inside."

I nod as I take in a deep breath. I close my eyes for a minute to center myself.

"I'm really excited for this, you know," Miguel says, "but if you're still unsure that's okay. You can just drop me off and try another day."

I open my eyes and look at him, "I'm ready."

"Okay," he nods. "I've got your back."

"Thank you," I tell him as I unlock the doors.

Miguel steps out first. I hesitate a moment before stepping out, too.

We walk into the little hut. All three men turn to us. Daniel and Chozen smile while Johnny looks at me in surprise. 

"Zion? What are you doing here?" Johnny asks in confusion as his eyes dart between me and Miguel. I feel badly because he must have no idea.

"I'm here to join Miyagi-Fang," I say. My voice comes out more nervous than I anticipated. My eyes dart between the three men. 

Johnny looks at Daniel for confirmation, "You're here to join our dojo?"

Daniel smiles slightly, "I think she's more than ready to move on from our training together."

"Better together," Chozen follows Daniel's lead. I feel happy when he does.

"This is great," Johnny says wearily, "but I don't want you to get worse."

"I'm done abusing substances," I tell all of them. "You don't need to worry about that anymore."

"That's not entirely what I meant," Johnny frowns. "I know about your panic-"

"I'm fine," I tell him curtly. "I'm working on things. Right now, this is something I need to do."

"Okay, okay, but are you sure, Zion? This summer has been crazy. I don't want you to be more stressed out. It'll be a rough sell to the others. And, you just got back into fighting shape, so take it easy," Johnny continues as if he doesn't want me to join.

"I've got it," I say as I try not to get frustrated.

Miguel interjects, "Just say you'll let her join."

Johnny looks at Daniel and Chozen and nods, "We're here for you, kid. Welcome back."

I smile excitedly as Daniel comes over and rests his hand on my shoulder, "I think now is as good of a time to show you what Miyagi-Do has to offer."

I walk with him as Miguel, Chozen, and Johnny walk behind us. I actually catch Johnny giving me an excited smile.

Chozen does, too, in his own way. I barely know Chozen, though. It may take some time.

"This is Mr. Miyagi's Medal of Honor," Daniel gestures to a framed medal. I tense at the memory of it all. Daniel smiles slightly, "Relax. I know it wasn't you."

Johnny speaks up from behind me, "Besides, you're forgiven for everything. You've come a long way since last summer."

Miguel gives me a supportive smile as he leads me to follow Daniel into the next room.

"These are the two rules of Miyagi-Do," Daniel stops in front of two tapestries.

I recall, "'Karate is for defense only.'"

Johnny scoffs behind me. Daniel gives him a look. Johnny turns it into a fake cough as Chozen laughs slightly with him.

I smile a little, knowing that this is only the real rule for this dojo in particular.

"And the second rule?" Daniel turns to me.

"Relearn the first rule."

Daniel gives me a proud smile as we walk along a row of old portraits.

"These are different senseis of Miyagi-Do through the years. This is what Shimpo Sensei may have looked like," he points to the last one. 

"Miyagi-Do tradition passed down many, many years. Ancestors have spread it to not just Nariyoshi Miyagi but to all Miyagi relatives," Chozen speaks up from behind me.

"Sato was Chozen's uncle and just one relative that practiced Miyagi-Do karate," Daniel agrees.

"Oh," Johnny looks at him in surprise, "so you're like the real deal?"

"Of course I am real deal," Chozen tells him bluntly.

"Anyway," Daniel takes me out of the room, "as you can see we have many pictures of Miyagi relatives. And here is this is the chest that holds ancient techniques passed down to Mr. Miyagi and Sato and me and Chozen."

"Hey, Dad..." Sam walks into the hut and stops when she sees me. She smiles, "Zion."

"Hi," I say as the nerves begin to bubble in my stomach. But, they're good nerves.

"What is it, Sam?" Daniel asks.

"Class starts in ten," she tells him.

Johnny nods, "We'd better get a game plan set up for today."

"Well, I can run things if you want to fine-tune your defense," Daniel suggests as they walk out to the beautiful yard.

I stand and stare at everything inside this place. There's so much history. There are so many things to learn. There's so much to achieve. I'm just one person.

"My dad can finish the tour later," Sam assures me.

"I can continue it," Miguel offers. "This is a picture of a dead guy, this is a picture of a dead guy-"

"Very mature," Sam smiles. 

