𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐘-𝐎𝐍𝐄. power is power

THE SUN HUNG LOW IN THE sky, casting long, golden rays that danced across the polished wood of the deck, creating a mosaic of light and shadow. Each beam seemed to linger, illuminating the determined faces of the young warriors.

Jieun stood among them, her presence a stark contrast to the serenity of the setting sun. She was a figure of intensity, her dark eyes burning with a fierce focus that seemed to pierce through the very air.

To the boy who stood before her, Nate, she must have seemed like a force of nature. They had long before, yet he could feel the weight of her aura pressing upon him, challenging him in ways he had not anticipated.

The sun's warmth was deceptive, for there was a chill in the air that cut through the tension like a knife. It whispered of impending conflict, a silent harbinger of the struggles that lay ahead. Jieun's stance was relaxed yet poised, her body a coiled spring ready to unleash its energy. Her movements, though minimal, exuded a sense of controlled power, a silent promise of her capability.

Nate, still learning the rhythms of this new world, felt a knot of anxiety tighten in his stomach. He had heard stories of Jieun — her prowess, her unyielding spirit — and now, facing her, he could see that those stories had not done her justice.

She was a storm contained within a human form, her every breath a testament to her resolve.

The deck beneath their feet creaked softly as the wind picked up, carrying with it the scent of pine and earth. It was a moment suspended in time, where the past and future seemed to converge in the present, each heartbeat echoing the promise of potential and the threat of defeat. The sun dipped lower, casting a fiery glow over the horizon as if setting the stage for the battle that was about to commence.

Jieun's eyes never left Nate's, and in that gaze, he saw not just a challenge, but an invitation. An invitation to step beyond his fears, to meet her intensity with his own, and to find within himself the strength he had yet to discover.

Jieun's gaze remained locked on Nate, unwavering and intense. Red flags fluttered from everyone's gi, tied at strategic points — their elbows, backs, and ankles. These small tokens would dictate the outcome of their encounter, symbols of victory and defeat. The tension thickened, an invisible web connecting each participant as they readied themselves for the fray.

Jieun's eyes flitted from one opponent to the next, absorbing every detail with a precision honed from countless hours of practice. She took in the hesitance in the weaker students, their nervous glances and fidgeting stances. These would be her first targets, their flags easily plucked in the initial chaos.

Her mind moved swiftly, calculating strategies for those who stood as her equals or even her betters. There was a fluid grace to her thoughts, each plan merging seamlessly into the next. She noted the confident set of Miguel's shoulders, the subtle shift of Robby's weight as he prepared for action, and the determined glint in Tory's eyes. They were formidable, each presenting unique challenges that she would have to navigate with both cunning and skill.

Jieun's presence was magnetic, drawing the eyes of her peers even as they tried to focus on their own preparations. She was aware of this effect, using it to her advantage, a silent acknowledgment of her readiness.

The ground beneath her feet seemed to pulse with anticipation, a living entity attuned to the collective energy of the students. Jieun adjusted her stance, her body attuned to the rhythms of the earth, her mind a sharp blade ready to strike. She imagined the coming minutes, visualizing the swift removal of flags from her first targets, and the precise maneuvers needed to outmatch her stronger opponents.

As the signal to begin loomed closer, Jieun's mind sharpened its focus on the stronger few, her strategies unfolding with meticulous clarity. She knew that direct confrontation would not suffice; each of them demanded a unique approach, a blend of subtlety and force.

Miguel, with his steady confidence and solid frame, would be a formidable opponent. Jieun planned to draw him into a feint, exploiting his predictability. She imagined the way he would react to a sudden movement towards his left, where his defense was typically strongest. She would use his strength against him, redirecting his energy and slipping behind him to claim the flag from his ankle.

Robby, agile and quick, required a different tactic. His movements were fluid, almost dance-like, and Jieun knew she would need to disrupt his rhythm. She visualized a series of rapid, unpredictable feints, each one designed to throw him off balance. She would wait for the moment his concentration wavered, just a fraction, and then strike at his back where his flag fluttered vulnerably.

Tory, with her intense focus and fierce determination, posed a unique challenge. Jieun respected her immensely, aware that Tory's strength lay not just in her physical abilities but in her mental fortitude. To defeat her, Jieun would need to employ a strategy of attrition. She planned to engage Tory in a series of quick, evasive maneuvers, wearing down her stamina and patience. Each pass would be a test, probing for weaknesses, until finally, Jieun could exploit a lapse in Tory's defense and claim the flag from her elbow.

The world around her seemed to hold its breath, the stillness before the storm. Jieun felt the weight of her presence, her own heartbeat a steady drumbeat in the symphony of the challenge. Her eyes swept over her peers one last time, noting their readiness, their own silent determinations.

