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         IT WAS THE ALL VALLEY ONCE AGAIN. The arena sprawled before Marisol, a labyrinth of seats and eager spectators. Despite her desire to engage in the fight, this time, she was relegated to the sidelines, an observer in a world she yearned to actively participate in. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, the hum of conversations and the occasional cheer creating an electric backdrop.

Marisol, unaccustomed to the role of a mere spectator, bit down nervously on her bottom lip. The unfamiliarity of the situation loomed over her, but a spark of anticipation fueled her curiosity about what lay ahead.

Surveying the diverse crowd, Marisol's eyes flicked from one animated face to another, trying to glean insights into the unfolding event. Amidst the sea of strangers, a familiar wave caught her attention. Squinting against the bright lights, she recognized Rosa and Carmen, Miguel's grandmother and mother, enthusiastically beckoning her over.

With a tentative yet determined smile, Marisol began weaving through the labyrinth of spectators. The pulsating energy of the crowd surrounded her as she traversed the stadium, anticipation building with every step. Finally, she reached Rosa and Carmen, finding comfort and familiarity in their welcoming presence amidst the sea of unknown faces.

Rosa's exuberance radiated as she enveloped Marisol with a friendly greeting, seizing her face for a warm kiss on the cheek. "Hola, Marisol," Rosa exclaimed, her grin infectious. Marisol couldn't help but giggle in response, finding herself comfortably seated between Rosa and Carmen. "¡Hola, Rosa! ¡Hola Carmen! ¿Cómo estáis?" Marisol greeted, her eyes shifting between the two. The camaraderie between them filled the air, creating a pocket of warmth and familiarity amidst the bustling arena.

TRANSLATION: Hi, Rosa! hi, Carmen. How are you guys?

Carmen's laughter carried a nervous edge, betraying the worry etched across her features. "I'm nervous for Miguel. I'm worried about him. He hasn't seemed that happy lately, and he's been having a rough time with his back," she admitted with a sigh, her concerns laid bare.

Marisol responded with a soft hum, her eyes reflecting understanding. "Yeah, Miguel told me. I hope he does okay out there with his back," she expressed, her words a comforting gesture in the face of shared apprehension. Carmen clicked her tongue, an acknowledgment of the challenging circumstances.

"Me too," Carmen sighed, her fingers instinctively seeking solace in Marisol's hand. She squeezed it gently, a silent testament to the depth of their concern. The frown on Carmen's face spoke volumes about the emotional weight she carried for Miguel, and in that shared moment, Marisol found herself intimately connected to the bond of friendship and worry that tied them together.

Miguel's family had seamlessly woven into Marisol's life, evolving into a cherished extension of her own. Their warmth and support made them a second family she held close, grateful for the bonds they'd forged.

During a moment of camaraderie, Rosa nudged Marisol gently in the side, a mischievous spark in her eyes. "¿Cómo está Mila? ¿Está ella aquí con Anthonyyy?" Rosa teased, her playful tone accompanied by a wiggle of her eyebrows and shoulders. Marisol's laughter bubbled forth, echoing in the shared intimacy of the moment. The light-hearted banter became a delightful pause, a reminder of the joy found within the folds of their makeshift family.

TRANSLATION: How's Mila? Is she here with Anthonyyy?

Marisol's finger traced a path toward Anthony and Mila, nestled close to Anthony's mom. "Sí, allí mismo con Amanda," she announced with a proud grin. The warmth in Marisol's expression spoke volumes about the joy she felt for her sister, embracing the milestone of Mila's first relationship with a mix of fondness and enthusiasm. The familial pride added an extra layer of connection to the unfolding events, making the gathering even more special.

TRANSLATION: Yup, right there with Amanda.

Marisol's head turned sharply, a fleeting impression of Sophie catching her attention. She cast a gaze back onto the mats, only to find them devoid of Sophie's presence. Dismissing the momentary confusion, Marisol chalked it up to her sleep-deprived state, having only managed five hours of rest.

