chapter fifty-one:
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Arizona's body locked in place, her breath caught in her throat. She didn't need to turn around to know who it was. She'd recognize that voice anywhere.

Alexander.

Her father.

He wasn't supposed to be here. He was supposed to be in jail—she thought he was behind bars, locked away, far out of reach. But there he was, standing just behind her, a ghost she thought she'd exorcised forever.

Her hands gripped the edge of the doorway as if it were the only thing keeping her upright. The room seemed to close in, the air too thick to breathe.

"What..." Her voice cracked, barely audible. "What are you doing here?"

Alexander stepped closer, his boots heavy against the floorboards, the sound echoing like a drumbeat in her head. "I'm here for you," he said, his tone disarmingly smooth, almost soft.

Arizona whipped around, her chest heaving, anger bubbling beneath the fear. "Where's my family?" she demanded, her voice sharper now, though her hands trembled at her sides.

Alexander smirked, his cold, calculating eyes meeting hers. "They're fine," he said with an infuriating calmness. "Out at the mall, Christmas shopping. I just came to stop by and have a little chat."

Arizona's heart pounded in her ears. She wanted to scream, to run, to throw him out of the house, but she forced herself to stay rooted. Breathe in. Breathe out. Center yourself. Stay in control.

Her tone was clipped, her words deliberate. "What do you want?"

Alexander's smirk deepened, his expression a mix of mockery and persuasion. "I want to talk to you about an opportunity. You've got skills, Arizona. Talent. Potential. You've always been a fighter, and I know you've still got that fire in you." He leaned closer, his voice dropping conspiratorially. "I want you to join Cobra Kai. Be part of Kreese's team for the Sekai Taikai."

Arizona's lips parted in disbelief. She let out a sharp, bitter laugh, shaking her head. "Are you serious right now?"

Alexander's expression didn't waver. "I'm dead serious. With your abilities, you could lead them to victory. You could make history. Isn't that what you want?"

Arizona's fists clenched, her nails digging into her palms. She fought the urge to lash out, forcing herself to find her center, to focus. When she finally spoke, her voice was low, steady, but simmering with rage.

"You're delusional if you think I'd ever join Cobra Kai," she said, her words cutting like a blade. "I'm not a puppet for you or Kreese to control. I've moved on, found my peace. And if you think you can drag me back into your chaos, you're more out of touch than I thought."

Alexander's smirk faltered for a split second, but it returned quickly, his tone laced with mock pity. "So zen," he mocked, his hands gesturing lazily. "But let's see how long your little enlightenment lasts when you're standing in that ring. Winning comes at a price, Arizona. And if you go up against Cobra Kai in the Sekai Taikai, I promise you'll regret it."

Arizona took a step forward, her chin held high, her eyes burning with defiance. "Get out," she said, her voice unwavering, steel in her tone.

For a moment, they stared each other down, the tension crackling like a live wire. Finally, Alexander chuckled, shaking his head as he backed away. "Be it your way," he said, his voice dripping with menace. "But don't say I didn't warn you."

He turned and walked out, the echo of his footsteps fading as the door clicked shut behind him.

As soon as he was gone, Arizona's knees buckled, and she gripped the back of the couch to steady herself. Her breaths came in short, shallow gasps, her heart still racing.

But she refused to cry. Breathe in. Breathe out. Stay grounded. Stay strong.

She wasn't the scared little girl he used to intimidate. Not anymore.

The dojo was alive with the soft rhythm of shuffling feet and the steady sound of deep, measured breaths. Arizona, Sam, Miguel, Hawk, and Demetri were scattered across the mat, moving through their stretches in quiet synchronicity. Beams of golden morning light poured in through the wide windows, illuminating the polished wood floors and casting long, peaceful shadows. The air was warm but comfortable, carrying the familiar, grounding scent of fresh pine from the newly cleaned mats.

Arizona settled herself cross-legged on the mat, adjusting her position before sliding her legs forward into a deep stretch. Her movements were fluid, practiced, her fingers effortlessly grazing her toes. But even as her body moved with ease, her mind was elsewhere. She hadn't told anyone about the confrontation with her father the night before—she didn't want to think about it, let alone relive it by sharing.

To her left, Sam perched delicately on the mat, her ponytail swaying as she glanced around at the others. Ever the conversationalist during training, she broke the silence with a cheerful tone. "I heard Aisha got into UC Santa Cruz," she said, a wide smile spreading across her face.

Arizona's expression instantly brightened, and she straightened up, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "That's awesome!" she said, her voice full of genuine excitement. "She's gonna love it there. That school's, like, right on the beach."

Sam nodded enthusiastically, but her words seemed to hang in the air without much reaction from the others. Arizona's gaze flicked over to Miguel, who sat with his hands gripping his ankles as he bent forward into a stretch. His posture was tense, and his eyes were fixed on the floor, his usual spark noticeably dimmed.

Arizona tilted her head slightly, her brows knitting together in concern. She shifted her position to lean closer to him, her voice soft but probing. "Hey, Miguel. You heard anything from Stanford yet?"

Miguel let out a long, drawn-out sigh and shook his head, his frustration evident. "No," he muttered, his voice low. "I've been checking my email every day, but... nothing. Not even a rejection. Just radio silence."

Arizona's heart ached for him. She knew how much getting into Stanford meant to him—not just as a dream, but as a symbol of everything he'd fought for and the future he was determined to build. She reached out, placing a comforting hand on his arm and giving it a light squeeze.

"I'm sorry, Mig," she said sincerely, her voice warm and supportive. "I know how much this means to you. Hopefully, you'll hear something soon. They'd be crazy not to take you."

Miguel glanced at her, his lips twitching into a small, grateful smile. "Thanks, Ari," he murmured, though the weight of uncertainty still lingered in his eyes.

Across the mat, Hawk was lying flat on his back, stretching his arms behind his head with a practiced nonchalance. "Don't stress, man. It'll come," he said casually, though his tone carried an edge of impatience. "I mean, Demetri hasn't heard from MIT yet, so you're not alone."

Demetri, who had been mid-stretch, sat up and smirked, his tone teasing. "Actually," he said, glancing around the room, "I have."

The room went still.

Sam's eyes widened, and Arizona's jaw dropped as she straightened up fully. "Wait, what?"

