chapter twenty-nine:
❛ karate time ❜

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The sun was shining brightly on the day of Tyler's graduation, casting a golden hue over the large crowd gathered in the outdoor stadium. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and pride as families and friends filled the seats, eagerly awaiting the ceremony. Among the attendees were Tyler's family: his sister Clementine, his dad Caleb, his aunt Anastasia, and his beloved grandparents, Bubbe and Zayde.

Clementine was practically vibrating with excitement, her eyes scanning the sea of graduates for a glimpse of her brother. She wore a flowy summer dress and a wide-brimmed hat to shield her eyes from the sun. "I can't believe it's finally here!" she exclaimed to her dad, Caleb, who was adjusting the camera to capture the best moments of the ceremony.

"I know, right? Seems like just yesterday he was starting high school," Caleb replied, his voice thick with emotion. He wore a crisp button-up shirt and khaki pants, looking every bit the proud father.

Anastasia, Tyler's aunt, sat beside Caleb, wearing a stylish sundress and sunglasses. She was holding a bouquet of flowers for Tyler. "He's worked so hard for this. I'm so proud of him," she said, her voice warm and full of love.

Bubbe and Zayde, sitting next to Clementine, were beaming with pride. Bubbe, dressed in a smart floral dress, clutched her handbag and tissues, ready for the inevitable tears. Zayde, in a sharp suit, had a proud smile on his face as he held Bubbe's hand. "Our grandson is graduating! This is such a big day," Bubbe said, dabbing at the corners of her eyes with a tissue.

The ceremony began with the principal's speech, and the crowd quieted down. Clementine, Caleb, Anastasia, Bubbe, and Zayde listened intently, their eyes trained on the stage. When the graduates began to line up to receive their diplomas, the excitement among the family was palpable.

"There he is!" Clementine pointed, her voice filled with excitement as she spotted Tyler in his cap and gown, walking toward the stage.

Caleb quickly adjusted the camera, zooming in on Tyler's beaming face. "There's my boy," he said proudly, his voice catching in his throat.

As Tyler's name was called, the family erupted into cheers and applause. "Go Tyler!" Clementine shouted, her voice ringing out above the crowd. Bubbe and Zayde clapped enthusiastically, tears streaming down Bubbe's face.

Tyler walked across the stage, accepting his diploma with a broad smile. He paused to wave at his family, his eyes bright with happiness. Clementine blew him a kiss, and Caleb gave him a thumbs up. Anastasia held up the bouquet of flowers, signaling that they were for him.

After the ceremony, the family gathered around Tyler, showering him with hugs and congratulations. Clementine hugged him tightly. "I'm so proud of you, Ty! You did it!"

"Thanks, Clem. I couldn't have done it without your support," Tyler replied, grinning from ear to ear.

Caleb hugged his son, his voice choked with emotion. "You've made us all so proud, son. This is just the beginning."

Anastasia handed Tyler the bouquet of flowers. "These are for you. Congratulations, Tyler."

"Thanks, Aunt Anastasia," Tyler said, accepting the flowers with a smile.

Bubbe and Zayde each took their turn hugging Tyler, their pride evident. "You've grown into such a wonderful young man," Zayde said, his voice filled with pride. "We're so proud of you," Bubbe added, her eyes still glistening with tears.

The family posed for pictures, capturing the joy and pride of the day. It was a moment they would all treasure forever, a celebration of Tyler's hard work and the bright future that lay ahead.

After the family had taken their photos and shared their congratulations, Clementine pulled Tyler aside. She had been curious about his college plans for months but hadn't been able to get a straight answer from him.

"Hey, Ty, can we talk for a second?" she asked, leading him away from the crowd to a quieter spot under a nearby tree.

"Sure, Clem. What's up?" Tyler replied, sensing the seriousness in her tone.

"I've been trying to get you to tell me for ages: where are you going to college?" Clementine asked, crossing her arms and giving him a piercing look. "You've been so secretive about it."

Tyler sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I knew you'd ask eventually. I'm going to NYU."

Clementine's eyes widened in surprise. "New York University? Wow, Ty! That's amazing! But... why didn't you tell me sooner?"

Tyler looked down at his shoes, shuffling them in the grass. "I've been hesitant to tell you because... well, it means I'll be far away. I didn't want you to be upset."

Clementine's expression softened. She reached out and took his hand. "Ty, I'm not upset. I'm proud of you. NYU is an incredible opportunity. Of course, I'll miss you like crazy, but I know this is a big step for you, and you're going to do great things."