As Daryl's voice echoed through the venue, a hush fell over the audience, anticipation thickening the air. "Ladies and gentlemen," he chuckled, his words met with Marisol's enthusiastic response — a spirited whistle and hands clapping in the air. The collective excitement hinted at the prolonged anticipation finally reaching its peak. "You've been waiting a long time, but we're finally here," Daryl declared, ushering in a wave of anticipation and eagerness among the gathered spectators.

Marisol's hands clapped together in rhythmic applause, her spirited cheers joining the symphony of excitement pulsating through the crowd. Daryl's voice, amplified by the microphone, cut through the anticipatory atmosphere. "Dojos from all across the Valley have been training for a year for their shot at glory. You ready to meet 'em?" he bellowed, prompting another surge of enthusiasm from Marisol and the animated assembly.

As the air buzzed with anticipation, Daryl's narration continued to build the suspense. "This sensei and dojo need no introduction. He took the All Valley by storm in 1984 and '85, quickly becoming one of the greatest underdogs in the history of the sport." The crowd's collective excitement intensified, a wave of nostalgia accompanying the familiar narrative.

Daryl's words resonated with a sense of history. "Last year, this dojo emerged unexpectedly, making it to the finals. They've got some new fighters, and they're ready to show the world that they're the best around." The anticipation peaked, culminating in thunderous applause and cheers as Daryl declared, "Give it up for Miyagi-Do Karate, led by two-time All Valley champion Daniel LaRusso!" The cheers that followed echoed with a blend of respect, admiration, and sheer excitement, setting the stage for an electrifying display of martial arts prowess.

Marisol's sharp whistle pierced the arena, a distinct signal of her encouragement for Sam and Eli. "Go, Sam! Go, Eli! You go, babe!" Her vibrant shout echoed through the space, hands forming a makeshift megaphone around her mouth to amplify the spirited cheers.

As the Miyagi-Dos, led by Daniel, jogged onto the stage, Marisol locked eyes with Sam, who responded with a playful wink. On the other side, Eli's initial glare transformed into a softer expression, punctuated by a blown kiss in Marisol's direction. Sam rolled her eyes at Eli's theatrics, and Marisol, caught in the middle, couldn't help but nervously chuckle at the playful banter between the two.

A subtle blush painted Marisol's cheeks in response to Eli's gesture, a mix of amusement and anticipation swirling within her. In that moment, amidst the cheers and theatrical exchanges, she held a hopeful gaze, wishing for a stellar performance from her friends on the martial arts stage.

The announcer's voice resonated through the arena, stirring the anticipation of the crowd. "This next dojo claimed last year's title, but with new management. Can they maintain their supremacy once more? And last year's runner-up, donning a fresh gi, but one thing's for certain – Robby Keene and his team are poised to strike!" The words hung in the air, a moment of expectation that prompted Marisol to furrow her lips, memories of Robby's sudden disappearance and Nat's subsequent distress flashing in her mind.

"Hailing from Reseda, defending champions, and still carrying the most badass name for a dojo, here comes Cobra Kai!" The announcer's declaration boomed, setting off a wave of cheers and applause from the audience. Marisol's gaze focused on the unfolding spectacle, the name Cobra Kai evoking a mix of nostalgia, intrigue, and a hint of tension.

With a sense of assurance, Cobra Kai made their presence known, stepping out with purpose. "After a considerable wait, our dojo is poised to make its All Valley debut, and among the participants, you'll recognize a few faces. As the annual tradition goes, a new dojo rises to the occasion. The spotlight now turns to newcomers Devon Lee and Therese Alsten—do they possess the prowess to emerge victorious? It's time to extend a warm welcome to Eagle Fang Karate, guided by the indomitable Sensei Johnny Lawrence and the reigning champion, Miguel Diaz!"

Marisol's sharp whistle pierced the air, a fervent expression of support. "Go, Therese! Go, Miguel! Go, Devon!" Her cheers echoed through the arena as she fervently cupped her hands around her mouth. Amidst the excitement, Marisol sensed an intense stare and turned to find Robby's eyes fixed on her. Unfazed, she met his gaze with defiance, raising her middle finger in a bold retort.