Miguel snapped out of his gloom, his brows furrowing in surprise, while Hawk's arms froze mid-stretch. "What?" they both exclaimed in unison, their voices laced with disbelief.

Sam crossed her arms and grinned, clearly proud of her friend. "He got in," she said, her tone bursting with excitement for him.

Arizona clasped her hands together, her grin stretching ear to ear. "Oh my God, Demetri! That's amazing!" she exclaimed, her voice bubbling with joy.

Demetri shrugged, feigning humility as he leaned back with a smug expression. "What can I say?" he said, inspecting his nails dramatically. "I'm brilliant."

Sam chuckled and nudged him lightly with her elbow. "You worked hard. You totally deserve this."

"Yeah," Demetri said, sitting up straighter. "I mean, it's like LeBron James trying out for the Lakers. Unthinkable that they'd say no." He mimed a basketball shot, complete with a swish sound effect, his confidence lighting up the room.

Hawk snorted, dropping his arms as he muttered, "Okay, we get it, genius."

Demetri grinned, leaning toward him with a mock-innocent expression. "Especially hard to get into when you don't apply," he teased, the jab landing with perfect precision.

Hawk's face darkened, his glare sharp. "Real subtle," he shot back, sarcasm dripping from his voice.

Demetri raised his hands defensively, but his smirk remained. "Hey, just saying. You miss 100% of the shots you don't take."

Arizona sighed softly, sensing the tension brewing.

The cafeteria hummed with its usual midday chaos—students chatting, the clatter of trays, and the occasional burst of laughter from nearby tables. Arizona sat across from Miguel at their usual spot by the windows, where the sunlight cast soft, warm rays across the table. Despite the lively atmosphere, Miguel's mood was anything but bright. He was hunched over his tray, barely touching his food, his frustration palpable.

"I've been checking Stanford's website nonstop," Miguel said, breaking the heavy silence. His voice was tense, and the crease in his brow deepened. "They only accept 15% of the people they defer. Fifteen, Arizona!" He ran a hand through his hair, his movements restless.

Arizona placed her water bottle down and leaned forward, resting her arms on the table. She could feel the weight of his disappointment, and it hurt to see him so discouraged. "Fifteen percent isn't zero, Miguel," she said gently, though her tone carried an edge of firmness. "Anything you can do between now and April is only going to help your chances." She paused for emphasis, her brown eyes meeting his. "Extracurriculars are huge. Maybe even the Sekai Taikai."

Miguel sighed, his frustration bubbling just beneath the surface. "They didn't even care about the All Valley," he muttered, his tone laced with bitterness. "Why would they care about the Sekai Taikai?"

"Because it's international," Arizona countered without missing a beat. She leaned back slightly, crossing her arms as she spoke. "The All Valley is a big deal, sure, but it's still local. The Sekai Taikai is global. It's one thing to be the best in town, Miguel, but being one of the best in the world? That stands out. That looks good on a college application."

Miguel shrugged, his movements sluggish, the weight of doubt pressing down on him. "Yeah," he muttered, barely above a whisper.

Arizona frowned, her heart aching for her friend. She hesitated for a moment, searching for the right words. Finally, she spoke, her voice soft but steady. "Miguel, you can't carry the weight of rejection before it even happens. It's like trying to fight a match when the bell hasn't even rung yet. Focus on what you can control, and let the rest fall into place."

Miguel glanced at her, and for a brief moment, the tension in his face eased. There was gratitude in his eyes, but it was fleeting, replaced quickly by the lingering sting of uncertainty. "Easier said than done," he murmured, poking half-heartedly at his tray with his fork.

Before Arizona could respond, Miguel's attention shifted. His gaze locked onto the cafeteria doors, and Arizona followed his line of sight to see Robby walking in. His presence seemed to draw attention, as if he carried an unshakable air of confidence even in a room full of noise and movement.

Miguel's jaw tightened as he watched Robby make his way across the room. "It just means I'm gonna have to beat Robby again," Miguel said, his voice sharpening, frustration hardening into resolve.

Arizona raised an eyebrow, her lips pressing together as she glanced between Miguel and Robby. She wasn't sure how this rivalry would end, but she knew better than to fuel it further.

Before she could say anything, Robby approached their table, his casual stride contrasting with Miguel's tense posture. "Hey," Robby greeted, his tone relaxed, though his eyes flicked briefly between the two of them.

"Hey, Robby!" Arizona replied, her voice warm, trying to keep the mood light.

Robby gave her a nod before addressing Miguel. "Uh, have you guys seen Tory? We're supposed to train at the park later."

Miguel's expression didn't change as he leaned back slightly. "No, but I thought you were coming to the dojo to train with us," he said, his tone neutral but with an underlying edge.

"Well," Robby started, leaning casually on the edge of the table, "Tory and I figured since we're fighting each other, it'd be best not to show each other our moves. You know, keep it a surprise."

Arizona tilted her head, nodding thoughtfully. "Smart."

"Yeah, makes sense," Miguel added with a shrug, though his tone was curt.

Robby smirked, straightening up. "You better watch out, though. You're going down this time, El Serpiente," he teased, his tone playful but carrying an edge of competitive challenge.

Miguel's lips pressed into a thin line as he watched Robby walk away, his gaze narrowing into a glare. Arizona noticed the tension immediately and turned back to Miguel, giving him a pointed look.

"Don't," she said firmly, her voice cutting through his brewing frustration. "He's right. If they're training together, then so are we."

Miguel's gaze flicked back to her, and after a moment, his jaw relaxed. He nodded, determination replacing the irritation on his face. "Fine," he said simply. "Let's make sure we're ready."

Arizona nodded, her resolve matching his. They weren't just preparing for a tournament—they were preparing for a fight that carried more weight than either of them wanted to admit.

The dojo hummed with a subtle intensity as the morning sunlight streamed through the wide windows, casting golden streaks across the polished wooden floor. Johnny Lawrence stood at the head of the room, arms crossed over his chest, radiating his usual mix of unshakable confidence and rebellious energy. His sharp blue eyes swept over the group before him. Arizona and Miguel stood at the front, their postures straight and attentive, while Tory, Sam, and Robby lined up just behind them, each carrying their unique blend of focus and determination.