He smiles and pulls her in for a kiss. I wince at the PDA. Is this how I used to be?

"How are you feeling?" Sam asks him. "Is your back all right?"

"Yeah. Little to no pain today," Miguel nods.

"Good," she tells him.

I step away from them and into a room of its own. It's gorgeous and filled with so many artifacts.

"This is Mr. Miyagi's room," Sam catches up to me. "It's sacred."

"Oh, sorry," I step out and close the door.

"It's okay. I'm sure my dad would have showed you eventually," Sam gives me a vote of confidence. "Are you nervous for today?"

I look between her and Sam, "Yeah. Just a little bit."

"Don't worry. I've got your back," Miguel assures me. "You can even make a grand entrance if you want. Just wait for Mr. LaRusso's cue."

"I'm so excited," Sam tells me once more before turning away with Miguel.

"See you in a minute," Miguel says excitedly before walking out the same way as our senseis.

Our senseis.

I smile to myself as I walk around the dojo.

My new dojo.

I hear voices outside the hut. I shift into another room by myself to hide in for the time being. I know now that I'm not alone, and that's sort of calming my nerves.

Still, I grab my keys and play with the sensory slug attached to the keychain nervously. It distracts me for a moment while the voices of many people ring in my ears. 

I glare towards Demetri and Samantha, "We will never see eye-to eye. We will never be on the same side. I've trusted the wrong people too many times. I'm not making those mistakes again."

I hear Demetri outside talking to some others. I keep choosing to forget he's here. 

I know that this is the only way to not face Cobra Kai on my own again. I know that this is probably my best bet. But, I feel weird about joining a dojo with people who hate me and who I don't particularly like: Demetri, Chris, Mitch, Nate. Or, about joining a dojo with two of my exes in it. 

I'm learning to be okay on my own and to love myself and whatever, but I still know that it's going to hurt being in a dojo every day with Robby when I can't make him understand me the way he used to and when I can't touch him the way I used to. 

This is for me, though, and it's not about anyone else. I'm strong enough to handle this.

I set down my keys when I hear Daniel address the group outside. There's no turning back after this.

"Cobra Kai has taken over The Valley. All that anyone knows now is Cobra Kai karate. Terry Silver's karate," Daniel reminds everyone.

"If this continues, all we've fought for won't even be memory," Chozen adds. "Snake grows larger everyday. Swallow everything in its path."

I take a deep breath in as I prepare for my entrance.

"Something's cooking over there," Johnny continues. "We have to make our move now. If we don't, every kid in The Valley is gonna be forced to choose."

Daniel nods, "Which is why..."

I open the doors of the dojo to enter the backyard. I look out at everyone...

And that's when all hell breaks loose.

"What is she doing here?" "Oh, God." "What are you thinking?" "Hell no." "Why is she here?" "Mr. LaRusso, you can't be serious!" "What's going on?" "No, no, no."

Their words swarm in my head. I thought I was prepared for this. I thought I could handle it.

"QUIET!" Johnny shouts.

The dojo goes silent. I feel their eyes burn on me. 

I can't look at Robby. I see Demetri and Eli standing together. I see Bert looking at me skeptically. All I can do is focus on Sam, Miguel, and Aisha who stand next to each other and send support my way.

"I said we have to make a move," Daniel reiterates.

"This is your move?" Bert questions.

"That's a bad move," Nate agrees with him.

Daniel holds out his arms to calm them down, "Hold on, hold on. She has as much of a right to be here as you."

"Bullshit!" Mitch yells.

"She has no right to be one of us." "Get her out of here." "The Queen Cobra can't redeem herself." "Don't you remember what she did to us?"

"This isn't..." Daniel struggles to speak over them as he looks at me worriedly.

I look down, too scared to see an angry face again. This is what Cobra Kai says about me. I wish this new dojo weren't the same way. I suddenly miss one-on-one training.

"Guys!" Aisha screams over everyone. They actually snap to attention and listen. "Hear her out."

My eyes drift over to Robby who stands off to himself. He peels his eyes away from me the second he catches me staring.

"Give her a chance," Sam adds.

"Did you forget everything she did to us - to you, Sam?" a brown-haired student asks her.

"I do," she nods, "but I also remember her fighting with us at the All Valley. I also remember her and I becoming friends because I gave her a chance. The least we can do is give her one, too."

"This is messed up," Mitch mutters.