Suppressing her laughter, Carmen couldn't help but grin. Rosa leaned in conspiratorially, remarking, "Ella es toda una salada. Definitivamente sería tu hija en otro universo." The words were shared in a hushed whisper, prompting Carmen to shoot her a playful look before smacking Rosa's arm with a scoff, the affectionate banter between the two creating a light-hearted moment.

TRANSLATION: She a salty one. She would definitely be your daughter in another universe.

"As the sun sets, the anticipation heightens, for only one dojo will emerge as the Grand Champion. Here we are, gathered for the 51st annual All Valley Under-18 Karate Tournament!" Daryl's voice echoed through the arena. Marisol, caught up in the excitement, sprang to her feet, fists pumping in the air, and let out an exuberant whistle. "It's that moment—karate time has arrived!"

The skills tournament unfolded, each participant showcasing their abilities. Marisol watched attentively, acknowledging everyone's efforts. When Eli missed kicking the board, she sent him a sympathetic glance and blew a heartfelt kiss his way. As the dojos regrouped, the atmosphere became charged with anticipation, the participants and their senseis huddling together to strategize and plan for the challenges that lay ahead in the tournament.

A tap of the microphone by Ron caught Marisol's attention, causing her to furrow her brows with curiosity as she looked ahead. "Ladies and gentlemen," Ron announced, his voice resonating through the venue, "the time for the male and female division qualifiers is upon us. As we embark on these qualifiers, we herald the beginning of a new era!" The anticipation in the air heightened, and the crowd braced for the exciting challenges ahead.

Marisol let out a soft whistle, exchanging glances with Carmen. "Any clue what's happening?" she questioned. Carmen responded with a nonchalant shrug, saying, "Reminds me of a guy I knew in high school." She chuckled, and Marisol joined in, sharing the amusement. "He's like a Stingray look-alike," Marisol added, breaking into laughter and playfully slapping her knee as they both found humor in the uncanny resemblance.

Rosa, with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes, playfully wiggled her eyebrows, driving her point home. "Mama!" Carmen swatted her arm, and Marisol shot Rosa a bemused yet affectionate look. "Seriously, what's your deal?" Rosa feigned innocence as Carmen sighed. "She's convinced that in some alternate universe, we could be mother and daughter," Carmen explained, prompting Marisol to wear a contemplative expression. "You know, thinking about it, I can actually see it. I bear a stronger resemblance to you than to my own parents," Marisol remarked, causing Carmen's expression to momentarily falter.

"See," Rosa chimed in, pointing triumphantly, while Carmen rolled her eyes, exhaling in a mixture of amusement and exasperation at her mother's playful imagination.

"The moment demands something extraordinary, and for that, we have a special guest. Join me in giving a thunderous All Valley welcome to the multi-Grammy-award winning, international sensation, Carrie Underwood!" Ron's voice reverberated through the venue. Marisol, stealing a glance at Eli and Demetri on the mats, leaped to her feet, exuberantly jumping and squealing with uncontainable excitement.

"CARRIE UNDERWOOD! I LOVE YOU! YOU'RE MY FAVORITE COUNTRY SINGER!" she screamed, her enthusiasm reaching its peak. Eli, caught between embarrassment and amusement, couldn't help but cover his face, laughing nervously at Marisol's spirited declaration.

Demetri playfully nudged Eli in the side. "You're the one who got her into listening to that music, not me," he reminded Eli, who shot him a playful yet sheepish look.

Carmen turned her attention to Marisol, who had come to a stop in her jumping and appeared a bit dizzy, stumbling slightly. Concerned, Carmen quickly reached out, grabbing her arm to provide support. "Marisol, Siéntate por favor," she requested. Marisol giggled in response, complying and sitting down beside Carmen. "Carrie Underwood," she pointed with a grin, and Carmen nodded with a smile.

"Yes, Carrie Underwood... by the way, if you don't mind me asking, when was the last time you took your meds?" Carmen inquired, her concern shifting to a more serious tone as she looked after her friend.

TRANSLATION: Sit please.

