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Belle stood resolutely beside Miguel in the dojo, her arms crossed and her jaw set as Johnny and Daniel paced back and forth in front of the gathered students. The air was thick with tension, the kind that came before a storm. Every pair of eyes in the room was locked on their senseis, waiting for what was to come.

Johnny stopped mid-stride and turned to face the group, his expression serious but charged with his trademark intensity. "The Sekai Taikai is coming," he announced, his voice commanding attention. "It's up to us to pick our seven most badass fighters."

Daniel nodded and stepped forward to stand beside Johnny, his hands clasped in front of him. "And there are no easy decisions here," he added, his tone quieter but no less serious. "We know how much this means to all of you. We know you all wanna go to Barcelona."

Johnny smirked and folded his arms. "Some of you," he said, "are shoo-ins. You're at the top of your game. You've trained hard enough that nothing-and I mean nothing-can stop you."

Daniel scanned the room, his eyes softening as they landed on the newer students. "And some of you feel like the underdogs. Like no matter how hard you try, you're never quite good enough. You don't know if you have what it takes. You feel left out. Left behind."

Johnny pointed a finger at them, his tone rising. "Well, let me tell you something. This dojo doesn't care where you started. It's a level playing field. Anything can happen."

Daniel stepped closer, addressing the group with a note of encouragement in his voice. "Each and every one of you has a shot. And as we make our evaluations, all we're asking is that you give it your best."

Johnny's gaze swept over the students, landing briefly on Clementine before moving to Belle and Miguel. "Now is not the time to puss out," he said with a sharp edge, walking past Belle and throwing a quick jab toward her. Without hesitation, Belle raised her hand and blocked the punch, her reflexes sharp and instinctive. Johnny grinned, clearly pleased, and fist-bumped Clementine as he passed her.

"Nice reflexes," he muttered to Belle, who gave a small nod, her face betraying nothing but focus.

Daniel took over again, his voice more earnest now. "Even though we're competing against each other for spots, we are still one dojo. Miyagi-Do and Eagle Fang are stronger together, and this is the time to prove it-to bring out the best in all of us."

Johnny's voice rang out like a challenge. "So, which of you has what it takes to be in our top seven?"

For a moment, the dojo was silent, the students exchanging glances as the weight of the competition settled over them. Then, Belle took a deep breath and stepped onto the training deck, her expression calm but determined.

Without a word, she launched into action, spinning around with a high kick that cut through the air like a blade. The sound of her foot snapping through the motion echoed in the room, and all eyes were on her as she followed the kick with a series of rapid punches. Each movement was precise, fluid, and powerful, a testament to her dedication and countless hours of training.

Belle finished her demonstration with a confident stance, one hand held high by her face, the other extended in front of her, steady and unwavering. Her chest rose and fell with controlled breaths as she met the eyes of her senseis. There was no hesitation, no doubt.

Johnny smirked and gave a sharp nod of approval, while Daniel's expression softened with pride. Belle stepped back into line, her confidence radiating outward, a silent promise that she was ready for whatever challenge lay ahead.

The cafeteria buzzed with chatter and the clinking of trays, but Belle barely noticed. She sat at a table near the window, staring at her half-eaten salad, absently spinning her fork between her fingers. Her usual bright smile was replaced by a furrowed brow as her thoughts spiraled.

"Hey, Belle!" Moon's melodic voice broke through the haze. Belle looked up just in time to see her friend bouncing toward the table, her bracelets jingling with each step and a big, cheery smile on her face.

"Moon!" Belle exclaimed, a flicker of her usual enthusiasm returning as she waved her over. "Sit with me. I need your good vibes."

"Good vibes are what I do best," Moon said, plopping down across from her and setting her colorful lunchbox on the table. She immediately noticed the distant look in Belle's eyes. "Okay, what's up? You're usually the one radiating sunshine and rainbows. Spill."

Belle sighed dramatically, resting her chin in her hand. "It's the Sekai Taikai evaluations," she admitted. "I've been practicing nonstop, but... what if I don't make it? What if I'm not good enough? Everyone else is so amazing. Miguel, Hawk, Sam-they're practically guaranteed spots. I'm just... me."

Moon's brows furrowed slightly, but her smile didn't waver. "Whoa, hold on. You? Just you? Belle, you're like the human embodiment of glitter and determination. Don't sell yourself short."

Belle let out a soft laugh, but it was tinged with doubt. "Glitter and determination don't always win tournaments, Moon. And it's not just about me. This is a huge deal for everyone. I don't want to let the dojo down."