The air buzzed with quiet anticipation, the stillness punctuated only by the faint shuffle of feet as the teens adjusted their stances and the steady rhythm of their synchronized breathing.

Johnny took a step forward, his presence commanding as he raised his arms in a wide, deliberate arc. "Big circle. Big circle. Breathe in. Breathe out," he instructed, his voice low and firm, cutting through the room's quiet like a blade.

The teens mirrored his movements, their arms slicing through the air in unison, tracing invisible circles as they inhaled and exhaled deeply. The rhythm of their breathing created an almost meditative atmosphere, grounding the group in a rare moment of calm.

Arizona closed her eyes, letting the motion and breath steady her. Her muscles loosened, tension ebbing away as she fell into the rhythm. Beside her, Miguel followed suit, his jaw unclenching as his movements became fluid and precise. For a brief moment, the dojo felt more like Miyagi-Do, its focus on balance, control, and inner peace.

And then, Johnny shattered it.

"ELBOW TO THE FACE!" he bellowed, his voice sharp and booming, shattering the serenity like glass.

Arizona's eyes flew open, her head snapping toward Johnny as he shifted into a fighting stance, his arm cocked and ready to deliver a sharp elbow.

"PUNCH IN THE THROAT!" he barked, his movements explosive as he demonstrated. "LIFT HIM UP AND SLAM HIS ASS INTO THE GROUND!"

The sudden change in tone was so absurd that Arizona had to fight to keep a straight face. She quickly reset her stance and mimicked Johnny's movements, throwing an exaggerated elbow, followed by a sharp punch, and ending with a mock lifting motion.

Miguel caught her side glance and smirked, his lips twitching in amusement, but he kept his focus, executing the sequence with precision. Behind them, Tory and Robby attacked their invisible opponents with fiery intensity, while Sam, more measured in her movements, followed along with a determination that mirrored her own focused personality.

Johnny wasn't done. "KICK TO THE GUT! BLOCK HIS STRIKE! GRAB HIS NUTS—TWIST, TWIST, TWIST!"

Arizona froze mid-movement, a shocked laugh bubbling up in her chest. She clapped a hand over her mouth, shoulders shaking as she tried—and failed—to suppress her amusement. A quick glance at Miguel revealed he was biting the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing, his eyes sparkling with barely contained mirth.

Before anyone could recover, the dojo door opened, and Daniel LaRusso stepped inside. He froze in his tracks, his eyes widening as he took in the scene before him: Johnny enthusiastically barking orders, his students miming nut-grabs with startling commitment.

"Uh...what the hell is going on here?" Daniel asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.

Johnny, oblivious to the incredulous look on Daniel's face, grinned proudly. "Teaching them how to win, LaRusso!" he replied, clapping his hands together. "Alright, everyone, take a seat!"

The teens dropped to the mats, exchanging amused glances as Johnny disappeared for a moment, only to return dragging an old coffee table with a battered TV balanced precariously on top.

"Alright," Johnny announced dramatically, gesturing toward the TV. "Close your eyes. Clear your minds."

Arizona shut her eyes, but her lips twitched with a knowing smile as she listened to Johnny fumble with the ancient piece of equipment. There was a faint grunt, a loud slap against the side of the TV, and a colorful string of curses.

"C'mon, you piece of crap..."

Miguel coughed to cover a laugh, while Tory rolled her eyes, muttering, "Classic Johnny."

Finally, the crackling sound of a martial arts movie broke through the chaos.

"Got it!" Johnny declared triumphantly. "Open your eyes!"

Arizona opened hers to see Best of the Best flickering on the screen. She recognized the movie instantly and had to bite her lip to keep from laughing outright.

"Here comes the good part," Johnny said, his tone filled with childlike excitement as he gestured toward the screen.

The room fell into silence as the movie played. When the action exploded into a dramatic fight sequence, Johnny pumped his fist in the air. "Hell yeah!" he shouted.

Turning back to the group, his expression became deadly serious. "That's Alex Grady. Shoulder completely busted in the first movie. Second movie? Miraculously healed." He jabbed a finger at his chest. "Believe in yourselves, and you can be like Eric Roberts, too."

Arizona exchanged a glance with Miguel, her eyes dancing with amusement. The others nodded solemnly, their faces blank masks of forced inspiration.

Clapping his hands, Johnny broke the moment. "Enough inspiration! Outside, let's go!"

The group filed into the backyard, the morning air cool and crisp. Arizona couldn't help but grin to herself. Only Johnny Lawrence could turn a breathing exercise into a nut-twisting self-defense class, follow it up with a cheesy martial arts movie, and somehow make it all work.

The backyard was alive with anticipation as Johnny Lawrence led Arizona, Sam, Robby, Tory, and Miguel toward the far corner where a battered training dummy waited like a silent challenge. The late afternoon sun cast long, golden rays across the yard, highlighting the subtle tension in the group. While the setting could have been peaceful, Johnny's electric energy filled the air, ensuring that tranquility had no place here.

Inside the dojo, Daniel LaRusso stood just out of sight, arms crossed, his expression a blend of wariness and resignation. He'd left the other students practicing kata indoors, but the unshakable feeling that Johnny was up to no good had drawn him to the doorway. Peering outside, Daniel watched Johnny dig through a duffle bag with an enthusiasm that practically screamed trouble.

With a triumphant flourish, Johnny whipped out a chaotic assortment of items: a t-shirt emblazoned with the French flag, a black beret, and a thick marker. Arizona raised an eyebrow, exchanging a knowing glance with Miguel, whose lips twitched as he struggled not to laugh. Tory smirked faintly, while Robby and Sam seemed caught between bemusement and skepticism.

Johnny held the beret aloft like it was some kind of holy relic. "Alright, listen up!" he barked. "Mr. Miyagi fought for America. You're gonna do the same. We're starting with the French!"

With dramatic precision, Johnny began scrawling an exaggerated mustache onto the dummy's face. "Voila!" he declared, stepping back to admire his handiwork. "Who's up first? Arizona! Get over here."

Arizona sighed but stepped forward, rolling her shoulders as she positioned herself in front of the dummy. She launched into a series of strikes—sharp punches, forceful elbows, and swift kicks—each one landing with precision. The dummy rocked on its base as her blows connected, but Johnny, never one to keep things simple, was already switching gears.