Marisol released a frustrated groan. "Why does it always have to circle back to my meds? Can't I just savor the moment?" she snapped at Carmen, crossing her arms and directing her gaze down to the mat, avoiding eye contact. Realizing she had been rude, Marisol swiftly looked back up at Carmen, her expression softened with apology. "Sorry, I didn't mean to snap at you," she said, Carmen responding by gently rubbing her shoulder and offering a reassuring smile. "It's okay, mija," Carmen said with understanding, providing both forgiveness and support in that moment.

"I'm incredibly honored to be here. Growing up in Oklahoma, karate wasn't a big part of my world, but you all know my love for competition, just like these amazing young men and women," Carrie conveyed into the microphone. Carmen, Rosa, and Marisol erupted in cheers, enthusiastically pumping their fists in the air.

However, Marisol's initial excitement faded as she lowered her fists, a sudden realization hitting her. Hollis could have been among the competitors, but he had shifted his focus to full-time basketball after leaving Miyagi-Do. This revelation had come to light only the previous night when Marisol unintentionally overheard her Dad and Aunt Holly talking. Despite her persistent desire to get closer to Hollis, every attempt seemed to be thwarted by unforeseen obstacles, leaving her feeling a sense of missed opportunity.

"I've learned that everyone gets their shot, their moment in the spotlight. This one's yours," she emphasized, prompting Marisol to whistle and cheer. As Carrie Underwood began singing, Marisol bopped her head with a wide grin, fully immersed in the music.

Carefully observing the competition across the four different bases, she started to notice a subtle shift—Cobra Kai was integrating Miyagi-Do techniques into their approach. As her friends fought, a keen eye picked up on Therese and Eli, both appearing less confident than usual. Sam's occasional disdainful looks directed at Eli didn't go unnoticed.

When Therese took a break to drink water, she seized the opportunity to approach her. "I'll be back; I'm gonna talk to T," she informed Carmen and Rosa. "Okay," Carmen replied with a supportive smile, understanding the need for a conversation in the midst of the intense competition.

Approaching a referee, she inquired, "Hey, am I allowed to step onto the mat? My friend looks upset, and I want to talk to her." Gesturing toward Therese, the referee glanced at her and responded, "Yes, since she's taking a break for water. Just be sure not to interfere with any ongoing matches."

Affirming with a nod and a warm smile, Marisol walked over to Therese, who sported a noticeable frown. As she looked up, Therese questioned, "Hey, Mari. What's up?" Marisol responded by raising her eyebrows, adopting a mom-like expression. "What's going on? You don't seem as confident out there," she observed, concerned for her friend's demeanor during the competition.

Frustration evident, Therese tossed her water bottle down. "It's just... what if I mess up out there? My mom's here, expecting me to do well," she admitted, her self-doubt palpable.

Marisol tilted her head, wearing a thoughtful expression. "Therese, you're doing fantastic out there. What you're experiencing is just self-doubt. And why should you let your mom's expectations weigh you down during the fight?" she questioned, aiming to provide both reassurance and a fresh perspective.

Therese clicked her tongue in frustration. "My mom is ridiculously competitive. I've been through so many sports in my life, and I'm just feeling so drained. She wants me to excel in every single sport, and I have met those expectations so far. But this," she admitted, her voice wavering, tears forming in her eyes, "this is the toughest sport I've ever taken on. The pressure is just too much."

Marisol's lips parted, revealing a sympathetic frown. "I'm sorry, Therese. Don't let your mom's words affect you, okay? Stand up for yourself," she encouraged, her words interrupted as the referee signaled for her to step off the mat.

"We'll catch up later. Keep me posted on how things go with your mom. I have to head back to my seat," Marisol conveyed, a mix of concern and understanding in her eyes. Therese nodded, silently acknowledging the support, as Marisol made her way back to her seat, leaving Therese to face the ongoing competition with a renewed determination.

As the quarterfinals commenced, a wave of sympathy swept over her for Devon, who didn't make it to this stage. She anxiously observed the matches, her concern intensifying as she noticed Eli's lack of confidence. Regrettably, the opportunity to talk to him slipped away amidst the tension.