Moon reached across the table and clasped Belle's hands in hers, her blue eyes filled with warmth. "Okay, first of all, deep breaths," she said, demonstrating a slow inhale and exhale. Belle mirrored her, and they both giggled as Moon added, "Good, now we're grounding ourselves."

Belle smiled despite herself. "You're such a hippie."

"And proud of it!" Moon replied with a playful wink. "But seriously, Belle, you need to stop overthinking this. You've been training so hard. You've put your heart into this, and trust me, it shows. Everyone sees it."

Belle's smile faltered, and she toyed with her fork again. "What if my best isn't enough?"

Moon leaned forward, her expression softening. "Belle, your best is enough. It's not about being perfect or better than anyone else. It's about showing up, giving it your all, and trusting yourself. You've got that spark in you, and that's what sets you apart."

"I don't feel very sparkly right now," Belle admitted with a weak chuckle.

"Then let me remind you," Moon said, her voice taking on a gentle, almost meditative tone. "You're like... a shooting star. You shine brightest when you're moving forward, when you're being you. The universe didn't put you here to doubt yourself. It put you here to show everyone just how incredible you are."

Belle blinked, her chest warming at Moon's words. "You really think the universe has my back?"

Moon grinned. "Absolutely. The universe is rooting for you, Belle. And so am I. You just have to root for yourself, too."

Belle's eyes welled up, but she quickly blinked the tears away and gave Moon a heartfelt smile. "Thank you. I needed that more than I realized."

"Anytime," Moon said, reaching into her lunchbox for an avocado roll. "Now, eat your lunch! You're gonna need your energy if you're going to slay those evaluations."

Belle laughed, her bubbly nature resurfacing. "You're right. I'm gonna need a ton of energy if I'm gonna karate-kick my way to Barcelona."

Moon held up her roll like a toast. "To Barcelona!"

"To Barcelona!" Belle echoed, clinking her sandwich against Moon's sushi. The two of them dissolved into giggles, and for the first time all day, Belle felt lighter, like she really could take on the world.

The dojo was alive with the shuffling of feet and the murmur of voices as Johnny's shout rang out. "Everyone, fall in!" His tone left no room for delay. Belle straightened, exchanging a brief glance with Miguel before hurrying into place beside him.

Daniel stepped forward, his expression calm but serious. "Please welcome our guest for the weekend: Sensei Barnes."

As the words registered, Belle's brow furrowed. She leaned slightly toward Miguel, her voice low but tinged with curiosity. "Isn't that the guy from the Silver house fight?"

Miguel shot her a warning glance, but before he could respond, Belle realized her mistake. She felt heat creep up her cheeks and shut her eyes, bracing herself.

"Silence!" The voice boomed across the room like a crack of thunder. Sensei Barnes' glare cut through the group, though his eyes lingered pointedly on Clementine, who stood a few feet away, fidgeting nervously.

Daniel cleared his throat, breaking the tension. "In order to keep things unbiased," he began, his tone carefully diplomatic, "we've brought in Sensei Barnes to observe and select our top seven for the Sekai Taikai."

Barnes stepped forward, the heavy thud of his boots making the floorboards creak. His presence was commanding, almost predatory, as his sharp gaze swept over the group. "During my years as the Tournament Terror-" he paused, letting the ominous nickname sink in, "-all I wanted was a shot at the Sekai Taikai. But I blew my chance." His eyes narrowed slightly as they landed on Daniel.

Belle stood frozen, watching the tension between the two senseis unfold. Then Barnes turned his attention directly to her, and her heart skipped a beat.

"Oh, you're the famous Belle Wu," he said, a faint smirk playing on his lips. "I'll be keeping an eye on you. Your senseis have told me you've been progressing pretty well. And I knew your moms."

The room seemed to go silent as Belle swallowed hard, unsure of how to respond. Barnes' words felt heavy, almost calculated, but she forced herself to nod politely, though her fingers twitched with nerves.

"As I was saying," Barnes continued, his voice sharp and impatient, "I'm here to ensure that every one of you maximizes your potential. And let me tell you something-this tournament isn't some friendly sparring match. Everyone I know who's participated in the Sekai Taikai has horror stories. This thing is brutal. It's unpredictable. People have died. So, I'll ask you-who's ready for that?"

The dojo was silent. Belle felt a chill run down her spine as Barnes' words hung ominously in the air. She glanced at Miguel, who was standing as still as a statue, his jaw tight with determination.