He ripped off the French attire and replaced it with a t-shirt displaying the Chinese flag. "Diaz, your turn!" he announced, grinning like a kid in a candy store. Miguel stepped forward and executed his strikes with practiced precision, his movements controlled and deliberate.

Johnny nodded approvingly but immediately shifted his attention to the others. "Alright, next! And listen up—foreign kids don't speak English, but they do speak karate! So kick harder, punch faster, and show no mercy!"

From the doorway, Daniel's frown deepened, but before he could step in, Johnny had swapped the dummy's outfit again—this time for a shirt sporting a Canadian flag and a beanie. Tory stepped up, unleashing a storm of kicks and punches that left the dummy wobbling violently.

By the time Johnny had dressed the dummy in a Soviet Union-themed shirt, Arizona couldn't hold back her sarcasm any longer. "You know the Soviet Union doesn't exist anymore, right?"

"Quiet!" Johnny barked, waving her off with a dismissive hand.

But before anyone could protest further, Johnny's eyes lit up as they landed on the koi pond. Without a word, he strode toward the water's edge, the teens following reluctantly. They quickly noticed the rickety balance board floating in the middle and—more ominously—the old pitching machine Johnny had wheeled over with him.

"What is he doing?" Sam whispered, leaning toward Arizona, who could only shrug.

Johnny turned, his grin wide. "Alright, listen up! Balance is the foundation of Miyagi-Do. You lose it, you're toast. Wu—sorry, Arizona—you're up first! Get on that board!"

Arizona groaned but waded into the cold water, muttering under her breath about the absurdity of the exercise. She climbed onto the board, her arms flailing briefly before she found her footing.

"Balance is key!" Johnny announced, cracking open a Coors Banquet like he was about to deliver some profound wisdom. "You gotta stay on your feet no matter what life throws at you. Speaking of..."

Without warning, he loaded the empty beer bottle into the pitching machine.

"Wait—what are you doing?" Arizona asked, her voice tinged with alarm.

The machine whirred ominously, and before she could react, the bottle shot out, narrowly missing her shoulder and splashing into the pond behind her.

"ARE YOU SERIOUS?" Arizona shouted, glaring at Johnny.

"That's the spirit! Now dodge the next one!" he yelled back, loading another bottle.

Arizona's reflexes kicked in as the second bottle came flying toward her. She swatted it away with her palm, sending it spinning into the water. Her hand stung from the impact, but she couldn't suppress a grin of disbelief. "This is insane!"

"Insane is my middle name!" Johnny retorted, already aiming at Sam, who hesitantly stepped onto the board next.

One by one, the others took their turns, each facing a volley of flying bottles. Tory, naturally aggressive, slapped them out of the air with force, muttering curses under her breath. Robby focused on dodging entirely, his balance impeccable as he avoided every projectile. Miguel, ever the showman, caught one of the bottles mid-flight, earning a groan from Johnny.

"Don't catch it, Diaz! Dodge it!" Johnny barked. "This isn't a circus!"

From the sidelines, Arizona stood dripping and shaking her head. "This is nuts," she muttered to Miguel, who flashed her a grin.

Meanwhile, Daniel, still watching from the doorway, looked ready to step in but ultimately held back. Despite himself, he couldn't deny the teens were learning something—though he wasn't entirely sure what.

Only Johnny Lawrence, Arizona thought as she wrung out her shirt, could turn a simple balance exercise into a chaotic spectacle involving beer bottles, national flags, and life-or-death reflexes. And somehow, against all odds, it worked.

The sun hung low in the sky, bathing Miyagi-Do in a warm golden glow as the sparring deck buzzed with energy. Arizona stood at the edge of the mat, her palms damp with sweat and her heart pounding in anticipation. This match would determine the dojo's new female captain—a role she had been preparing for, dreaming of. She rolled her shoulders, bouncing lightly on the balls of her feet to shake off the nerves.

Her focus had been locked on Tory. She was the one Arizona had mentally prepared to face, the inevitable opponent given their fiery history and Tory's fierce skill. But as her gaze swept the crowd of students and senseis, her brow furrowed.

"Where's Tory?" she asked, her voice breaking the tense silence.

Robby, standing nearby as he adjusted his wrist guards, glanced at her and shrugged. "I don't know," he admitted, his brow creasing in concern. "I tried talking to her yesterday, but she hasn't been responding." His tone carried a note of unease, one that Arizona couldn't ignore. She knew how much Robby cared about Tory—even if their relationship was tangled and complicated.

A flicker of worry tugged at Arizona, but she forced it down. This wasn't the time to get distracted. Smiling softly, she gave Robby's arm a reassuring squeeze. "Good luck out there," she said.

Robby returned her smile, his usual confidence creeping back into his expression. "Thanks. You too."

As Robby stepped onto the mat to face Miguel, Arizona turned toward her boyfriend. Miguel met her gaze with his signature warm smile, and she couldn't help but grin back. They performed their secret handshake, the playful series of slaps and fist bumps a comfort before the match.

When the handshake ended, Arizona leaned in to kiss his cheek. "Good luck," she whispered.

Miguel raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Didn't you just say that to Robby?"

Arizona rolled her eyes and gave him a light shove. "He's my friend. You're my boyfriend. I can root for both of you."

Miguel chuckled, shaking his head. "Fair enough." His demeanor shifted as he stepped onto the mat, his body language exuding focus and determination.

Arizona retreated to the sidelines, her pulse quickening as the two boys squared off. Daniel stepped into the center of the mat, his face serious as he glanced between the competitors. After a moment, he stepped aside.

"Fight!" Johnny's booming voice cut through the stillness, setting the match in motion.

Miguel struck first, his movements fast and precise. Arizona's breath hitched as he swept Robby's legs out from under him with a clean motion, sending him crashing to the mat. Miguel followed up with a swift punch to Robby's midsection.

"Point, Diaz!" Daniel called, raising his hand.

Arizona winced, her fingers nervously picking at the hem of her shirt. Robby pushed himself back to his feet, his jaw tight with frustration.

"One point, Diaz. Zero points, Keene. Ready? Fight!" Johnny's voice rang out again.

Robby charged this time, spinning into a high kick aimed at Miguel's head. Miguel narrowly dodged, countering with a punch that Robby blocked. But Miguel quickly landed a clean kick to Robby's chest.