"No. She's right." I look over at Eli in surprise when he speaks up. "Cobra Kai got her like they got me. She's paid her dues. We should give her a chance."

"She lost in the All Valley anyway." "What good is she for us?" "Cobra Kai didn't do enough to her." "I can't forgive her." "I don't think she can change."

"I was there when she got beat up," Demetri shushes them when he finally talks. "It was all real, what they did." I look at him in surprise. "I don't think she's a Cobra anymore."

I feel a little hope bubble in my chest when they all actually listen to him. I stare in disbelief as he defends me; they all do.

"Do I think she should join us?" he continues. "No."

My face drops. He's the same guy he always was; that's apparent.

"I don't want to fight alongside her. Not until she proves herself. Not until she apologizes. Not until she says she's sorry for everything she's done to us. Nobody is redeemed that quickly." He turns and his eyes focus on me as if to challenge me.

The rest of the dojo turns to me skeptically. 

I know they're going to be disappointed. Because I can't find it in myself to be sorry for absolutely everything.

I take in a deep breath, "What I did wasn't entirely right. I made mistakes. I was influenced by Kreese and Silver, but so many of you know what that's like."

"That's no excuse," Chris frowns.

I shake my head, "I'm not perfect. I'm not ever going to be everything everyone wants me to be. But, I'm also not a Cobra Kai anymore. This is me asking for a chance... I'm sorry," I look at Nate, "For beating you up when I should have known better. For stealing your money. For fighting all of you. For taking 'no mercy' to the extreme. I realize now how wrong I was."

I look over at Miguel who smiles supportively. I see the group of boys become less tense at my apology. I look down at my nails as I pick at them anxiously.

"All we're saying is to give her a chance," Sam agrees.

Eli nods slightly as Bert and Nate agree with him. Demetri looks at the older boys who still seem to agree with him.

I acknowledge it, "I'm not saying I need you to forgive me immediately or that we have to be friends. Things like this take time. I have a lot to make up for."

They're not convinced. I feel like an idiot for even suggesting I join.

Daniel steps in again, "We have to remember that it doesn't matter who anyone was before they stepped into this dojo. All that matters is that today we are all a part of Miyagi-Do, er, Miyagi-Fang."

"I won't be a part of anything with her." "She's a bitch." "I'll leave before I have to be with her."

I look at Miguel in dismay. He walks over to stand next to me, "Okay, fine. You know what? Then leave."

Everyone stares at him in shock when he says this.

"It would be a real shame if you did, though. Because she," Miguel points at me, "is giving us the best chance at beating Cobra Kai that we've had all summer."

Chris looks at him skeptically, "How do you figure that?"

I look up at Miguel, wondering the same thing.

"Miguel, think about this. She's a liability," Demetri gestures to me.

I hear the hostility in his voice. They all have it.

Miguel argues, "What you guys see as a liability is actually our biggest asset. She's only ever trained with Cobra Kai."

"We know that," one of them shouts. "She was the Queen Cobra."

I look out at all their skeptical faces. Robby looks at me for my next words, along with Eli and Sam and Aisha. I take in a deep breath.

"Miguel is right. I can share things that you don't know about Cobra Kai. Together we can take them down," I assure them.

"Together?" Mitch asks skeptically.

"Only if you let me," I nod.

"I still say we can't trust her." "She's unstable." "I don't want an alcoholic here."

My breathing hitches as I see the boys huddle together to talk about the worst time in my life. I can't even explain everything to them. I glance over at Robby as he shakes his head and stays silent.

I speak up for myself, "I know what I've done, sober and drunk. I know what I did of my own volition at Cobra Kai. I know I ruined a lot of things when I drank. I was scared, and I lived in fear. I drank... a lot more than I ever should have." My eyes meet Robby's for a moment. I look away and try to keep it together. "I can't take it back, but I can be better. The past doesn't define me as long as you try to give me a chance to be something different."

They all still give me an unsure stare as they mutter amongst themselves. Miguel takes my hand in support with a small smile. Whatever I say will never convince them, but I have to train here. I have to get back out there and learn more than what just Daniel can teach.

"She's joining, guys, whether you like it or not," Daniel grabs their attention. He gives me a supportive smile as I take deep breaths. "Welcome to the dojo, Zion."

⭒⭒⭒

A/N: Kind of a weird place to end a chapter. Idk anymore.

<3