Barnes' gaze roamed the group like a hawk searching for weakness. "I'm not here to coddle you," he said, his tone icy. "I will do to you what the Sekai Taikai will do. I'll surprise you with events, push you to your limits. And if any of you delicate flowers feel like running to your senseis to cry about it-don't. I've been given full authority over these eliminations."

Daniel shifted uncomfortably beside him. "Selections," he corrected gently. "Let's keep this positive."

Barnes' sharp laugh echoed through the dojo. "Positive? You came to me, LaRusso. The deal was my way or the highway."

Belle's eyebrows raised slightly at the tension between the senseis, but she wisely kept her mouth shut. Her curiosity, however, was evident in the way she darted her gaze between them.

Barnes' voice sliced through the room again. "Get on the sparring deck."

For a moment, no one moved, the weight of his command pressing down on them.

"I said NOW!" Barnes roared, the force of his voice like a whip cracking through the air.

Belle flinched but quickly recovered, her body moving before her mind could catch up. She was the first to step onto the deck, her back straight and her face set with determination. Barnes' eyes flicked toward her, and for a split second, she thought she saw a glimmer of approval.

One by one, the others followed her lead, their footsteps hesitant but steady. Barnes nodded subtly, his arms crossing over his chest as he watched them take their positions.

The real challenge was about to begin, and Belle knew this was her moment to prove herself. Every instinct told her that Barnes wasn't bluffing-this was going to be a test unlike anything she'd faced before.

The dojo buzzed with anticipation as the students lined up on the sparring deck, their energy tense but focused. Sensei Barnes stood at the edge, his arms crossed, surveying them with a sharp, almost predatory gaze. His voice was firm, commanding their attention.

"All right, let's see what you've got. Remember, strength isn't just about muscle," he began, pacing deliberately. "It's about technique, precision, and-above all-control."

Robby stepped forward, a stack of wooden boards tucked under one arm. He pulled a single board free and held it horizontally at chest height. "Ready, Belle?" he asked with a small grin.

Belle inhaled deeply, her fists tightening at her sides. "Let's do this," she said, stepping up. Her heart pounded in her chest, but she shoved the nerves aside, her focus narrowing to the board in front of her.

She squared her stance, her weight evenly distributed, and locked her eyes on her target. With a swift, explosive punch, her knuckles connected with the center of the board. A loud CRACK echoed through the dojo as the board split cleanly in two, the force of the blow sending the halves tumbling out of Robby's grip.

Robby raised his eyebrows, visibly impressed. "Nice one, Bells." He held out a hand for a high-five, which she accepted with a beaming smile.

Barnes observed from the side, his expression unreadable, though there was a flicker of approval in his eyes. "Not bad," he muttered, just loud enough for Belle to hear.

Robby reached for another board, this one slightly thicker, and raised it higher-just above his shoulder height. "Think you can hit this one?" he teased, a playful challenge in his voice.

Belle stepped back, rolling her shoulders to loosen up. "Watch me," she said with a confident smirk. She exhaled, steadying her breath, then pivoted sharply on one foot, her other leg swinging out in a flawless roundhouse kick. Her foot connected with the board in a resounding impact, and the wood shattered into pieces that clattered onto the deck.

She landed smoothly, her movements fluid and controlled, and turned to face Sensei Barnes. The students behind her murmured in admiration, their respect for her growing with every display of skill.

Barnes approached, his boots thudding heavily against the floor. He stopped in front of Belle, scrutinizing her with his piercing gaze. Finally, he gave a single nod, a hint of a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Good speed and accuracy, Wu. You're fast-very fast-but don't mistake speed for control. Keep refining your technique. Precision will always beat raw power."

Belle nodded, her cheeks flushing slightly with pride. "Yes, Sensei," she said, her voice steady.

Robby grinned as she returned to her spot, holding out his hand for another high-five. "You're crushing it," he said warmly.

"Thanks," she replied, her smile widening. Her eyes flicked over to Miguel, who was watching from the sidelines with a proud, reassuring smile of his own. She gave him a small nod, her confidence bolstered by his silent support.

As the next student stepped forward, Belle crossed her arms and watched intently. Each demonstration was a lesson, and she soaked it all in-studying their stances, their strikes, and their weaknesses.

The sparring deck became a proving ground, each student eager to impress Barnes and secure their place in the coveted top seven. The air was thick with determination, but Belle stood tall, her resolve unwavering. She had proven herself once today, and she was ready to do it again. This was her moment, and she wasn't going to let it slip away.