"Point, Diaz! Two points," Daniel announced.

Arizona bit her lip, her eyes darting between the two fighters. Robby seemed off his game, and she couldn't pinpoint why—until she noticed his gaze shift past Miguel. Following his line of sight, Arizona turned to see Tory entering the dojo.

Her heart sank. Tory looked different—disheveled and worn, her eyes red and puffy. She moved with uncharacteristic stiffness, her usual fire dimmed.

"Tory, are you okay?" Arizona asked softly as Tory drew closer.

Tory didn't respond. Her gaze flickered over the dojo, but she seemed far away, trapped in her own thoughts.

Before Arizona could press further, Johnny's voice barked, yanking her attention back to the mat.

"Ready? Fight!"

Robby snapped back into focus, his stance sharpening. This time, he was solid, blocking Miguel's attacks with precision. When Miguel attempted another leg sweep, Robby flipped over him with startling agility, drawing gasps from the crowd.

"Point, Keene. Two to one," Daniel called.

Arizona clapped, her tension easing slightly. Robby was back in the fight.

The final round was intense. Both fighters pushed themselves to their limits, each move faster and sharper than the last. Miguel backed Robby to the edge of the mat, but Robby recovered, landing a powerful spin kick to Miguel's face.

"Point. Winner!" Daniel declared, raising Robby's arm in victory as the dojo erupted into cheers.

Arizona joined the applause, proud of Robby but quick to glance at Miguel. He stood, catching his breath, his expression a mix of disappointment and respect. The two boys exchanged a fist bump, the tension between them dissipating.

As Miguel stepped off the mat, Arizona greeted him with a quick kiss. "I'm sorry you didn't win captain."

Miguel shrugged, his smile easy. "It's fine. Now go win captain for me."

Arizona nodded, her determination renewed as she stepped forward. The moment she had been waiting for was here. Tory, despite her troubled appearance, was waiting on the mat, ready for their match.

Arizona stepped onto the sparring deck, her heart thudding in her chest like a drum. Across from her, Tory stood, fists clenched, her jaw set in a defiant scowl. The tension between them was palpable, almost suffocating. Arizona swallowed hard, forcing herself to smile softly, though the air felt too heavy to carry even that small gesture.

She raised her fist in the old Cobra Kai handshake, a move that once symbolized trust and solidarity between them. "May the best one win," she said, her voice light, attempting to diffuse the charged atmosphere with a hint of humor.

Tory's gaze flicked to Arizona's outstretched hand, hesitation flashing in her eyes. For a moment, it felt as though the distance between them was insurmountable. Arizona's smile faltered slightly, her hand trembling as she began to lower it. Just as doubt started to creep in, Tory let out a heavy sigh and met her fist with her own, though the motion was stiff, almost mechanical. The connection they once had felt distant, fractured.

"Fighting positions!" Daniel Alvarez's sharp voice cut through the tension like a knife, pulling both girls out of the awkward moment. Arizona stepped back, raising her fists, her body taut with anticipation. Across from her, Tory's face twisted in barely contained fury.

"Fight!" Daniel's voice rang out, and before Arizona could even process it, Tory lunged forward with a primal scream, her kick slicing through the air toward Arizona's face. Instinct kicked in, and Arizona ducked, feeling the rush of air as Tory's foot barely missed her. She scrambled to regain her footing as Tory pressed forward, unleashing a barrage of punches.

Arizona's arms flew up in defense, blocking the strikes as best she could, though each hit grew harder and wilder. Her breaths came in ragged gasps, and her muscles screamed in protest as she dodged and countered, desperately trying to stay on her feet.

Suddenly, Tory launched a sweeping kick aimed at Arizona's head. In a flash, Arizona dropped low, her instincts taking over. She swept her leg out, knocking Tory off balance, and sprang up to deliver a quick punch to her stomach.

"Point, Alvarez!" Johnny's voice rang out from the sidelines.

Tory's expression darkened, her frustration palpable as she slammed her fists against the mat before standing. Arizona stepped back, her eyes never leaving Tory, who began pacing like a caged animal. The anger radiating from her was almost tangible, and it sent a chill down Arizona's spine.

"Tory, are you okay?" Arizona asked cautiously, her voice laced with genuine concern. She'd thought they were past this, that they could rebuild the bridge between them. But the look in Tory's eyes made her doubt everything.

Tory didn't answer, her gaze distant and filled with something Arizona couldn't quite place. Johnny raised his hand to restart the fight, but Tory didn't wait for the signal. She charged again, her strikes more relentless and furious than before.

Arizona struggled to keep up, her movements growing slower as exhaustion crept in. Every block felt heavier, every dodge more desperate. Tory's eyes blazed with unrelenting fury, and Arizona's chest tightened. This wasn't just a sparring match anymore—Tory was fighting something much deeper.

With a fierce yell, Tory's foot connected with Arizona's side, sending her sprawling to the mat. Pain exploded in her ribs, and her neck slammed against the hard surface. Arizona gasped for air, blinking against the pain as her vision swam. Through the haze, she saw Tory standing over her, eyes cold and unyielding.

"Arizona?" Daniel's concerned voice broke through the fog. She blinked, forcing herself to focus, and nodded weakly.

"I'm fine," she lied, her voice trembling as she pushed herself up. Every part of her body protested, but she wouldn't give Tory the satisfaction of seeing her falter.

Daniel's face tightened, his jaw clenching as he turned to Tory. "That should be no point—"

"Stop!" Arizona cut him off, her voice firm despite the pain. "It's fine. I'm okay." Her words were more for Tory than anyone else, a desperate attempt to keep the situation from escalating further.

Daniel hesitated, then reluctantly nodded to Johnny, who raised his hand. "Warning, Nichols. Next time, it's a deduction."

Tory barely reacted, her gaze fixed on Arizona with a fire that hadn't dimmed. Arizona's heart ached as she watched her friend, the distance between them growing more unbearable with every passing second.

"Ready? Fight!" Johnny called, and Tory exploded forward once again.

This time, Arizona knew she couldn't keep defending. Tory's anger was too wild, her strikes too relentless. Arizona dodged a punch and grabbed Tory's arm, spinning her around and sending her stumbling. She followed up with a sharp kick to Tory's stomach.