Her anxiety peaked as she witnessed Therese facing off against Tory. The suspense in the air was palpable, and her heart raced. However, it plummeted when Tory's hand was raised in victory, marking Therese's defeat. The disheartening realization that Cobra Kai, now adept in Miyagi-Do techniques courtesy of Robby, was excelling only deepened her unease.

Turning her attention to Therese's mom, she noticed an expression of fury etched across her face. Unable to contain herself, Marisol rose from her seat, maneuvered through the crowd, shot her daughter a stern glare, and briskly walked away, leaving behind a tense atmosphere in the aftermath of Therese's loss.

Therese's eyes darted toward Marisol in the crowd, panic evident in her expression. Catching Marisol's eye, she found a sympathetic frown, accompanied by a silent apology mouthed across the distance. As the weight of the defeat settled in, Daryl's voice echoed through the arena, declaring, "And with that, Eagle Fang's aspirations of clinching the Girls All Valley Champ title have gone up in smoke," casting a somber mood over the unfolding events.

Marisol's eyes widened with concern as she witnessed Kyler purposefully striding toward Eli, emanating hostility. Without a second thought, she leaped to her feet, navigating down the stairs and onto the sidelines. The urgency to boost Eli's confidence fueled her actions, especially since his self-esteem had taken a hit since Robby cut his hair.

Coming to a sudden halt, Marisol eavesdropped on Kyler's taunts. "Your little friends are lucky they didn't face Cobra Kai," he jeered. Eli turned around, prompting Kyler to further provoke, "Can't say the same for you though, Lip," while pointing at the scar on his lip. Marisol shot Kyler a searing glare, determined to shield Eli from the negativity and offer him the support he needed.

"Fuck you, Kyler. Will you ever grow up?" she spat at him, her frustration evident. Kyler looked at her and let out a mocking laugh. "Cervantes, you can't do shit. You're not even fighting today. Plus, you're crippled, you have a cast," he taunted, trying to get under her skin.

Marisol clenched her fists by her side, a surge of anger welling up within her. "Oh yeah-" she started to take a step forward, ready to confront him, but Eli intervened. He put his hand out, shaking his head as a silent plea for restraint. Marisol unclenched her fists, exhaling in an effort to calm herself, while Kyler laughed and walked away, leaving behind a tense atmosphere on the sidelines.

Marisol turned to Eli, her voice laced with reassurance. "Just ignore him. He's a bully, always will be, but that's not who you are," she urged, her gaze conveying a sense of conviction in her words. Eli raised his eyebrows, a mix of gratitude and skepticism in his expression. "I don't know who I am these days, Mars," he admitted, his words carrying the weight of uncertainty about his identity, hinting at the internal struggles he was facing.

Her expression shifted from a frown to a gentle smile as she gazed at him. "You're not defined by your haircut, you know. I don't care about your mohawk, your tattoos, or your body. I mean, don't get me wrong, I loved your mohawk and the different colors. I was really digging the purple, actually, but I always loved the blue more. But I like you for your energy, your confidence, you," she reassured, her words carrying a sincerity that went beyond physical appearances, highlighting the deeper qualities that drew her to him.

Eli shrugged, his demeanor revealing the weight of lost confidence. "Yeah, well, I lost my confidence. So..." he trailed off, a hint of vulnerability in his voice. Marisol sighed, sensing his struggle, and took a determined step forward. "Eli..." she paused, her expression filled with understanding before she cupped his face, initiating a passionate kiss.

He responded, feeling the renewed surge of confidence with each tender moment. This kiss transcended the others, carrying an intensity that felt like true love. As they parted, Marisol gazed at him with soft eyes. "Now you go out there and kick Kyler's ass," she encouraged, her words infused with both love and empowerment, a potent mix to bolster his spirits.

His chuckle resonated as he affectionately kissed her cheek. "Gladly," he responded, turning towards the mat with newfound determination. Marisol blew him a kiss before gracefully returning to her seat, where she settled down.