Jieun's mind shifted to Sam, another challenging opponent whose speed was a defining trait. Sam's background in Miyagi-Do karate made her a defensive powerhouse, her techniques honed to perfection. Jieun recognized that a head-on attack would be futile; Sam's defensive maneuvers would deflect any straightforward attempt. Instead, Jieun decided to exploit the gaps in Sam's offense, knowing that her cautious nature could be turned against her. She planned to lure Sam into overcommitting to a defensive position, creating an opening to snatch the flag from her elbow in a moment of hesitation.

Next, Jieun's focus settled on Eli, also known as Hawk, a menace in the dojo with his fierce reputation from Cobra Kai now melded with the discipline of Miyagi-Do. Hawk's presence was intimidating; he moved with a predatory grace, each step a testament to his prowess.

Yet today, she sensed an unusual fragility in his demeanor. His sharp edges seemed slightly dulled, his focus not as acute as usual. It would be easy to exploit this moment of weakness, to strike when he was not at his best. But Jieun, in her quiet contemplation, acknowledged the deeper layers of respect she held for him. Hawk was one of the lucky few who deserved a place among the top seven, his journey marked by perseverance and growth.

Her strategy for Hawk was thus twofold. She would test him, probing the extent of his defenses with quick, precise strikes, assessing whether his current state could withstand a true challenge. If she found him lacking, she would allow him to regroup, a silent acknowledgment of his worth. But if he responded with the ferocity she knew he possessed, she would engage him fully, a worthy adversary in the crucible of combat.

Each flag fluttered like a beacon, targets that would determine the outcome of their struggle. Jieun's thoughts flickered to her own flags, tied to her gi with the same care and precision she applied to her strategies. She was both hunter and hunted, her awareness extending to the movements and intentions of her peers.

In the stillness, she found a rhythm, a silent beat that guided her thoughts. The weaker students would fall quickly, their flags taken in the opening moments. She envisioned the sequence: a swift strike here, a deft maneuver there, each action a step towards thinning the ranks. Her mind moved like water, flowing through the complexities of each opponent, adapting and adjusting her plans with an almost instinctual ease.

The sun above seemed to watch, its distant light a reminder of the vastness beyond this moment. Yet for Jieun, this deck, this challenge, was her universe. Every breath, every heartbeat, was attuned to the present, her strategies a living, breathing entity within her. She felt the connection to the earth beneath her feet, the air that filled her lungs, the shared determination of her peers.

The tension finally shattered as Barnes's voice cut through the air, a sharp blade slicing through the quiet anticipation. "Top twelve, get ready." His words were a command and a catalyst, setting the stage for the challenge that lay ahead. "Today's challenge is a battle royale. The rules are simple. Protect your flags. Steal the others. Lose your flags and you're out. The ones with the most flags at the end go to Barcelona. The rest of you will be judged on performance. You have two minutes." His hand hovered over the stopwatch, the silent countdown already ticking in their minds. "Ready?"

The moment Barnes's voice echoed with the word "fight," the deck exploded into motion. Jieun, her mind a storm of calculated intent, moved with purpose. Her first target was Nate, the boy whose name she had learned that very day. His lower rank would be his downfall, a weakness Jieun intended to exploit swiftly.

She launched herself towards him, her body a blur of focused energy. Nate's eyes widened, his stance faltering as he tried to anticipate her movements. Jieun feinted left, a sharp, deceptive motion designed to throw him off balance. She could see the uncertainty in his gaze, the momentary hesitation that would be his undoing.

With fluid grace, she pivoted on her heel, her hand darting out to snatch the flag from his back. The fabric slipped free, a vivid splash of red against her hand as she secured her first victory. Nate stumbled, his loss a stark contrast to the fluidity of her movements. She didn't linger, her focus already shifting to her next target.

The deck was a chaotic dance of bodies, each student immersed in their own battles. Jieun's eyes flicked to Miguel, who was engaged with another opponent, his strength a formidable barrier. She filed away the observation, her mind always several steps ahead. For now, she turned her attention to another nearby student, their defenses weak and easily penetrated.

Jieun moved with the precision of a seasoned warrior, each action deliberate and efficient. The flags fluttered like scarlet birds, markers of success and failure. She targeted another Mitch, this one slower, his movements telegraphed and predictable. It was a matter of moments before she had their flag in hand, her collection growing with each calculated strike.

The air was thick with the sounds of exertion, the soft thud of feet against wood, and the rustle of fabric as flags were claimed. her breath was steady, her mind clear. She was in her element, the chaos around her a symphony of opportunity. Each flag she took was a step closer to her goal, each opponent a test of her skill and resolve.

In the midst of the swirling chaos, Jieun's sharp eyes spotted Robby. A smirk tugged at the corner of her lips, an almost playful glint dancing in her gaze. The memory of their shared moments, the unspoken connection between them, added a layer of complexity to the encounter.

She moved towards him with the grace of a predator, each step measured, her intent clear. Robby was engrossed in his own battle, his movements fluid and confident.