"Point, Alvarez! Two to one!" Johnny called, but the relief Arizona felt was fleeting. Tory's eyes burned with renewed intensity, and Arizona braced herself for the next onslaught.

As Johnny signaled the match to continue, Tory lunged again, her movements more erratic. She grabbed Arizona by the arm, throwing her to the mat with a force that left her dazed. Tory stood over her, poised to strike, but Daniel stepped in, grabbing her wrist to stop her.

"The fight's over," Daniel said firmly, his voice heavy with disappointment.

Tory's chest heaved as she glared at him. "That's not fair! I had her!" she protested, her voice cracking with emotion.

Daniel shook his head. "We're done here. This isn't the time or place."

Arizona's heart twisted as she saw tears welling in Tory's eyes. "Tory, what's going on?" she asked softly, but Tory flinched, pulling away from her.

Arizona stood in the dojo, her heart pounding in her chest. The air felt thick, each breath labored as she tried to block out everything happening around her. Sam stood opposite her, her expression one of determination, while Arizona struggled to focus. She glanced around the room, the faces watching her—her sensei, Johnny, Daniel, and Miguel—were blurred in her peripheral vision. Her mind was elsewhere, trapped in a whirlwind of doubt and lingering fear.

It wasn't the fight that worried her, though. It was the words.

Alexander's voice echoed in her mind, cold and merciless, like a warning that she couldn't escape. "But let's see how long your little enlightenment lasts when you're standing in that ring. Winning comes at a price, Arizona. And if you go up against Cobra Kai in the Sekai Taikai, I promise you'll regret it."

Her father's words wrapped around her like a suffocating cloud. Arizona tried to shake them off, but they lingered, gnawing at her, clouding her thoughts. She knew what he meant. She knew the pain that came with the type of success he demanded—how his harsh, calculating nature had shaped her life for years. He didn't care about her spirit, her enlightenment, or the inner peace she'd been trying to find. All he cared about was winning. The idea of losing, of showing weakness, was something he couldn't tolerate.

What if he's right? The thought was quick, sharp, cutting through her resolve. What if this is just a game? What if I can't keep up?

The fight started, but Arizona couldn't shake the tension from her body. Sam wasted no time, moving in with a lightning-fast jab to Arizona's chest. Arizona barely managed to sidestep, her movements sluggish and hesitant. She felt it—the hesitation—deep inside. A sharp pang of doubt gnawed at her every decision.

She was stronger than this. She had to be.

But Sam was relentless. Her strikes came like a wave crashing against Arizona's defenses. Arizona blocked a punch, but the impact vibrated through her arm, her body still not fully aligned. She countered with a low sweep kick, but Sam was already a step ahead, dodging it easily and landing a quick elbow to Arizona's side. The pain shot through her, but it wasn't the physical hurt that distracted her—it was the relentless presence of her father's words, still echoing in her mind.

"Winning comes at a price..."

Arizona felt the weight of it pressing down on her chest, her breath quickening. She swung back, but her strike was wild, unfocused. Sam took advantage of the opening, slamming a clean punch to her stomach, knocking the air from Arizona's lungs. She stumbled back, her mind clouded, but the world seemed to slow for just a moment as she struggled to breathe, her thoughts racing.

What does he want from me?

She stepped forward, trying to regain control, but her movements felt stiff, like she was fighting through quicksand. Her mind kept circling back to her father's threat, to the idea of Cobra Kai, of failure. What if I'm not good enough?

Sam didn't hesitate. She was on top of her in an instant, grabbing Arizona's arm and twisting it behind her back in a swift motion that sent pain shooting through her shoulder. Arizona bit back a gasp, her body seizing in response, but she fought against the hold, trying to free herself.

You can do this, Arizona, she told herself. Focus. Don't let him win. Don't let him control you. Don't let him make you believe you're not enough.

But it was hard. Harder than it had ever been. The words were so loud in her head now, drowning out everything else. Arizona's resolve weakened just for a moment. That was all it took for Sam to land another blow, sending Arizona crashing to the mat.

A wave of dizziness washed over her as she lay there, staring up at the ceiling. The noise around her faded into a distant hum. She heard Miguel's voice, faint and distant, calling her name, but it felt like she was underwater, disconnected from everything.

She didn't get up immediately. Her chest rose and fell with shaky breaths, her body aching, but her mind was still trapped in the cage her father had built for her. His voice lingered like a toxin, a constant reminder that nothing mattered unless you won.

Sam stood over her, her chest rising and falling with exertion, but Arizona could see the concern in her eyes now. She wasn't just an opponent. She was a person. But Arizona wasn't sure she could see past the fog in her own mind.

It was then that she heard it again—her father's voice. "If you go up against Cobra Kai in the Sekai Taikai, I promise you'll regret it."

The weight of his words crushed her chest, stealing her breath for a moment. She pushed herself up from the mat slowly, each movement feeling like it took everything from her. When she finally made it to her feet, she looked Sam in the eyes, and the understanding that passed between them was palpable. Sam had won. Arizona had lost.

Her throat tightened. She couldn't even bring herself to speak, to offer the words of congratulations that would have been the right thing to do. She was fighting something bigger than this moment, something much harder to defeat than a single opponent in a dojo.

The room felt like it was closing in around her. She turned away, her body trembling with a mix of exhaustion and frustration. Miguel was already there, arms around her in an instant, steady and warm. He didn't say anything at first, just held her, grounding her in the present.

"I'm sorry, Ari," he whispered, his voice calm and steady. His hand ran gently over her back, comforting her in the way only he knew how.

Arizona pressed her face into his shoulder, letting the emotions she had bottled up escape in silent sobs. She had lost. She had failed, and the weight of that failure was heavier than any pain she had ever known. But then, she heard herself say it, the words spilling from her before she could stop them.

"Robby and Sam are the captains now," she murmured, her voice hollow, carrying the sting of defeat. "I couldn't... I couldn't do it. Not this time."

Miguel didn't pull away. He tightened his hold on her, his voice steady but filled with quiet conviction. "Ari, listen to me. You don't have to be the one in charge to be strong. You've got a strength that comes from something deeper than any title."

Arizona pulled back slightly, looking at him through tear-filled eyes. She felt drained, but something about his words resonated deep inside. There was truth in them, something she hadn't fully realized until now.