"So?" Rosa wiggled her eyebrows, eager for details. "Creo que estoy enamorado," Marisol admitted with dreamy eyes, her gaze unwaveringly fixed on Eli. The confession carried an air of affection and excitement, creating a lighthearted moment amidst the intense karate competition.

TRANSLATION: I think I'm in love.

Carmen cracked a knowing grin. "Have you told him yet?" she asked Marisol, who shook her head with a hint of bashfulness. They both watched the intense battle between Eli and Kyler unfold. Marisol's heart raced as Eli's hand was triumphantly raised.

Unable to contain her excitement, Marisol leaped to her feet, clapping her hands enthusiastically. "Yeah, go Eli!" she shouted, adding a spirited whistle to the mix. Eli grinned in her direction, acknowledging the support. In response, Marisol not only clapped but blew a kiss, her joy and pride evident in the celebration of Eli's victorious moment.

The spotlight shifted to Sam as she gracefully bowed in front of Piper. "Go, Sam! I know you've got this!" Marisol's enthusiastic cheer resonated in the arena. With rapt attention, she observed the unfolding confrontation between Sam and Piper. Marisol couldn't help but notice Piper's snarky comments, causing her to furrow her eyebrows in disapproval.

To her surprise, Sam responded with a nod to Johnny, signaling a shift in strategy. As Sam reengaged with Piper, Marisol's eyes widened at the display of Eagle-Fang techniques. The intensity of the fight gripped the audience.

In the end, Sam emerged victorious, securing the win. "YEAH, SAM!" Marisol couldn't contain her excitement, clapping her hands in a spirited celebration of her friend's impressive triumph in the ring.

Worry creased Marisol's brow as she closely observed Robby's unsettlingly violent behavior towards Kenny during their fight. The palpable influence of Cobra Kai on him was a cause for deep concern. As the tournament reached the Semi-Finals with Miguel facing Eli, Marisol found herself caught in a conflicting dilemma – torn between rooting for her best friend, Miguel, and her boyfriend, Eli.

Caught in the internal struggle, Marisol adjusted herself in her spot, her eyes scanning the tension in the arena. "Miguel seems upset," she remarked, voicing her observations to Carmen. A sigh escaped Carmen's lips, mirroring Marisol's worry. "I hope he's okay. Johnny and him have been having some arguments lately," she shared, adding another layer of concern to the already intense atmosphere of the tournament.

With both Miguel and Eli on the mat, Marisol couldn't contain her enthusiasm. "Go, Miguel and Eli!" she cheered, smiling at the exchange of their handshake that showcased the friendship amidst the competition. As the fight unfolded, a mysterious and uneasy feeling churned in Marisol's gut, adding a layer of tension to the atmosphere.

Then, in a sudden turn of events, Miguel executed a jump, delivering a twist spin kick. Marisol's eyes widened, captivated by the display. Rising to her feet in excitement, her mouth fell open, only to transform into a horrified scream as Miguel's back audibly cracked, and he crumpled to the ground. The urgency in his cries for Johnny heightened the intensity of the moment, sending shockwaves through the arena. The collective gasp of the audience mirrored Marisol's own distress at the unexpected turn of events.

In the medic room alongside Miguel and his family, a collective sigh of relief swept through the air as the medic delivered encouraging news. "Good news. Looks like it's just a pulled muscle. It may ache, but you'll be fine," the medic reassured them. Marisol, feeling a weight lifted off her shoulders, couldn't help but quietly mutter, "Thank fuck," expressing her sheer relief.

Picking nervously at her lips, she observed as Miguel turned to the medic, a subtle sadness in his eyes. "So, does that mean that I can keep fighting?" he inquired, and Marisol, attuned to his emotions, detected a note of longing. The medic responded with a practical outlook, "They've given you thirty minutes to recover. So let the pain guide you. If it's telling you to sit this one out, I'd listen. I'll get you an ice pack," offering advice as Miguel nodded, contemplating the impending decision, the weight of the tournament hanging in the balance.