The moment of levity between them had passed, replaced by a fierce determination. They were equals, each testing the other's limits, their movements a dance of skill and strategy.

Robby advanced on her, his movements fluid and controlled. He aimed for the flag tied to her elbow, his hand darting out with precision. Jieun shifted, her body a blur as she twisted away from his grasp. The ground beneath their feet seemed to pulse with their combined energy, each step a testament to their training.

Their fight was a silent conversation, a blend of attack and defense, each movement a question and answer. Robby pressed forward, his intent clear. He was close, so close to claiming her flag, his fingers just brushing the fabric. But Jieun was not so easily outmaneuvered. She shifted her weight, moving with the grace of a dancer, evading his reach.

Their eyes met a shared understanding passing between them. In that instant, Jieun's expression softened, a smile playing at the corners of her lips. It was a moment of pure, unspoken connection. She leaned in, her lips brushing his cheek in a fleeting kiss. The touch was light, almost ethereal, yet it carried a weight of significance.

Robby's reaction was immediate. The blush spread across his face, his focus shattered by the unexpected gesture. His movements slowed, his concentration faltering. Jieun seized the moment, her opportunity clear. With the precision of a practiced warrior, she slipped behind him, her hand darting out to snatch the flag tied to his back. The fabric came free easily, a red ribbon of victory in her grasp.

Robby sighed, a mixture of resignation and amusement in his eyes. He knew he had been distracted, his concentration broken by the kiss. her giggle carried through the air, a brief, melodious note that contrasted with the intense atmosphere of the sparring deck. She secured the flag, adding it to her collection.

The sun above seemed to twinkle with approval, the distant light a backdrop to the human drama unfolding below. Jieun's breath came steady, her heartbeat a constant rhythm that guided her movements.

The battle raged on, each clash a testament to the relentless pursuit of victory. Jieun's sharp eyes scanned the yard, her mind attuned to every movement around her. Amid the chaos, she spotted Tory.

Tory, who still had every single flag tied to her gi. Their eyes met and a silent understanding passed between them. This would be a fight like no other, a true test of their abilities.

They ran towards each other, the distance between them closing rapidly. Their movements were fluid, almost synchronistic, each step a mirror of the other's determination. As they collided, the air around them seemed to crackle with energy.

Their fight was fierce, each blow and parry a testament to their training and resilience. Jieun's mind worked at lightning speed, her body a blur of motion. Tory matched her move for move, their strikes and counterstrikes blending into a seamless dance of combat. Despite their ferocity, they were evenly matched, each unable to gain the upper hand.

Jieun's focus narrowed, her world reduced to the immediate struggle against Tory. Every muscle, every sinew was attuned to the fight, her breath coming in steady, controlled rhythms. She aimed for the flags, her hands darting out with precision, but Tory was always a step ahead, her defenses impeccable.

Tory's determination was real, her eyes blazing with focus. Jieun could feel the intensity radiating from her, a tangible force that pushed her to fight harder. Their movements were a blur, a whirlwind of strikes and evasions, neither willing to give an inch. The flags fluttered, tantalizingly close yet frustratingly out of reach.

In a split second, Tory shifted her stance, her leg sweeping low. Jieun, caught in the rhythm of their battle, was a fraction too slow to react. Tory's leg hooked under hers, and Jieun felt her balance give way. She tumbled, her back hitting the ground with a force that knocked the breath from her lungs. The world seemed to slow, the sounds of the fight around her fading into the background.

As she lay there, a sharp ripping sound reached her ears. She glanced to her left and saw Tory standing over her, a triumphant gleam in her eyes, a red flag clutched in her hand. Jieun groaned, a mixture of frustration and admiration coursing through her.

Tory had successfully claimed a flag.

But even in defeat, there was no animosity. Jieun looked up at Tory, a smile breaking through the exhaustion and pain. Tory extended her hand, a gesture of respect and camaraderie. Jieun gladly took it, allowing Tory to help her to her feet. Their eyes met again, a mutual recognition of the effort and respect that defined their rivalry.

Jieun secured her stance, her mind already shifting to the next phase of the battle.

her eyes scanned the yard once again, her mind already seeking her next target. Her gaze fell on Miguel, his movements precise and powerful, his presence commanding respect. If Tory had been a fierce opponent, Miguel was a step beyond — a towering challenge that demanded her full attention.

Miguel thrived amidst the chaos, red flags fluttering around him like war banners. His prowess was evident in every movement, and his strategy was impeccable. Jieun's mind raced, crafting and discarding plans, seeking a way to breach his defenses. She knew this encounter would test her to the utmost limits of her skill and determination.

With a deep breath, she launched herself towards him, her body a blur of motion. Miguel met her advance with equal ferocity, their collision a symphony of strength and precision. They fought with a relentless rhythm, their movements synchronized yet distinct. Each strike was countered, and each defense met with an equally powerful offense.