The dojo was abuzz with anticipation as the students gathered around the sparring deck, every movement tinged with nervous energy. The hum of low whispers and shuffling feet filled the air, but all fell silent as Sensei Barnes stepped forward, a clipboard in hand. He cast a hard look over the group, his presence alone commanding absolute attention.

"Congratulations," he began, his tone a blend of sarcasm and challenge. "You didn't die." A few students chuckled nervously, but his stern expression silenced them quickly. "Still, half of you wouldn't last a single match at the Sekai Taikai." His words hit like a hammer, driving home the gravity of the competition.

Barnes shifted his stance, holding the clipboard like a judge about to deliver a verdict. "To the thirteen of you who might survive-join me up here when I call your name."

A palpable tension gripped the room as he scanned the list. His sharp eyes darted up to the group. "Belle," he called out first, his voice cutting through the silence.

Belle's heart leaped in her chest. A grin spread across her face as she turned to Miguel, fist-bumping him before stepping up onto the deck. She held her head high, a wave of pride and determination washing over her as she took her place. This was her moment, and she wouldn't let it slip away.

"Hawk," Barnes announced next. Eli strode forward confidently, pausing to give Clementine a quick hug before joining Belle. His presence brought a new buzz of energy to the group.

"Robby. Miguel. Sam. Tory," Barnes continued, each name raising the excitement in the room. When he paused before the next name, tension crackled in the air.

"Muscles," he said, smirking slightly.

Belle's brow furrowed as she exchanged a puzzled glance with Sam and Tory. "Muscles?" they said in unison, their voices low but curious.

Barnes pointed at Mitch, whose jaw dropped in surprise. "Yeah, you," he said flatly, as if it should've been obvious.

Mitch's face lit up as he pointed at himself dramatically. "I have a new nickname!" he exclaimed, walking up to the deck with a comical spring in his step. Belle chuckled softly, shaking her head as Mitch reached the top. She leaned over and fist-bumped him, unable to hide her amusement.

"Kenny. Chris. Demetri," Barnes called next, his tone steady as the students stepped forward one by one. When he glanced down at his clipboard again, he mumbled something under his breath, letting the suspense hang in the air for a moment. The pause was excruciating.

"Devon," he finally announced. Devon exhaled in relief, jogging to the deck with a determined look.

Barnes straightened, looking out at the remaining students, his voice dropping a notch as he called the final name. "And the last name... Anthony."

Anthony's face lit up in shock and excitement as the others cheered for him. Belle stepped forward to high-five him as he joined the group, his smile infectious. "You earned it, Anthony," she said warmly.

"Congratulations, top thirteen," Barnes declared, his tone sharp but not unkind. "You've made it through round one. Meet me back here tomorrow morning for round two. As for the rest of you..." His gaze shifted to the students still standing in the main group. "You're out. Better luck next time."

The air grew heavy with mixed emotions as the thirteen chosen fighters stood on the deck, exchanging glances and quiet murmurs of both excitement and apprehension. Belle glanced at the faces of those who didn't make it-some downcast, others visibly frustrated. The sting of disappointment was palpable, a stark reminder of how high the stakes were.

As the students began to disperse, Belle lingered on the deck for a moment, taking in the gravity of what had just happened. She looked around at her fellow top thirteen, feeling a strong surge of camaraderie but also knowing that this was just the beginning. The real test was yet to come.

Miguel caught her eye from across the deck, giving her a small but encouraging smile. She returned it, her resolve hardening. Making it this far was a victory, but it wasn't enough. Not yet. Belle knew she had to keep pushing, keep fighting-for herself, for her dojo, and for the dream that was just within reach.

The dojo was alive with nervous energy as Sensei Barnes's commanding voice cut through the tension. "Top 12, get ready!" The fighters, a select group of determined competitors, stood shoulder to shoulder in a line, each wearing their battle scars from the earlier rounds like badges of honor. The weight of what was at stake-Barcelona and the Sekai Taikai-hung heavy in the air, sharpening their focus.

Each fighter sized up their opponents, their eyes darting from one flag to the next. The flags were tied to their belts, bright markers that represented victory or defeat. A mix of excitement and anxiety charged the room, every breath measured, every stance ready. Sensei Barnes paced before them, his predatory gaze scrutinizing the line like a hawk circling its prey. He exuded authority, daring anyone to show a sign of weakness.