Tyler looked up, relief flooding his face. "Really? You're not mad?"

"Not at all," Clementine said, squeezing his hand. "I'm your sister, and I'll always support you. We'll find a way to stay in touch, and I'll come visit you in New York. Plus, you'll have a whole new city to explore. It's exciting!"

Tyler pulled her into a tight hug. "Thanks, Clem. That means a lot to me. I've been so worried about telling you."

Clementine hugged him back, feeling a mix of pride and bittersweet emotions. "You don't have to worry. We'll make it work. And besides, it's New York! I'll definitely be visiting."

They both laughed, the tension melting away. As they walked back to join the family, Clementine felt a renewed sense of pride in her brother and a determination to support him no matter where life took them.

The day had finally arrived: the All Valley Tournament. Clementine paced back and forth in the back, her heart pounding with anxiety as she waited for Eagle-Fang to be called out. She was no longer the only girl on the team, with Devon Lee having joined, but the nerves were still intense. Suddenly, the feeling in her stomach became unbearable, and she rushed to a nearby trashcan to vomit.

From across the room, Robby noticed her distress. He glanced at his senseis, trying to find a way to slip away and comfort her. Before he could make a move, Miguel beat him to it, walking over to Clementine and gently patting her on the back. She looked up at Miguel, managing a small smile of gratitude. Her hair, fortunately, was already tied up in a ponytail, keeping it out of the way.

Robby clenched his jaw, feeling a mix of frustration and helplessness. Tory, noticing his tension, nudged him in the side. "Hey, she'll be okay," she said softly. "She's strong."

Robby sighed, nodding slightly. "I know. It's just hard seeing her like this and not being able to help."

Meanwhile, Miguel crouched down beside Clementine. "Hey, you okay?" he asked gently.

She nodded, taking a deep breath to steady herself. "Yeah, I think so. Just a bit nervous, you know?"

Miguel smiled reassuringly. "You're going to do great. Just remember everything we've trained for. You're one of the strongest fighters here."

Clementine took another deep breath, feeling a bit calmer. "Thanks, Miguel. I needed that."

The team gathered together, a mix of determination and excitement in their eyes. Miguel gave Clementine a final pat on the shoulder before they joined their teammates, ready to face whatever challenges the tournament would bring.

Robby watched as Clementine walked to join her team, feeling a pang of jealousy but also a deep respect for her strength. Tory placed a comforting hand on his arm. "She'll be fine. And so will you. Let's focus on our matches, okay?"

Robby nodded, taking a deep breath. "Yeah, you're right. Let's do this."

As the teams continued to wait for their dojo names to be called, the anticipation grew heavier. The tension in the air was palpable. Miguel, trying to distract himself from the nerves, turned to Clementine.

"Why didn't you tell me you're back with Robby?" he asked, his voice tinged with frustration.

Clementine, caught off guard by the question, blinked a few times before responding. "Miguel, this isn't the time to talk about it."

"No, it's the perfect time," Miguel shot back, his voice rising slightly. "You've had plenty of opportunities to tell me, but you kept it a secret. Why?"

Clementine looked around nervously, noticing a few heads turning in their direction. "I didn't want to cause any drama right before the tournament."

Miguel's face hardened. "You think this isn't already drama? You should have been honest with me, Clementine. We're supposed to be friends. Do you know how it feels to find out like this?"

Clementine's expression turned defensive. "I didn't owe you an explanation about my personal life, Miguel. You have Sam, and I didn't want to stir up any unnecessary problems."

Miguel scoffed, shaking his head. "So, you decided to hide it instead? That's not how friends treat each other."

The argument drew the attention of the surrounding fighters, including Robby, who watched with a mix of concern and frustration. He wanted to step in, to defend Clementine, but the moment was too heated. Before he could say anything, the announcement for Eagle-Fang's turn to the mat echoed through the room.

Miguel clenched his fists and took a step back, his eyes blazing with anger. "This isn't over," he muttered before walking away, his anger palpable.

Clementine stood there, feeling a mix of guilt and anger herself. She noticed Robby watching from a distance, his face a mask of concern and regret. He started to move towards her, but the call for Eagle-Fang to take their positions cut him short.

Devon Lee stepped forward, giving Clementine a supportive pat on the back. "Come on, Clem. Focus on the tournament. We can deal with everything else later."

Clementine took a deep breath, nodding. She glanced at Robby one last time, their eyes meeting in a moment of silent understanding, before joining her team on the mat. The argument with Miguel still weighed heavily on her mind, but she pushed it aside, determined to give her best performance in the tournament.