Jieun could feel the strain in her muscles, the exertion pushing her to new heights. Miguel was a formidable opponent, his strength and agility a constant challenge. They circled each other, probing for weaknesses, their minds engaged in a silent, intricate dance of strategy and instinct.

The world around them faded, their focus narrowing to the immediate battle. Jieun's breath came in controlled bursts, her heart a steady drumbeat guiding her. She aimed for his flags, her hands darting out with precision, but Miguel's defenses were challenging, his reactions swift and sure.

Their fight was an endless cycle of attack and counterattack, neither gaining a decisive advantage. Jieun's mind whirled with possibilities, her body moving almost of its own accord. The world seemed to slow, their actions taking on a surreal clarity. She saw the determination in Miguel's eyes, mirrored by her own.

In a split-second decision, Jieun shifted her focus to Miguel's ankle, a target that required both speed and precision. She lunged forward, her hand reaching out just as Miguel made his move towards her back flag. The world seemed to hold its breath as their hands closed around the fabric simultaneously.

The ripping sound of the flags being torn free broke the spell, the moment crystallizing into sharp relief.

Jieun held Miguel's ankle flag, while Miguel held hers from her back.

They paused, the intensity of the battle giving way to a shared moment of realization. Their eyes met, a mutual acknowledgment of the fierce competition and respect that defined their encounter.

And then, as if on cue, they both laughed. The sound was a release, a shared exhalation of the tension that had built between them. Their laughter was a bridge, spanning the divide between competition and connection.

For that instant, they were simply two warriors recognizing the strength and determination in each other.

With her encounter with Miguel behind her, Jieun shifted her focus to the remaining flags on the sparring deck. She had accumulated a significant number of flags, each one a testament to her skill and strategy. The weight of them, both physical and metaphorical, made her ego swell, but she tempered it with the wisdom of experience. Ego was a dangerous companion in battle; she needed to remain sharp, grounded, and aware.

She moved through the deck with purpose, targeting the weaker opponents. Her movements were efficient, each flag she claimed adding to her collection. She was aware of the growing sense of triumph within her, but she kept it in check, knowing that complacency could be her downfall.

Suddenly, a forceful shove sent her sprawling to the ground. The shock of the impact jolted through her, but she was up in an instant, her body reacting with practiced instinct. She found herself face-to-face with Devon.

Devon, who had been hovering on the periphery, her eyes constantly darting towards Sensei Lawrence, Sensei LaRusso, and Sensei Barnes. It was clear she was trying to prove her worth, seeking their approval through her actions.

Jieun scoffed, a mix of irritation and amusement bubbling up within her. Devon's desperation was noticeable, a stark contrast to the calm confidence Jieun had cultivated. The fight began with an intensity that surprised Jieun. Devon fought with a fierce determination, her movements fueled by a burning need to prove herself.

They clashed with a flurry of strikes and counterstrikes, the sounds of their combat blending into the chaotic symphony of the sparring deck. Jieun found herself impressed by Devon's tenacity.

There were moments when Devon came dangerously close to claiming one of Jieun's flags, her hands brushing the fabric in near victories. Each close call heightened the stakes, pushing Jieun to fight harder, to be faster and more precise.

Devon's determination was evident, but Jieun's experience and skill ultimately prevailed. With a final, decisive move, Jieun secured her victory.

Devon huffed in frustration, her breath coming in sharp bursts. The defeat stung, but it was clear that Devon's spirit was unbroken. She turned and ran, seeking another opponent, her resolve undiminished.

The yard was a living canvas, with each student a brushstroke in the intricate painting of the battle. Jieun moved through it all with the precision of a seasoned artist, each action deliberate, each movement a testament to her skill. The flags she had claimed fluttered like trophies, their presence a silent affirmation of her prowess.

The air was cool against her skin, a stark contrast to the warmth of her exertion. Jieun's breath came steady, her heartbeat a constant rhythm that guided her movements. She was in harmony with herself and the world around her.

The sound of Barnes' voice cut through the air like a whip, the word "Time!" echoing across the sparring deck. The battle came to an abrupt halt, the intensity of the moment suspended in a collective breath.

Jieun's body hummed with the aftershocks of exertion, her mind still attuned to the rhythm of the fight. But before anyone could line up and display their hard-earned flags, a commotion drew her attention.

Anthony LaRusso lay on the ground, his face twisted in pain, blood trickling from his nose. Above him stood Kenny, his stance strong, his expression a mix of triumph and exhaustion. The scene unfolded with a jarring contrast to the orderly conclusion they had all anticipated.

Daniel was the first to react, his concern overriding any sense of decorum as he rushed to his son's side.

Jieun observed from a distance, her eyes narrowing as she tried to make sense of Daniel's actions. This was karate, a world where pain and injury were part of the landscape, as familiar as the gi she wore. The sight of blood was not unusual; it was a testament to the intensity of the training and the sacrifices made in pursuit of mastery. Yet here was Daniel, his face a mixture of concern and frustration, acting as though this was something that shouldn't happen.