"Today's challenge is Battle Royale," Barnes announced, his tone hard and unyielding. "The rules are simple: Protect your flags. Steal your opponents'. Lose your flags, and you're out. The ones with the most flags at the end will advance to Barcelona. The rest will be judged on performance. Impress me-or don't bother showing up tomorrow."

Belle felt her pulse quicken, the rhythm echoing in her ears. Her hands curled into fists at her sides as she glanced down at the flags tied to her belt. The bright, colorful markers seemed to taunt her, reminding her that her place in the competition could be snatched away just as quickly as she could take someone else's. This wasn't just about strength or technique-it was about strategy, endurance, and outsmarting the opponent.

She stole a glance at Miguel, standing a few spots down the line. His expression was calm, focused. But when their eyes met, a flicker of softness broke through. Despite their bond, there was an unspoken understanding between them: neither would take it easy on the other.

"You have two minutes," Barnes barked. His voice snapped everyone to attention, their bodies tightening like coiled springs. "Ready?"

Belle's heart pounded in her chest, adrenaline flooding her system. She exhaled sharply, centering herself. Two minutes to prove she belonged among the best. Two minutes to fight her way to the top.

"Fight!"

The dojo erupted into chaos. Fighters surged into action, bodies colliding in a whirlwind of fists, kicks, and desperate grabs. The air was filled with grunts, the slap of feet against the mat, and the sharp crack of strikes landing.

Belle immediately ducked, narrowly avoiding a fist aimed at her head. She twisted on her heel, slipping through the fray with practiced precision. Her eyes darted across the room, scanning for an opening. Her first target had to be chosen wisely.

Her gaze locked onto Miguel, who was already in the thick of it, fending off two opponents at once. His movements were a symphony of fluidity and precision, each block and counter executed with seamless grace. Despite the intensity of the fight, Miguel's expression remained calm, his focus unbroken.

Belle smirked. She wouldn't let their relationship cloud her determination. If she wanted to win, she couldn't hold back-not even against him.

With a burst of speed, Belle launched herself toward him, weaving through the chaos with agility. Miguel spotted her at the last second, his eyes widening in surprise as she dove in, aiming for one of his flags. He twisted just in time, blocking her with his forearm. Their eyes met in the heat of the moment.

"You're quick," Miguel muttered, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth as their movements became a blur of strikes and counters.

"Faster than you," Belle shot back, her tone breathless but teasing.

She feigned a high kick to his right, drawing his guard up, then pivoted smoothly, her hand darting out to snatch one of his flags. The fabric slipped into her palm, and she yanked it free before he could react.

"One down," she quipped, her grin wide as she ducked under his counterstrike.

Miguel's chuckle was low and impressed. "Not bad."

But Belle wasn't done. With swift precision, she slipped past his guard again, her movements quick and deceptive. Her fingers closed around a second flag, pulling it free. Before Miguel could retaliate, she spun away, her laughter light but triumphant.

"Two for two," she said over her shoulder, winking at him as she dashed back into the chaos.

Miguel shook his head, a grin tugging at his lips despite himself. "She's unstoppable," he muttered under his breath, refocusing on the fight.

Belle didn't linger to bask in her victory. Her eyes scanned the room for her next challenge and landed on Devon, who was holding her ground against a much larger fighter. Devon's defensive stance was tight, her movements sharp and calculated as she blocked a flurry of aggressive strikes. But her opponent wasn't letting up, circling her like a predator looking for an opening.

Belle sprinted toward her, weaving through the chaos with ease. Devon's determination was evident in the way she countered her opponent's attacks, but Belle could see the slight strain in her movements. This was her chance to strike while her competitor was distracted.

Timing her approach perfectly, Belle darted in from the side, her hand shooting toward one of Devon's flags. Devon caught the movement out of the corner of her eye and spun to block, her arm snapping up just in time. Their gazes locked, and for a split second, there was a mutual recognition of the challenge.

"You're sneaky," Devon said, a grin tugging at her lips despite the tension in her stance.

"I prefer strategic," Belle shot back, lunging again.

Devon twisted, narrowly evading Belle's grab. She countered with a quick kick, forcing Belle to retreat a step before coming back at her. The two clashed in a blur of strikes and counters, each trying to outwit the other. Devon's sharp reflexes kept Belle on her toes, but Belle's persistence and speed were relentless.

Belle feigned a grab for the flag on Devon's left, drawing her guard to that side, before switching directions mid-movement. Her hand darted to the flag on Devon's right hip, yanking it free before Devon could recover.

"Gotcha!" Belle grinned, holding the flag up as she darted away.