Completing the salute, Marisol conveyed her worry to Miguel. "You be careful, okay? I'm gonna go see Eli and tell him what's up," she informed him. Miguel nodded, his expression reflecting concern as he watched her leave the medic room. Stepping outside, Marisol found Eli sitting on a bench. He stood up, eyebrows raised in anticipation. "Is he okay?" Eli asked, a tinge of panic in his look, eager for updates on Miguel's condition.

Marisol planted her hands firmly on her hips. "No, looks like he has to go to the hospital," she quipped sarcastically, observing the worry that crossed Eli's face as he anxiously parted his lips. Offering a serious look, she clarified, "I was joking. He's fine. He has thirty minutes to recover, and after that, if he wants to sit out, he will. You'll win by default and go up against..." The anticipation in Eli's eyes mirrored the suspenseful atmosphere of the tournament.

"Robby," they both uttered in unison. Marisol clicked her tongue, a gesture of mild frustration, and ran her hand down her face. Softening her tone, she asked Robby, "Will you be okay if you have to go up against him?" His response came with a cheeky grin. "Duh." The subtle exchange conveyed a mix of tension and confidence, setting the stage for the upcoming challenge in the tournament.

Her laughter subsided as she noticed Mila darting out of the boys' locker room with Anthony. Reacting quickly, Marisol grabbed Mila by the arm, a puzzled expression on her face. Clearing her throat, she confronted her friend, "Something you gotta tell me? Why were you in the boys' locker room with Anthony?" Arching a brow, Marisol sought an explanation, her tone indicating a mix of curiosity and concern.

Mila briskly pulled her arm away, punctuating it with an eye roll. "It's not what you think, Mar. We were trying to talk to Kenny, but he went batshit crazy and punched Anthony," she explained, watching as Marisol's expression shifted, glancing over at Eli. Eli, seizing the opportunity, tried to reason, "See, I've never liked him."

Marisol sighed in response, a mixture of disappointment and concern evident in her expression. "Just stay away from him, okay?" she urged Mila, her tone carrying a protective undertone, emphasizing the need for caution in dealing with Kenny's volatile behavior.

Miguel's absence for the match stirred worry in Carmen and Rosa, prompting them to leave in search of him. Left alone on the bleachers, Marisol's anxiety heightened. Now, it was Robby and Eli's fight. Nervously biting her bottom lip, Marisol faced the uncertainty of the upcoming match with a sense of apprehension. As they stepped onto the mat, each point in the ensuing fight quickened her heartbeat. Perched on the edge of her seat, Marisol became fully engrossed in the intense match, emotions running high with every move.

The sudden blare of the buzzer filled the air, marking the onset of overtime and leaving her in a state of sheer astonishment. It was a rarity, a phenomenon not witnessed since the bygone year of 1985. The announcer's voice echoed through the arena, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of the moment.

"Unbelievable! These two extraordinary competitors have pushed the boundaries, reaching the conclusion of their three-minute time limit in a captivating one-on-one tie! As a result, their championship match, for the first time in nearly four decades since 1985, will now be settled by sudden death overtime!"

The gravity of the situation hung in the air, infusing the already intense competition with an unprecedented sense of anticipation and excitement. It was a historical juncture, etching a new chapter in the annals of their sporting rivalry.

A momentary pause gripped Marisol's chest when Eli sent her a sly wink, as if time itself had slowed down to savor the exchange. The unfolding match, a dance of martial prowess, became a tableau of deliberate movements.

In a tactical response, Robby, Eli's opponent, initiated a move – removing the top part of his gi, perhaps hoping to plant a seed of intimidation. However, it was Marisol's gaze that remained fixed on Eli, tracking his every move, especially as both competitors mirrored the gesture.

As the fabric fell away, revealing skin adorned with purpose, Marisol's attention focused on Eli's chest, where a tattoo unfolded its narrative: a sun with a gentle wave beneath. It held a profound meaning, a symbolism that resonated deeply with Marisol – sea and sun, a manifestation of Mary of solitude. The name "Marisol," of Spanish origin, echoed through her mind, a revelation from her father during her childhood, a piece of personal history she had shared with Eli in the early days of their friendship. The ink on Eli's skin became a living testament to the connection they had forged over time.