She watched as Barnes, with his commanding presence, nodded at Kenny, acknowledging the clean strike that had left Anthony on the ground. It was a gesture of respect, a recognition of skill.

But then there was Daniel again, his exasperated sigh carrying across the deck. The words he spoke, filled with indignation and paternal concern, didn't match the world Jieun knew.

This was a dojo, a place where pain was expected, where the weak were weeded out so the strong could rise. The sight of Daniel hovering over his son, his focus more on the injury than on the lesson, unsettled her.

She couldn't understand why Daniel was reacting this way. This was the reality of karate — people got hurt, sometimes badly. It was a truth they all accepted when they stepped in. Injuries were not just a possibility but an inevitability. They were part of the process, the way the body and mind were conditioned, toughened, and honed.

She tried to reconcile Daniel's reaction with the man she had known — a legendary karate champion, a sensei who had faced his own share of brutal fights. The disconnect was striking. Was it different because it was his son? Was there something about Anthony, some fragility that Daniel saw in him, that made him react this way? Or was it simply that Daniel couldn't separate the roles of father and sensei, couldn't see past the blood to the lesson that Barnes was trying to impart?

Barnes, meanwhile, remained unyielding, his voice firm as he spoke. Jieun didn't need to hear the words to know what he was saying. If Anthony couldn't handle this, then he wasn't fit for the Sekai Taikai, the highest stage of their art. It was harsh, but it was true. The Sekai Taikai was not for the faint of heart. It demanded the best, the strongest, those who could endure not just physical pain but the mental strain that came with it. And in this moment, Anthony had faltered.

Her thoughts swirled as she watched the exchange. The idea of weakness had no place in her understanding of karate. Weakness was something to be confronted, and overcome, not coddled or excused.

Yet here was Daniel, a man she had respected, behaving in a way that seemed to contradict the very principles he had once fought for. It was disconcerting, and it left her questioning the nature of their training, the path they were all on.

Barnes' voice, sharp and commanding, cut through the tension that had settled over. His anger was palpable as he turned on Daniel, the frustration that had been simmering beneath the surface now boiling over.

He had little patience for what he saw as weakness or coddling, and Daniel's behavior had clearly crossed a line. The tension between them was a storm ready to break, but Barnes was the first to pull back, redirecting his focus to the task at hand.

He snapped his attention back to the students, his voice booming as he barked out, "Let me see those flags!" The command jolted them into action, the remnants of the battle they had just fought now manifesting in the colorful pieces of cloth that fluttered in their hands. One by one, they stepped forward, laying out their flags for all to see.

As the flags were revealed, it quickly became clear who had dominated the challenge. Jieun stood among them, her collection of flags a testament to her strategic prowess and relentless determination. Miguel, Robby, Tory, and Sam were right there with her, their own hands full of the crimson tokens that marked them as the strongest in the group.

Barnes surveyed the scene, his sharp eyes taking in the results of the challenge. His voice, though still edged with frustration, held a note of approval as he declared, "All right, we clearly have our top five." He nodded at them, calling their names one by one, each name a recognition of their skill, their effort, their place among the elite.

When he said Jieun's name, she felt a surge of pride. She had fought hard for this and had earned every flag through grit and strategy.

Robby's smile was radiant, a genuine expression of joy and pride that mirrored her own. It was the kind of smile that reached his eyes, filling them with a warmth that made Jieun's heart swell. They were both breathing hard from the exertion of the challenge, but in that instant, it didn't matter. All that mattered was the shared sense of accomplishment, the bond that had been forged through countless hours of training and countless battles fought side by side.

Without thinking, Jieun took a step closer to him, her own smile matching the brightness of his. There was something so pure, so unguarded in his expression that it made her feel light as if the weight of the world had been lifted, if only for a moment. She reached out, her hand brushing against his, a small gesture but one that carried all the unspoken emotions they shared.

Robby responded in kind, his fingers curling gently around hers. The touch was warm and reassuring, a silent promise of support and friendship, of something more that neither of them needed to put into words.

As Barnes continued to speak, confirming that they would be going to Barcelona, the reality of it all began to sink in. They had done it — they were in the top five. While the magnitude of that achievement was significant, what resonated most with Jieun at that moment was the fact that she had Robby beside her, sharing in the victory.

Robby gently tugged her closer, his hand warm and familiar against hers. She could feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, strong and reassuring, as she stepped into his embrace. It was a simple gesture, but it carried with it all the unspoken words they didn't need to say.

Jieun leaned into him, her head resting lightly against his shoulder. The world outside their little bubble seemed to disappear, leaving only the two of them, connected by something deeper than words could express. Robby's arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer, and she could feel the warmth of his breath against her hair.