Tyler, Anastasia, Caleb, Bubbe, and Zayde all sat in the stands, eagerly awaiting Clementine's turn. Bubbe and Tyler had just returned with an assortment of snacks. "Ugh! Where is that announcer?! I want our girl to come out here already!" Bubbe exclaimed, frustration evident in her voice. As if on cue, Daryl, the announcer, stepped out onto the stage.

"Ladies and gentlemen... you've been waiting a long time, but we're finally here," Daryl's voice echoed through the arena. Clementine's family cheered loudly, their anticipation palpable.

Alison, running late, finally pushed her way through the crowded stands and found Tyler waving her over. She squeezed through the row to join them. "Sorry, guys. Traffic was bad," she apologized, slightly out of breath.

Caleb patted her shoulder reassuringly. "It's okay, Ali. Just happy you're here before Clementine came out because you would not hear the end of it," he said, and Alison nodded in agreement.

"I wish I was down there though! I'm the mediator," Alison huffed, clearly frustrated.

"Why wouldn't they let you?" Zayde asked, his confusion evident.

"The All Valley board said it's a stupid role to have someone down there since they already have referees," Alison explained, and Bubbe huffed in indignation.

"What?! Want me to have a word with those fools?" Bubbe asked, standing up before Zayde gently pulled her back down.

"Don't get ahead of yourself, sweetheart," he said soothingly.

Daryl continued, "Dojo's from all across the Valley have been training for a year for their shot at glory. You ready to meet 'em?" The crowd erupted in cheers.

"This sensei and dojo need no introduction. He took the All Valley by storm in 1984 and '85 and quickly became one of the greatest underdogs in the history of the sport. Last year, this dojo came out of nowhere and made it to the finals. They've got some new fighters, and they're ready to show the world that they're the best around. Give it up for Miyagi-Do Karate, led by two-time All Valley champion Daniel LaRusso!" Daryl announced.

As Miyagi-Do walked out, Alison squealed and cheered, "Go Eli!" She blew him a kiss, and Eli reciprocated from the floor, making Bubbe gush, "Aww, you guys are so adorable." Alison blushed deeply.

"This next dojo took last year's title. But they're under new management. Can they reign supreme once more? And last year's runner-up. He may be wearing a new gi, but one thing is for sure, Robby Keene and his team are ready to strike! Hailing from Reseda, defending champions and still the most badass name for a dojo, here comes Cobra Kai!" Daryl's voice boomed.

Clementine's family and Alison didn't cheer. "Do we cheer since Robby's on the team? I mean, that's Clem's boyfriend?" Tyler asked hesitantly.

Alison shook her head. "No... but I hope tonight he will get something through his thick head to get out of Cobra Kai," she commented, looking pointedly at Robby, who sensed her gaze and met her eyes. "You better not mess this up," Alison mouthed, and Robby gave her a confused look.

"And finally... this dojo is making their All Valley debut, though you'll recognize a few familiar faces. Every year, a new dojo rises up the ranks. Does this newcomer have what it takes to win it all? Please welcome Eagle Fang Karate, led by Sensei Johnny Lawrence and defending champion Miguel Diaz! Newcomer Clementine Katz, daughter of former All Valley winner, Caleb Katz has joined!" Daryl announced.

As Clementine walked out, she heard the announcement and was puzzled. She never knew her dad had won an All Valley tournament. She glanced at Caleb in the crowd and then at Tyler, who also looked confused.

"Dad, you won?" Tyler questioned, and Caleb sighed. "We'll talk about this after the tournament," he trailed off, looking slightly uncomfortable.

Clementine stood stiffly beside Miguel, who avoided eye contact with her, causing her to frown and look down at her feet. Alison, noticing this, immediately sensed that something was wrong. She glanced over at Robby and mouthed, "What happened?"

Robby mouthed back, "He knows we're back together. Not happy," just as Sensei Silver turned to him.

"Stop talking to your enemy's best friend, Keene," Silver retorted sharply.

"At the end of the day, one of these dojos can be crowned Grand Champion. Welcome to the 51st annual All Valley Under-18 Karate Tournament!" Daryl announced, and the crowd cheered wildly. "It's karate time," Daryl added with a chuckle.

Miguel continued to glare at Clementine, frustration evident in his eyes. "Miguel, can we please talk?" Clementine asked, her voice tinged with desperation. Miguel rolled his eyes and stepped away from her, his anger palpable. She frowned, feeling a mixture of guilt and anxiety.