As the arena erupted in a kaleidoscope of flashing lights, he held the gleaming trophy aloft, a triumphant symbol of his hard-fought win. Caught up in the electrifying atmosphere, she sprang to her feet, a chorus of exuberant screams and whistles escaping her. "YEAH, ELI!!!" she hollered, her voice resonating with unbridled joy.

In the midst of her celebration, she couldn't help but glance at Robby, who, in stark contrast, expressed his frustration by slamming his clenched fists onto the mat. The contrasting emotions painted a vivid picture of the intensity and stakes of the competition, etching the moment into the memory of everyone present.

The spotlight shifted to Sam, and the ensuing skirmish carried a fervor, though not quite reaching the pinnacle set by the Robby and Eli clash. Sam danced on the brink of triumph, her moves precise and poised, until an unexpected twist altered the course.

In a moment that felt like a fraction of a second, Tory's elbow inadvertently met Sam's eye. Marisol, positioned to witness the unfolding drama, caught the remorseful look on Tory's face. She knew it was an accident, a collision of limbs in the heat of the match.

Despite Tory's unintentional action, the consequences were undeniable. Sam, affected by the unexpected blow, found herself caught off guard for the remainder of the fight. The dynamics shifted, and the match continued with an undercurrent of concern for Sam's well-being, introducing an element of unpredictability to the already intense competition.

In that crucial moment of sportsmanship, Marisol felt a profound intuition that Tory's unintended action wasn't malicious. As they stood with linked hands, a hushed exchange passed between them, carrying an unexpected sincerity. It wasn't snark; it resonated more like an apology, a sentiment echoed in Sam's puzzled yet slightly reassured expression.

Caught between the lines of confusion and comprehension, Marisol observed the nuanced dynamics unfold. Tory, abruptly pulled away by her teammates, became part of a joyous celebration. They lifted her by the waist, jubilantly bouncing up and down, creating a vivid contrast to the earlier tense moments. It was a snapshot of the intricate balance between competition and camaraderie in the unpredictable arena of the match.

As Terry took the stage, seizing the microphone to expound on his latest Cobra Kai dojos across the Valley, Marisol found herself entirely disinterested. Her singular focus was on ensuring Sam's well-being. Disregarding the unfolding announcement, Marisol descended the bleacher stairs with purpose, closing the distance to Sam, who was in the company of her father and Johnny.

"Hey, are you okay?" Marisol's concern rang through her words as she addressed Sam, her gaze unwavering. In that moment, the background noise of Terry's announcement faded, and the genuine connection between friends took precedence amidst the echoes of the unfolding events.

Sam's abrupt turn confronted Marisol with cutting words. "Just go away, Marisol. Go suck face with Eli in front of me again," Sam's tone held a sharp edge, leaving Marisol momentarily taken aback, her brows furrowing in confusion.

Marisol, however, wasn't one to stay silent. Frustration and disbelief colored her response. "How is this my fault?" she fired back, her voice a mix of exasperation and genuine confusion. "I've known Eli longer than you. I have more history with him than you do! Why are you making this all about you? Can't you be happy for me?" Her words reverberated with intensity just as Eli approached from behind, entering the fray of the escalating exchange. The air hung heavy with tension as the trio grappled with the complexities of their intertwined histories.

Sam's head shook, a cascade of frustration evident in her demeanor. "Just leave me alone," she spat at Marisol, her look infused with disbelief, creating an air of unresolved tension. Marisol, undeterred, shot a fierce glare in response, jaw clenched in silent restraint.

As this personal confrontation played out, Terry positioned himself as an observer, arms folded with a smirk etched on his face. In that moment, it became clear that his interest extended beyond the immediate conflict – he had set his sights on recruiting Marisol, injecting a layer of strategic maneuvering into the unfolding drama within the arena.

—

ash speaks!

And that's a wrap for Season Four!!
I am so excited to write Season Five.
Marisol will try to figure herself out,
but it won't be that easy. I hope you
guys will enjoy!! I am sad that I'm close
to be done with this book until Season Six:(
I'm gonna miss Marisol and Eli.

Thanks for 8k views!!!