His hand found its way to the small of her back, tracing gentle circles that sent a shiver down her spine. She tilted her head up to look at him, her eyes meeting his, and for a moment, they simply stood there, lost in each other's gaze. The intensity of his stare, the way he looked at her as if she were the only person in the world, made her heart swell with affection.

THE MORNING DAWNED WITH A quiet stillness that wrapped around the woods like a comforting embrace. The sun, still low in the sky, cast a gentle golden light between the trees, its warmth slowly dissipating the last remnants of the night's chill.

The air was crisp and clean, carrying with it the faint scent of pine and earth, a reminder of the nature that surrounded them. The soft rustle of leaves in the breeze and the distant call of a bird added to the tranquility of the morning, creating a moment of peace before the day's challenges began.

Jieun stood outside, her eyes drawn to the way the sunlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground. The events of the previous day still lingered in her mind — the intensity of the battle, the exhilaration of victory, and the quiet joy of sharing it with Robby.

But today was different. Barnes had announced that the final two spots for Barcelona would be decided by another round of capturing the flag, this time between the bottom four and only two flags in different areas of the woods. It was a relief for Jieun and the others who had already secured their places; they wouldn't have to compete again, at least not today.

As the four remaining competitors — Devon, Kenny, Demetri, and Eli — headed off to find the flag, the rest of the students gathered outside, waiting for the outcome.

There was a sense of anticipation in the air, but it was tinged with the calm that comes after a storm. Jieun found herself lost in thought, her mind wandering over the possibilities that lay ahead. Barcelona was just around the corner, and with it, new challenges and opportunities.

It was in this quiet moment of reflection that she felt a presence beside her. Turning slightly, she saw Miguel standing next to her, his hands tucked into the pockets of his sweater, his expression thoughtful. There was a familiarity to his presence, a comfort that came from the bond they had built over years of training and friendship.

Jieun smiled at him, a soft, welcoming gesture, and Miguel returned it with a grin that didn't quite reach his eyes.

For a while, they stood in silence, both of them watching the sun as it climbed higher in the sky. The trees around them were quiet, save for the occasional murmur of conversation from the others. But she could sense that something was on his mind, something that weighed heavily on him.

"Morning," Miguel's voice was soft, almost hesitant, as he came to stand beside her.

She turned to him with a smile, "Morning, wheezie." She studied his face, noticing the slight frown that marred his usually relaxed expression. "You okay?"

He shrugged, looking out at the horizon. "Yeah, just... got a lot on my mind."

"Wanna talk about it?" She offered, sensing that something was weighing on him.

Miguel hesitated, then nodded. "It's about college. I'm not sure if I want to go to Stanford anymore."

She blinked in surprise. "Why the change of heart?"

There was a brief pause as if Miguel was gathering his thoughts, deciding how much to share. Finally, he spoke, his voice quiet but steady, confessing that he wasn't sure if Stanford was still the right choice for him. He talked about the financial strain it would put on his family, the burden of student loans, and how he was beginning to think that maybe a community college would be a more realistic option.

She listened carefully, her brow furrowing in concern as she processed his words. It was clear that he had been wrestling with this decision for some time, and she could see the conflict in his eyes — the desire to pursue his dreams tempered by the harsh realities of life. But there was also something else, a hint of resignation that troubled her.

As she thought about what he had said, Jieun couldn't help but feel confused. She knew that Miguel was an exceptional student, one who had worked incredibly hard to earn his place at Stanford. And while she understood the financial challenges he faced, she couldn't help but wonder if he was selling himself short. There were scholarships, grants, and other resources that could help alleviate the burden, and she knew that Miguel had the potential to secure them.

Her expression softened. She could see the conflict in his eyes, the way he was torn between pursuing his dreams and not wanting to burden his family. "Don't sell yourself short. You deserve to go to Stanford if that's what you want. There are ways to make it work without sacrificing your education."

He looked at her, his brow furrowed. "Like what?"

"There are scholarships out there for students who show leadership, resilience, and community involvement," Jieun explained. "You've been through a lot, and you've come out stronger because of it. That's something scholarship committees look for. Plus, there are work-study programs and internships... you could find a way to make it work."

Miguel was quiet for a moment, digesting her words. "I guess I never really thought about it that way," he admitted. "I just kept thinking about how hard it would be."

"It will be hard," Jieun agreed, "but you're tougher than you think. You've got so much potential. Don't let fear hold you back. You can do this."

As she spoke, she watched Miguel's expression closely, hoping to see a flicker of hope or renewed determination. She knew that he had been through a lot, that his journey had been anything but easy, and she wanted to remind him of how far he had come. There was a strength in Miguel, a quiet resilience that had carried him through the toughest of times, and Jieun believed that this strength could guide him now, as he faced this new challenge.

Miguel listened intently, his gaze shifting from the ground to Jieun's face as she spoke. There was a moment of silence when she finished as if he was weighing her words, letting them sink in. Finally, he nodded, a slow, thoughtful movement, as if he was beginning to see the possibilities she had laid out before him.