"Eagle Fangs, listen up!" Sensei Lawrence called out, walking forward to gather everyone around. Clementine, still reeling from her interaction with Miguel, tried to focus on her sensei.

"Some of you have been here before... and for some of you, it's your first karate tournament. I still remember my first All Valley where I pummeled the ever-loving crap out of my opponents as the crowd cheered..." Johnny trailed off, reminiscing. Clementine's eyes drifted over to Robby, who was already staring at her.

"Good luck," Robby mouthed to her, and she smiled softly, mouthing it back.

"Cinnamon Girl, eyes off my son," Johnny snapped, catching her off guard and causing her to blush.

"As I was saying, they tried to soften you. That bullshit's behind us now," Johnny continued, regaining his momentum. "If Cobra Kai wins, that means no more Eagle Fang. We're not gonna let that happen, are we?"

"No, Sensei!" Clementine and her teammates shouted in unison.

"We have something that Cobra Kai doesn't. We have a reigning champion," Johnny said, pointing at Miguel. "So, let's get out there... and show what Eagle Fang is! Are you ready?"

"Yes, Sensei!" Eagle Fang yelled, their voices echoing through the room.

"Alright, good. Let's warm up," Johnny said, nodding his head upwards.

As the team began their warm-up routines, Clementine tried to push aside her nerves and the tension with Miguel. She needed to focus. This was the moment they had all been training for.

From the stands, Tyler, Anastasia, Caleb, Bubbe, Zayde, and Alison watched eagerly. "There she is!" Bubbe exclaimed, pointing at Clementine. "Our girl is ready!"

"Yes, she is," Caleb said, pride evident in his voice. "Come on, Clem, you got this."

Alison, still worried about the tension she had seen between Miguel and Clementine, leaned over to Tyler. "Do you think she's okay?" she asked.

Tyler shrugged, his eyes never leaving the arena. "She'll be fine. Clem's tough."

Meanwhile, on the floor, Clementine took a deep breath, trying to center herself. Miguel stood nearby, still avoiding her gaze. She knew they needed to resolve their issues, but right now, she had to put everything aside and focus on the competition.

Johnny clapped his hands, getting everyone's attention. "Alright, let's do this! Eagle Fang on three! One, two, three!"

"Eagle Fang!" they shouted, their voices filled with determination.

As they prepared to take their positions, Clementine glanced over at Miguel one last time. He finally met her eyes, but the anger was still there. She hoped they could talk and clear the air, but for now, she had to concentrate on the tournament. It was time to show everyone what Eagle Fang was made of.

Daryl walked forward again onto the mat, his voice booming through the speakers. "Ladies and gentlemen, it's time to begin our skills competition. Up first, Clementine Katz from Eagle-Fang Karate, who'll be showcasing the nunchucks!"

The crowd erupted into applause as Clementine took a deep breath, steadying her nerves. She stepped onto the mat, the bright lights illuminating her path. She could hear her family cheering from the stands, their support giving her the strength she needed.

Tyler, Anastasia, Caleb, Bubbe, Zayde, and Alison all leaned forward in their seats, eyes glued to Clementine. "Come on, Clem, you got this!" Tyler shouted, pumping his fist in the air.

Clementine walked to the center of the mat, her heart pounding in her chest. She took her position, holding the nunchucks with a firm grip. She closed her eyes for a moment, visualizing her routine and letting the familiar movements calm her.

As the announcer's voice faded, the arena fell silent. Clementine opened her eyes, her gaze focused and determined. With a swift, fluid motion, she began her routine. The nunchucks whirled through the air, a blur of motion as she executed each move with precision and grace.

Starting with a simple figure-eight pattern, Clementine smoothly transitioned into more complex techniques. The nunchucks spun around her body in a continuous motion, seamlessly moving from hand to hand. The chains clinked rhythmically, creating a hypnotic sound that echoed through the arena.

She increased the speed, her movements becoming a whirlwind of energy. The nunchucks flew over her shoulders and under her arms, spinning rapidly around her neck and waist. Each motion was deliberate, controlled, and precise. Her concentration was unwavering as she focused on maintaining the perfect balance between speed and accuracy.

As she progressed through her routine, Clementine introduced aerial techniques, tossing the nunchucks high into the air and catching them effortlessly. The audience gasped with each throw, captivated by her dexterity and confidence.