"Maybe... maybe being a leader isn't about winning every fight," she said softly, the words slipping out almost naturally. "Maybe it's about knowing when to fight, when to step back, and... finding balance. Being zen. Knowing that you can lose the battle and still be whole."

Miguel smiled, his eyes warm with understanding. "Exactly. We should be captains, Ari. Together. Not because we need to fight to be the best, but because we understand what it really means to lead."

Her heart fluttered at his words. It wasn't about winning or losing. It was about standing together. Arizona closed her eyes, drawing in a deep breath, feeling a sense of calm begin to settle over her. She wasn't defined by her father's cruel expectations, nor was she defined by this fight. She was something more than that.

Together, they could be captains. Not because they had to be, but because they understood what it meant to be leaders—not just in the dojo, but in life. And for the first time in a long time, Arizona felt the weight on her shoulders lighten.

"Gather around, please!" Daniel's voice rang out, firm yet warm, carrying across the dojo with authority. The sound of his call echoed off the walls, making the floorboards seem to vibrate underfoot. Every student in the room froze, their attention immediately captured. The murmur of conversations died down, and an air of eager anticipation filled the space. Arizona could feel it in her bones—the shift in energy, the rising tension that buzzed just beneath the surface.

As Daniel and Johnny made their way to the sparring deck, the room seemed to shift, a subtle, collective breath held by every student present. They could sense something important was coming, something that would shape the next phase of their training. The air was thick with expectation, and Arizona felt the weight of it pressing against her chest. The top five students—those who had been selected to represent Miyagi-Do at the Sekai Takai—lined up in front of their teachers, their postures straight, their expressions a mix of pride and nervousness. The rest of the class, standing just behind them, were more than just bystanders; they were invested in the moment, watching closely, their eyes fixed on the front, absorbing every word, every gesture.

Daniel's eyes swept across the group, a soft smile tugging at the corner of his lips. Arizona saw the pride in his gaze, the way he looked at each of them as if they had all earned a place in that room, regardless of whether they would be traveling to Barcelona or staying behind. He paused, letting the silence stretch for a moment, allowing the gravity of the situation to sink in.

"Training for the Sekai Takai has been hard on all of us," Daniel began, his voice steady but infused with genuine appreciation. Arizona could hear the gratitude in his words as he scanned the room, meeting the eyes of each student. There was a warmth there, a recognition of the sweat and sacrifice they had all put in. "But now, training is over. While most of you won't be going to Barcelona, we know you'll be there with us in spirit."

A brief but powerful silence fell over the room, the weight of Daniel's words settling over them like a blanket. It wasn't just a recognition of the work done—it was an acknowledgment of the family they had built, the way they had all come together to support one another. Arizona's chest swelled with a mixture of pride and bittersweetness, her heart heavy with the knowledge that this moment was special, no matter where they stood in relation to the trip.

A low murmur of approval rippled through the students, some nodding, others smiling, the unspoken bond between them stronger than ever.

Johnny, standing next to Daniel, his face set in a solemn expression, nodded slightly before stepping forward. He cleared his throat, his voice rough but steady. "Since Tory will not be going with us..." He paused, and for a heartbeat, the room seemed to freeze. The absence of Tory, who had been a key part of their training, was something that weighed heavily on everyone. Johnny's words carried the weight of that loss—of a teammate who had been pivotal, whose presence had been felt in every lesson, every sparring match.

The room held its breath, waiting for the next word. "We've decided Hawk will take her spot."

Arizona's heart skipped a beat. She couldn't help herself—she spun around, her hands clapping above her head in uncontained excitement. A cheer started building in her chest, and before she could stop herself, she was shouting, "Yes! Yes, Eli!" Her voice rang out, full of support and admiration.

Eli, who had been standing at the edge of the line, momentarily looked surprised by the outburst. His expression shifted quickly to one of joy, and then to pure, unadulterated pride. His lips curved into a wide grin, and in that moment, the entire room seemed to burst into cheers. The applause was immediate, loud, and sincere—echoing across the dojo in a symphony of approval.

Laughter bubbled up from the students as Eli moved forward, his steps purposeful now, his usual swagger magnified by the sheer excitement of the moment. His eyes twinkled, his face beaming as he made his way to the front. Arizona watched him, her heart swelling. She had seen him grow so much over the past few months, from the guy who had struggled with his confidence to the one now standing proudly in front of them, ready to take on this new responsibility.

As Eli passed Arizona, she gave him a quick nudge with her shoulder, her grin wide and full of admiration. "You've earned this, Hawk," she said softly, her voice full of sincerity. Eli glanced at her, a flicker of gratitude in his eyes before he took his place in the line.

The room was alive with clapping, the sound of students celebrating his achievement, and Eli's chest puffed out with pride. Arizona couldn't stop smiling as she gave him a thumbs up, her heart lifting with happiness for him. They had all worked hard, and this moment felt like the culmination of their shared journey.

Daniel gave the room a moment to settle before stepping forward, his expression turning serious once more. The applause died down, the excitement still lingering in the air but now tempered by the gravity of what was coming next. "You seven will be fighting for Miyagi-Do," Daniel said, his voice carrying a weight that silenced any lingering chatter. His gaze swept over each of the selected students, and Arizona could feel the full weight of his words pressing down on her. "It will be the toughest challenge you've faced yet. And to win, we're all gonna need to be there for each other, no matter what. This is bigger than just one fight—it's about representing everything Miyagi-Do stands for."

Johnny, always direct, added with a sharp nod, "Captains, step forward." He raised his hand, signaling for the two chosen captains to step forward. There was no hesitation. Belle, her heart pounding in her chest, moved eagerly, almost instinctively, stepping forward to join the others at the front. Her pulse raced with a mixture of nerves and excitement—this was it. This was what they had been working for. She turned her gaze to Robby, who was already moving to the front, his expression one of fierce determination.

Their eyes met for a brief moment, and the exchange between them was enough to speak volumes. They were ready. Together, they would lead.

As Sam and Robby stood before them, Daniel's eyes flickered to the back of the room, where Chris stood in the shadows. His face was serious, his posture rigid, his expression unreadable. "Chris, bring up the official Sekai Takai captain headbands," Daniel called, his voice carrying the authority that only he could summon.