She could see the change in his eyes, the way the worry and doubt seemed to lift, if only slightly. She knew that this was a decision Miguel would have to make for himself, but she hoped that their conversation had given him a new perspective, a reminder that he didn't have to choose between his dreams and his reality.

That there was a way to make them coexist.

They stood there for a while longer, the weight of their conversation hanging in the air between them. But there was also a sense of clarity, of mutual understanding, that left them both feeling a little lighter.

The sun had risen fully now, bathing the woods in warm light.

"What are your plans for college?" Miguel asked.

Jieun shrugged. The easy confidence she usually carried seemed to waver for a moment, and in that small gesture, he caught a glimpse of uncertainty, of a path not yet fully defined.

It was a stark contrast to the Jieun he had first met years ago, back when she had been the biggest and best soccer player he'd ever seen.

He could still remember the first time he saw her on the field, her presence commanding, every movement precise and powerful. She had been a force of nature, outmaneuvering opponents with a skill and grace that left everyone watching in awe. Even then, Miguel had been impressed — not just by her athletic ability, but by the fierce determination in her eyes, the way she seemed to pour every ounce of herself into the game.

But that was before everything changed. Before her father died.

Miguel's thoughts drifted to that time, the period when Jieun had suddenly stopped playing soccer.

She never talked about it, never explained why she walked away from something she had loved so deeply. It was as if a part of her had shut down, a door closed and locked, and she had thrown away the key.

He never pushed her to explain, sensing that whatever had driven her decision was tied to the grief that had enveloped her after her father's death. It was a wound too raw to be touched, so he respected her silence, even as he quietly mourned the loss of the vibrant soccer star she had once been.

Now, as he stood beside her, Miguel couldn't help but wonder how different things might have been if her father hadn't died. Would Jieun still be that unstoppable soccer player, the one with dreams of college scholarships and a future on the national team? Would she be applying to schools with full-ride scholarships, her talent on the field propelling her to new heights?

And what about their friendship? Would they have grown as close as they were now, or would the soccer field have consumed all her time, leaving little room for the bond they had built through karate?

Would she and Robby have found each other, their relationship blossoming out of shared experiences and mutual respect? Or would they have remained distant, their paths never crossing in the same way?

He thought, too, of Tory, her best friend — another connection forged in the crucible of loss and shared struggle. If her father had lived, would Jieun have even met Tory? Would she have needed the dojo, the outlet that had become her new home, her sanctuary? The what-ifs spun in Miguel's mind, each one leading to a different version of Jieun, a different life she might have led.

But as he glanced over at her, Miguel realized that these were just imaginings, fragments of a reality that never came to pass. The Jieun standing beside him now was the result of everything she had been through — the triumphs and the heartbreaks, the victories and the losses.

She wasn't the soccer star anymore, but she had become something else, something just as strong, just as remarkable. And though he couldn't help but wonder about the paths not taken, Miguel knew that the person she was now, the person he cared for, was shaped by the choices she had made, even the painful ones.

There was a deep respect in Miguel for Jieun's resilience, for the way she had navigated her life's challenges. He couldn't imagine her any other way, even as he quietly acknowledged the loss of the dream she once held so dear. Whatever lay ahead for her, he knew she would face it with the same determination and strength that had defined her from the start. And as her friend, he would be there to support her, just as she had supported him, no matter what choices she made.

"Jiji," he began gently, breaking the silence. "Have you ever thought about playing soccer again?"

She looked at him, surprised by the question as if it had caught her off guard. "I don't know," she replied, her voice soft and uncertain. "It's been so long. I'm not even sure if I'm the same person who used to play."

"Maybe not," Miguel admitted, "but that doesn't mean you can't still love it. You were incredible. Hell, your nickname was Mighty Mouse. I've never seen anyone play like you did."

She smiled faintly, a mix of fondness and sadness crossing her features. "It was a different time. Soccer was everything to me back then, but now..."

Miguel stepped closer, his tone gentle but insistent. "You're still that person, Jiji. Maybe you've changed, grown even, but the passion you had for soccer — that's still inside you. I can see it."

Jieun looked down at her hands as if searching for something within herself. "It's hard to go back to something that reminds me so much of a time when I had him in my life," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "Every time I think about soccer, I think about my dad. And it hurts."

Miguel's heart ached for her. He reached out, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "I'm not saying it'll be easy. But maybe, just maybe, playing again could be a way to honor him. To keep a part of him alive through something you loved."

She looked up at him, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "You really think so?"

"I do," he said with conviction. "Your dad wouldn't want you to give up on something you love just because it hurts. He'd want you to find joy in it again, to use that passion to push forward. And maybe, if you let it, soccer could be something that heals you, not something that holds you back."