With a quick, fluid motion, she performed a series of complex spins and flips, the nunchucks a blur as they moved around her body. She incorporated rapid strikes, showcasing her power and control. Each strike was crisp and sharp, the nunchucks cutting through the air with a satisfying snap.

Clementine moved into a sequence of behind-the-back passes, the nunchucks smoothly transferring from one hand to the other. She performed a butterfly spin, the nunchucks crossing over in front of her in a mesmerizing display of skill. Her movements were a perfect blend of power and elegance, a testament to her dedication and countless hours of practice.

From the sidelines, Sensei Lawrence watched with pride. "That's it, Cinnamon Girl. Show 'em what you got," he muttered under his breath.

Clementine continued her routine, the nunchucks moving in perfect harmony with her body. She finished with a dramatic flourish, striking a final pose as the nunchucks came to a stop, one handle caught firmly in each hand. The crowd erupted into applause, their cheers echoing through the arena.

She looked over at her family in the stands. Bubbe was practically jumping out of her seat with excitement. "That's my granddaughter! She's amazing!" Bubbe shouted, clapping her hands.

Tyler and Alison were cheering loudly, their faces beaming with pride. Caleb, Anastasia, and Zayde joined in the applause, their support unwavering.

Clementine took a deep breath, feeling a wave of relief wash over her. She had done it. She had given it her all. As she walked off the mat, Miguel finally looked at her, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. It was a small gesture, but it meant everything to her.

Robby watched from the Cobra Kai side, his eyes filled with admiration. "Nice job, Clem," he whispered to himself.

As she rejoined her team, Johnny clapped her on the back. "Great job out there, Clementine. You made us proud."

Clementine nodded, her heart swelling with pride and gratitude. She had faced her fears and come out stronger. Now, it was time to support her teammates and see what the rest of the tournament had in store.

After the skills competition, Daryl walked back up to the microphone, his voice booming through the speakers. "And just like that, Miyagi-Do has been snake-bit as Cobra Kai takes the lead, with our qualifier rounds up next," he announced.

The crowd buzzed with anticipation as Eagle-Fang Karate huddled around Sensei Lawrence. Johnny Lawrence's face was a mixture of frustration and determination. "How the hell are we in sixth place? Cinnamon Girl did amazing! We should be in the top three because of her!" he exclaimed, looking around at his team.

Devon Lee, the newest member of Eagle-Fang, stepped forward, trying to explain. "The skill events are weighed differently. Gold medals are ten points, silver—"

Johnny cut her off, his impatience showing. "I don't give a shit about the math. What do we need to beat Cobra Kai?"

Devon stared at him, her eyebrows furrowed in concentration. "Uh, math. To catch up on points, we need to win as many matches in the qualifying rounds as possible. The further we get, the tighter the vice around Cobra Kai's metaphorical balls," she explained with a nod.

Johnny pointed his fingers at her, his frustration turning into a grudging respect. "Okay. Good. Now you're speaking my language," he said, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips.

Clementine chuckled, appreciating the moment of levity amidst the tension. She glanced around at her teammates, feeling a renewed sense of determination. "We've got this, guys. We just need to stay focused and give it our all," she said, trying to boost their morale.

Miguel, still simmering with unresolved emotions, gave a curt nod. "Yeah, let's show them what we're made of," he said, his voice tight.

Robby watched from the Cobra Kai side, his eyes flicking between Johnny and Clementine. He felt a pang of regret, wishing he could be there to support her. Tory nudged him, pulling him out of his thoughts. "Focus, Keene. We need to stay sharp," she said, her voice firm.

The microphone squeaked as Ron took the stage again, drawing Clementine's attention. "Ladies and gentlemen, the male and female division qualifiers are about to begin. And with them, we enter a new era!" Ron announced, his voice booming over the speakers.

The crowd erupted in applause, their excitement palpable. "That's why we need a very special guest to kick things off. Let's give a big All Valley welcome to multi-Grammy-award-winning, international superstar, Carrie Underwood!" Ron shouted.

Clementine's jaw dropped as she glanced over to the stands where Ali and her family were seated. She saw Bubbe's reaction and couldn't help but laugh as Bubbe stood up, screaming and waving her arms in excitement. It was clear that Carrie Underwood was Bubbe's favorite artist, and her enthusiasm was infectious.

Carrie Underwood stepped onto the stage, her presence commanding the attention of the entire arena. "Hello, All Valley! I am so honored to be here. I didn't see a lot of karate growing up in Oklahoma, but you guys know I love to compete, just like these wonderful young men and young women," Carrie said into the microphone.