Chris hesitated for only a second before moving forward. His steps were determined, purposeful, though there was a slight awkwardness to his movements, as if the gravity of the situation had just hit him. In his hands, he held a small, sleek case that gleamed under the dojo lights—a symbol of the responsibility about to be passed on.

Arizona's eyes followed Chris as he approached, but as he reached the front, she found herself looking away. She couldn't bear to watch. Not yet. It should have been her, standing there next to Miguel, sharing this moment with him. They had both worked so hard—fought for every inch, every breath, every step. But she knew this moment wasn't hers. She hadn't earned it in the way Robby and Sam had.

Her heart ached, but she took a deep breath and focused. This wasn't the end of her journey. It couldn't be. Not when there was so much left to prove, so much left to fight for.

With a heavy sigh, Arizona closed her eyes for a moment, steadying herself. She couldn't change the outcome now. But she could keep fighting. She could keep pushing forward, just as she always had. Even if the title of captain wasn't hers to claim this time.

After what felt like an eternity, the team finally stepped off the plane, the weight of their long, exhausting flight lingering in their tired limbs. The air in Barcelona felt thick with the excitement of the Sekai Taikai, a palpable energy that hummed through the streets. They were standing in the shadow of the towering arena, a massive structure that loomed like a colossus, an unyielding testament to the competition ahead. The stone and steel walls stretched toward the sky, almost mocking them with the enormity of what they had yet to face. Arizona trailed behind the group, her steps slower than the rest, as her mind wrestled with an overwhelming weight she couldn't shake. Her eyes flicked over the bustling streets, yet she wasn't truly seeing anything around her. Her thoughts, heavy and tangled, anchored her to the ground.

Her father's face loomed in her memory, sharp and cold with his last words echoing through her mind. You'll regret this. Stay out of trouble. This is your last warning. The bile of his threat curdled in her stomach. She couldn't shake the feeling of dread that he might be watching her every move, a silent, ever-present shadow. But it wasn't just him—Tory's face kept creeping into her thoughts. The fight, their final exchange before she had stormed off, the unresolved anger and betrayal that clung to their every word, to their every breath. Arizona couldn't stop thinking about it. She had tried to leave it behind, to focus on the task ahead, but the ache of their strained friendship gnawed at her.

And then there was the unresolved tension, the anger and confusion swirling around the fight with Tory. Arizona's hands clenched into fists at her sides as her heart tightened, replaying the words, the hurt, the desperation in Tory's eyes as she begged to be understood. She had wanted to help her, to make it right, but she couldn't. They were on different sides now. She couldn't be the one to fix everything.

Suddenly, she felt a light tap on her shoulder. A voice, warm and familiar, broke through the haze of her thoughts.

"Ari?"

Arizona looked up to find Miguel at her side, his eyes narrowed with concern. He slowed his pace to match hers, his expression full of care. Without thinking, Arizona reached for his hand, instinctively intertwining her fingers with his. The warmth of his touch grounded her, pulling her back from the edge of her spiraling thoughts. She felt the weight on her chest lighten just a little.

"You okay?" Miguel's voice was soft, but she could hear the edge of worry beneath it. He gave her a sideways glance, his brow furrowed as they walked toward the entrance of the arena. The sounds of the competition around them—the clattering of weapons, the voices of competitors warming up—faded to a dull hum. Arizona hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to explain the knot in her stomach, but she forced a smile, brushing off his concern.

"Yeah, I'm just worried about—" she started, but Miguel's gaze suddenly shifted. His eyes widened, his footsteps faltering as he stopped in his tracks. Arizona's heart stuttered in her chest as she followed his gaze, her stomach sinking as she realized something was wrong. Miguel's face had drained of color, and the hand she was holding tightened, his grip almost painful as he looked ahead, his voice barely a whisper.

"Tory?"

Arizona froze, her heart leaping into her throat. She turned slowly, her stomach dropping as she scanned the crowd. The noise of the arena seemed to fade away, the air around her growing thick with a sudden, unexplainable tension. And then she saw her. Tory. Standing at the front of the South Korean Cobra Kai team, her posture confident, her expression fierce as she prepared for battle. Arizona's breath hitched in her chest. The last person she had expected to see in Barcelona, the last person she ever imagined would be standing in front of her now, was Tory.

"Oh my God," Arizona whispered, her voice barely cutting through the noise of the arena, a low, disbelieving murmur. She blinked, thinking her eyes were playing tricks on her, but no—there she was, unmistakable. The girl who had been such a huge part of her life, the one who had turned her back on everything they had once shared, was now standing in the very arena that Arizona and the others had fought so hard to be a part of. A part of Cobra Kai, no less. Arizona's stomach churned as a wave of disbelief washed over her.

Miguel stood still beside her, his grip on her hand tightening with the same shock and confusion. The sight of Tory, the girl who had once been their friend and now stood as their adversary, twisted Arizona's insides. This wasn't just a rivalry. This wasn't just another fight. This felt personal.

"She's really here," Arizona murmured, her voice shaky, her heart pounding as the weight of the situation settled on her chest.

In the chaos of the arena, with competitors preparing for the fight of their lives, Arizona's mind swirled with conflicting emotions. Shock, anger, betrayal—feelings she didn't know what to do with. Her thoughts spiraled back to their last conversation, to Tory's desperate plea to be heard. Had she really chosen Cobra Kai over everything they had once stood for? Was this the final breaking point, the line in the sand that could never be crossed?

But as she stood there, watching Tory stand tall with Cobra Kai, Arizona felt the painful sting of the divide between them, a gulf too wide to bridge. She didn't know what to do anymore. The battle in front of her wasn't just physical—it was a battle for what they had lost and, perhaps, could never get back.

Tory was here, and nothing was ever going to be the same again.

ASH SPEAKS!!!

no dylan this chapter but he'll be making a reappearance in episode 8! he will be not in ep 6&7:(

arizonas dad ... we dont like him!

PLEASE DONT BE A GHOST READER!!!
COMMENT AND VOTE! IT HELPS US WRITERS STAY MOTIVATED:) PLEASE JUST STOP BEING A GHOST READER!! ITS ANNOYING!! PLEASE COMMENT AND VOTE. ITS NOT THAT HARD!!! PLEASE!
please stop being a ghost reader!!!! us writers work hard on these chapters