Jieun bit her lip, clearly torn. "But what if I'm not as good as I used to be? What if I can't do it anymore?"

Miguel shook his head, his expression softening. "It's not about being the best. It's about doing something that makes you feel alive, something that connects you to a part of yourself that you've buried for too long. And if you find that you don't love it anymore, then that's okay too. But you won't know until you try."

She let out a small, shaky breath, feeling the weight of his words. "You really believe I can do that?"

"I do," he said, his voice steady. "And whatever happens, I'll be there to cheer you on."

Her lips curled into a tender smile, and she felt a warmth spread through her chest, a tiny flicker of hope that maybe, just maybe, she could find her way back to the field. "You'll cheer me on?"

He smiled back at her, the kind of smile that radiated genuine care and affection. "That's what friends are for, right?"

Jieun nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude for having someone like Miguel in her life. "Right," she whispered, the word holding a world of meaning.

As they stood there, side by side, the world seemed to hold its breath, the possibilities stretching out before them like the rays of the rising sun.

It wasn't long before the sound of footsteps crunching on the gravel drew their attention. Devon appeared first, a look of triumph on her face as she held up a flag, her chest heaving with the exertion of the challenge. Right behind her was Demetri, his expression a mixture of disbelief and pride as he too carried a flag, his breath coming in short, ragged gasps. Jieun blinked in surprise, her mind racing to catch up with what she was seeing.

Devon and Demetri had won the final two spots.

Jieun had expected Kenny and Eli to return victorious. They were formidable fighters, each with their own strengths honed through countless hours of training.

In her mind, they were the obvious choices, the ones who deserved to stand alongside the rest of them on the team. But here stood Devon and Demetri, unexpected yet undeniably determined, their victory clear in the bright morning light.

Barnes, standing tall and imposing as ever, surveyed the dojo with a sharp eye. He nodded slowly, a gesture of acknowledgment and acceptance, before addressing the group. "I give you Miyagi-Do's Team Sekai Taikai."

The declaration hung in the air, a mix of anticipation and finality. Jieun felt a strange tension in her chest as she watched Barnes begin to call out the names. The clapping started, hesitant at first, then growing louder as the students processed what had just happened.

"Miguel," Barnes called, his voice cutting through the air like a blade. Miguel stepped forward, his face a mask of calm, though Jieun knew him well enough to catch the flicker of relief in his eyes.

"Sam," Barnes continued. Sam straightened, her expression resolute, even as the weight of the moment settled on her shoulders.

"Robby," Barnes said next, and Jieun couldn't help but feel a swell of pride as Robby's name was called. He was deserving of this, every bit of it, and the way he carried himself — steady, strong, with that quiet confidence — only solidified it.

"Jiji," Barnes announced, and she stepped forward, her heart pounding in her chest. She wasn't sure if it was from the adrenaline still coursing through her veins or from the realization that this was it — this was their team.

"Tory," Barnes said, and Jieun felt a moment of connection with her best friend. They had both fought hard to be here and now they would face whatever came next together.

There was a pause, a slight hesitation before Barnes spoke again, the names feeling almost out of place given the expectations Jieun had held. "And now Devon, and Demetri."

Jieun glanced at Devon, who was still catching her breath, and Demetri, who looked as if he could hardly believe he had made it this far. There was grit in their eyes, a determination that wasn't born from natural talent but from a will to prove themselves, to be more than what others expected.

Jieun's gaze traveled back to the other students, some of whom were still in shock, others visibly disappointed. Kenny and Eli stood a bit apart, their faces blank, but Jieun could sense the frustration simmering beneath the surface. She understood it; they had been so close, and now they were forced to watch from the sidelines.

Barnes clapped his hands together, breaking the uneasy silence. "This is your team. This is who's going to represent you at the Sekai Taiki. You've all fought hard to get here, and now it's time to come together and make this work."

The students began to clap again, this time with more enthusiasm, though it was clear that some were still grappling with the unexpected outcome.

Jieun found herself clapping too, her hands moving almost mechanically as she processed what had just unfolded. She caught Robby's eye, and he gave her a small, reassuring smile, one that helped to ground her in the present moment.

𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑'𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄

IM FINALLY ON THE LAST EP

and its gonna be a tough one to write :(

also sorry for the wait!! there was a huge storm and my internet was literally down for a week and my internet provider is so slow with shit and i hate hate hate writing on my phone like writing the prelude for my twd fic was hell on earth

but its here and 8000+ words!!

really loved writing that miguel and jiji scene, i feel like i haven't wrote about her friendly dynamics in a while.

did we like the fighting scenes ??? i wanted to focus more on her thoughts and strategies !

oh! btw!! i mentioned it already kinda but i have a walking dead fanfic up, its an oc x oc story and some of u may be thrilled to hear that dylan o'brien is the male faceclaim <3 pls check it out if u want !! honestly, it might be one of my new favorites!! and i can't wait to continue it.

much love,