The crowd cheered, their enthusiasm matched by the energy of the performer. Carrie continued, "One thing I have learned is that everyone gets their shot, their chance in the spotlight. Everyone gets their moment. This one's yours."

With those words, Carrie began to sing a high-energy rock song, her powerful voice filling the arena. The crowd swayed and sang along, their excitement heightening the atmosphere. Clementine looked over at Bubbe, who was clearly in her element, enjoying every moment of the performance. Clementine couldn't help but join in on the fun, her earlier nerves momentarily forgotten as she immersed herself in the spectacle.

Carrie's performance set an electrifying tone for the rest of the tournament, adding an extra layer of excitement to the already charged atmosphere. As the song reached its crescendo, Clementine felt a renewed sense of energy and focus, ready to take on the challenges that lay ahead in the qualifiers.

The excitement in the arena reached a fever pitch as the announcer's voice boomed over the loudspeakers. "Ladies and gentlemen, it's time for our next match! In the red corner, representing Miyagi-Do Karate, we have Sam LaRusso! And in the blue corner, representing Eagle-Fang Karate, it's Clementine Katz!" The crowd erupted in cheers and applause.

"Let's get this match started!" the announcer called. "On my count: Three... Two... One... Fight!"

The bell rang, and both fighters stepped onto the mat with intense focus. Sam immediately launched into a series of aggressive kata moves. Her kicks were high and her punches sharp, each motion fueled by a fierce determination. Clementine responded with a defensive stance, her movements fluid and measured as she blocked and dodged Sam's rapid attacks.

Sam's anger was evident in her aggressive form. Her strikes were relentless, with a glaring intensity that was unusual for her. Clementine managed to deflect most of Sam's attacks but was pushed back by the sheer force of her opponent's anger. Sam's strikes became increasingly wild, her frustration palpable with each missed opportunity.

With a swift sidestep, Clementine avoided a high kick from Sam and countered with a precise jab that scored the first point. The announcer's voice rang out, "1-0 Katz!"

Clementine kept her composure, maintaining a steady pace. She noticed Sam's anger growing with each point scored against her. Sam's kata became more erratic, her breathing heavy and uneven. Despite the frustration, she continued to fight aggressively, trying to break through Clementine's defenses.

As Sam lunged forward with a powerful punch, Clementine executed a graceful spin, dodging the strike and landing a solid roundhouse kick to Sam's side. The referee signaled another point. "2-0 Katz!"

Sam, visibly flustered, scowled and intensified her attacks. She tried to overwhelm Clementine with a flurry of kicks and punches. Her movements were fast but lacked precision, making it easier for Clementine to anticipate and counter them.

"Is that all you've got?" Clementine taunted, attempting to distract Sam. Sam's eyes narrowed in response, her anger boiling over. She charged at Clementine with renewed fury, but Clementine's defensive skills held strong. With a swift block and counter, Clementine scored another point.

"3-0 Katz!" the announcer declared, the crowd's reaction a mix of surprise and excitement.

Sam, red-faced and panting, glared at Clementine, her frustration evident. "Wondering if Robby taught you any Cobra Kai tricks while you were dating?" Sam shot back, her voice tinged with bitterness.

Clementine, remaining calm, parried another aggressive attack from Sam. "Robby and I are here to compete, not to drag our personal lives into it," she replied, her voice steady despite the intensity of the match.

Sam's aggression only grew, but Clementine's technique remained superior. As Sam attempted a high kick, Clementine dodged with a fluid movement and delivered a precise strike to Sam's midsection. The point was awarded, and the announcer's voice boomed once more, "4-0 Katz!"

With each point, Clementine's movements became more confident, while Sam's anger and fatigue began to take their toll. Sam's strikes were slower, less controlled. In a final push, Clementine executed a perfectly timed spinning kick that earned her the fifth point.

"5-0 Katz! And that's the match!"

The crowd erupted into cheers as Clementine raised her arms in victory. Sam, though defeated, nodded in acknowledgment of the well-fought match. Clementine approached her with a respectful bow.

"Good fight, Sam," Clementine said, her tone sincere.

Sam's only response was a curt nod, her focus already shifting to the next challenge. As Clementine walked off the mat, she felt a mix of relief and triumph. Her victory was not just a testament to her skill but also to her ability to remain composed under pressure.

Clementine stood near the edge of the blue mat, her eyes darting around as she absorbed the atmosphere of the quarterfinals. The adrenaline from the earlier rounds had left her both exhilarated and exhausted, but she felt a rush of pride and determination at having made it this far. The crowd's cheers and claps created a deafening roar that filled the arena.

Daryl, the announcer, took to the center of the mat with his microphone, his voice booming through the speakers. "All right, folks. We've witnessed some great fighting today. But you ain't seen nothing yet. Because we have arrived at the quarterfinals!" He punctuated his announcement with a dramatic pause and a chuckle, prompting a fresh wave of cheers from the audience.

The excitement in the stands was palpable. Clementine's family—her dad Caleb, her aunt Anastasia, and her younger brother Tyler—were among the crowd. They waved their handmade signs and screamed her name, their support a bright spot amidst the sea of faces. Bubbe and Zayde were also there, their cheers enthusiastic and heartfelt.

Daryl continued, "Which means things are about to get intense. Of the eight boys and eight girls on this stage, one of each will be named All Valley champion. And then we'll tally all the points to determine which dojo has earned the title of Grand Champion." The crowd erupted in anticipation, and Daryl's excitement was infectious.

He leaned into the microphone and added, "And since the points get higher in each round... it's still any dojo's game! So you keep your eyes on this here blue mat, because we are just getting started!" The crowd roared, eager for the matches ahead.

Clementine turned to look at Miguel, who stood a few feet away. He had been a pillar of support throughout the tournament, and seeing him still in the running was a relief. She raised her fist in a gesture of camaraderie and support. "Can we get past this?" she asked, a touch of nervousness in her voice.

Miguel, his expression a mix of determination and concern, sighed and bumped his fist against hers. "I wish you'd told me sooner," he said, his tone serious but not unkind.

Clementine's face fell slightly, a pang of regret crossing her features. "I'm sorry," she replied, her voice tinged with sincerity.

Miguel gave her a nod, a silent acknowledgment of their shared understanding and the weight of their situation. The tension between them was palpable, but it was tempered by their mutual respect and the drive to succeed in the tournament.

As the referee stepped to the center of the mat, the energy in the arena surged. The quarterfinals were about to begin, and Clementine's focus sharpened as she prepared for the battles ahead.

Clementine stepped confidently onto the blue mat, her gaze fixed on Tory, who was stretching and preparing for their match. The referee stepped between them, raising his hand. "Go!" he called out.

Tory was quick to act, launching a punch towards Clementine. With precise timing, Clementine stepped back, evading the blow. Before she could settle, Tory tried to follow up with a high kick. Clementine raised her arm to block the kick and swiftly countered by spinning around and delivering a well-placed kick to Tory's side.

"1-0 Katz!" the referee announced, his voice clear and firm. Clementine allowed herself a small, satisfied smile, while Tory responded with a determined grin. Both fighters retook their positions as directed by the referee.

In the stands, Clementine's family and Alison were all on their feet. Bubbe and Zayde cheered loudly, clapping and shouting. "Go, Clementine!" Bubbe called out, her voice filled with pride. Tyler waved his arms energetically, and Caleb's eyes were fixed intently on the mat. Alison, standing near them, was particularly animated.

"Come on, Clem! Show her what you've got!" Alison shouted, her voice cutting through the noise of the crowd. She continued to cheer, her enthusiasm unwavering. "That's it! Keep your guard up! She's trying to throw you off!"

Back on the mat, the match was heating up. Tory advanced, aiming another kick at Clementine. This time, Clementine blocked the kick with her arm and sidestepped a follow-up punch from Tory. She circled her opponent, looking for an opening. Tory tried to dodge Clementine's counterattack, but Clementine was fast and precise. With a sharp movement, she grabbed Tory's leg as she attempted another kick, using her momentum to slam Tory onto the mat. Without hesitation, Clementine followed through with a punch aimed at Tory's stomach.

"Point! Winner!" the referee declared, lifting Clementine's arm in victory. The crowd erupted into applause, and Clementine couldn't help but beam with pride.

Tory, though visibly frustrated, got up from the mat and approached Clementine. They bowed to each other in a gesture of mutual respect, acknowledging the skill and effort each had put into the match.

As Clementine walked back to her corner, Johnny and Miguel were waiting for her. Both beamed with approval and enthusiasm. Johnny gave Clementine a high five, his face a mixture of pride and encouragement. Miguel followed suit, their shared excitement and relief palpable.

Alison rushed down to the edge of the mat, hugging Clementine tightly. "You were amazing out there! I knew you had it in you!" Alison exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement.

Clementine looked over to the stands where her family was still cheering. Bubbe was dancing in her seat, Zayde was clapping with a broad smile, and Tyler gave her a thumbs-up. The support from her family and friends, combined with the adrenaline from her win, made Clementine feel unstoppable as she prepared for the next challenge in the tournament.

Alison was seated in the stands, her eyes scanning the arena, when she noticed Kyler whispering something to Eli. Kyler's smirk was unmistakably smug, and Alison's expression darkened with concern. Without a second thought, she got up from her seat and made her way down towards the mat.

"Hey, Eli," Alison said firmly as she reached him, her voice cutting through the noise of the crowd. "Ignore Kyler. He's an asshole, and that's not who you are."

Eli looked up at her, his expression conflicted and sad. "I don't know who I am these days," he admitted quietly.

Alison's heart ached seeing him like this. She reached out and gently cupped his face with her hands, making him meet her eyes. "You're not defined by your haircut, E. Don't get me wrong, I loved it. I digged the purple. But I liked you for you," she said with a warm, reassuring smile.

Eli sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly. "Well... I lost my confidence. So..." He trailed off, his gaze dropping to the ground.

Stepping closer, Alison tilted his chin up so he had no choice but to look at her. "I loved your confidence, but I said I like you for you. Eli, I love you." Her words were spoken with such sincerity and affection that Eli's eyes widened in surprise.

Before he could fully process what she said, Alison closed the distance between them, pressing her lips to his in a tender kiss. The world around them seemed to blur, and for a few precious moments, it was just the two of them, lost in the sensation of their shared affection. Their lips moved together gently, and a spark of connection ignited between them.

The announcement from Daryl cut through the intimate moment, jolting them back to reality. "Next up in the quarterfinals, it's Kyler Park of Cobra Kai versus Eli Moskowitz of Miyagi-Do," Daryl's voice echoed through the arena.

As they parted, their faces flushed with emotion, Eli looked at Alison with a soft smile. "I love you too, Ali," he said, his voice barely more than a whisper.

Alison's eyes lit up with joy. "Go beat his ass, babe," she encouraged him with a supportive smile, giving him a final squeeze on the shoulder before walking back to her seat.

Eli watched her go, feeling a renewed sense of determination. With Alison's love and encouragement fueling him, he turned back to face the mat, ready to show Kyler—and himself—what he was truly capable of.

Later in the day, the tension in the arena was palpable as the final matches approached. Eli and Miguel were up next, their intense rivalry adding a dramatic edge to the quarterfinals. Miguel was jumping up and down in preparation, his energy and focus evident. Clementine watched with a mixture of concern and excitement.

Before the match began, Miguel was seen heatedly arguing with Sensei Lawrence, his frustration boiling over. Clementine's heart sank as she noticed the heated exchange. Miguel's agitation was clear, and he stormed onto the mat with a scowl.

The referee stepped forward, raising his hand. "Miguel Diaz and Eli Moskowitz, you may begin."

As the match started, Miguel threw a powerful punch aimed directly at Eli. Eli, quick on his feet, dodged the blow with a nimble sidestep. Miguel, determined, swung again, but Eli deftly blocked it with his arm. The two continued to exchange punches and blocks in a rapid rhythm. Miguel was relentless, but Eli's agility allowed him to evade and counter effectively.

Miguel's attacks grew more aggressive, and Eli responded with precise, calculated moves. They both launched kicks in unison, but Eli managed to step forward and grab Miguel's leg, using his momentum to spin him around. Eli landed a solid punch to Miguel's side, sending him reeling.

Clementine watched anxiously from the sidelines, biting her nails as the fight continued. The intensity of the match was mirrored by her own growing nerves. Each exchange of blows seemed to amplify her concern for both fighters.

As the match reached its peak, Miguel leaped into the air, executing a spinning kick with impressive flair. Clementine's face lit up with a hopeful grin, but it was short-lived. With a sharp crack that reverberated through the arena, Miguel landed awkwardly on the mat, clutching his side and groaning in pain.

The crowd gasped collectively, and the referee rushed over to Miguel. "SENSEI!" Miguel yelled, his voice strained with pain. His distress was palpable as he lay on the mat, struggling to recover from the impact.

Clementine's grin faltered, replaced by a look of concern and helplessness. She watched as Miguel grimaced, his discomfort clear. The atmosphere was heavy with tension as the arena fell into a worried silence, waiting for the next move.

ASH SPEAKS!

ooo cliffhanger!

also i know i did five points but these were like warm up rounds and i wanted to do five points for them?? when we get to the quarterfinals and finals it will be 2 points!