Devon's eyes narrowed, her smile shifting into a determined smirk. "Not bad. But don't think I'm done with you yet."

Belle laughed as she disappeared back into the chaos, already scanning for her next opponent. Every step, every decision, was a calculated move in this fast-paced battle. The stakes were too high to let her guard down, and she was determined to make it to the top.

The chaos of the dojo was a symphony of shouts, grunts, and the rhythmic smack of strikes landing. Belle darted through the fray, her body moving on instinct as she fought off challengers. She'd just countered a fierce roundhouse kick from Demetri when something in her peripheral vision drew her attention.

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Kenny shoving Anthony hard into the wall. The sound of the impact echoed through the room, and Belle's stomach twisted in alarm. Kenny's face was a mask of determination, his hands clawing at Anthony's flags as he pressed him against the wall.

Belle's head whipped around fully, her heart jumping. "Anthony!" she shouted, her voice rising above the chaos. For a moment, she started to move toward him, her protective instincts kicking in.

But before she could take a step, a sharp kick from Eli snapped her back to reality. His foot barely missed her ribs, and the force of his next strike sent her stumbling backward.

"Eyes on me, Belle," Eli warned, his tone a mix of challenge and camaraderie.

Belle's focus narrowed back to the fight in front of her. Eli came at her hard, his strikes fast and unrelenting. His punches were precise, his kicks calculated. Each blow tested her endurance, forcing her to block and counter with everything she had.

Her arms burned from deflecting his hits, but she didn't back down. Belle had fought alongside Eli before; she knew how skilled he was, how dangerous. He wasn't pulling any punches, and she didn't expect him to.

Still, her mind kept drifting to Anthony. She could see him out of the corner of her eye, struggling against Kenny's assault. Anthony's back was pressed against the wall, his face contorted in frustration as Kenny's hands grappled for his flags.

Belle's teeth clenched. She had to finish this fight and help Anthony.

Eli threw a jab aimed at her shoulder, but Belle sidestepped, using his momentum against him. She feinted left, drawing his guard, and then spun to the right. Her hand shot out, snatching a flag from his belt before he could react.

Eli growled, twisting to counter with a sweeping kick. Belle narrowly avoided it, dancing out of his reach. Her breath came in quick, sharp bursts, her heart pounding in her chest.

"Not bad," Eli admitted, wiping sweat from his brow, though his expression told her he wasn't done.

But Belle's attention wasn't fully on Eli anymore. Her eyes flicked back to Anthony, who was now pinned against the wall, Kenny still tearing at his flags. Anthony's fists pushed against Kenny's chest, trying to create space, but the younger fighter was relentless.

Belle's gut twisted. She knew she couldn't interfere-not yet. She needed to stay in the game.

With Eli momentarily retreating to regroup, Belle scanned the room. Fighters were scrambling everywhere, flags being ripped away and hoisted triumphantly into the air. Time was running out. She couldn't afford to let her emotions pull her off track.

She refocused, steeling herself as Eli came at her again. They exchanged blows in a furious blur of strikes and counters. Belle ducked low, using her smaller frame to her advantage, and slipped past Eli's defenses to snatch another flag from his belt.

The sharp blast of Sensei Barnes's whistle cut through the chaos, signaling the end of the round. Fighters froze, catching their breath as Barnes stepped forward, clipboard in hand.

"Let's see those flags!" Barnes barked, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Belle wiped sweat from her forehead and stepped forward, her belt jingling with the weight of her haul. She untied her flags, laying them out on the mat with a mix of pride and relief.

Barnes's eyes flicked over her collection, his lips twitching into the faintest hint of approval. "Impressive."

Miguel, standing nearby, raised an eyebrow as he took in Belle's haul. "How did you even manage that?" he asked, his tone somewhere between awe and amusement.

"Just lucky, I guess," Belle teased, though the gleam in her eye told a different story.

Once everyone's flags were tallied, Barnes addressed the group. "Alright, here's the deal. The top five are clear: Belle, Tory, Robby, Sam, and Miguel. Congratulations. You're going to Barcelona."

Belle's heart soared at the announcement. She glanced over at Sam, who grinned back at her. The two exchanged a celebratory fist bump, the weight of their accomplishment settling in.

Barnes continued, his gaze now fixed on the remaining fighters. "As for the rest of you-Eli, Devon, Demetri, and Kenny-you're tied. I'll review my notes and re-tally tonight. I'll announce the final two spots in the morning."

Eli, Devon, Demetri, and Kenny nodded, their faces a mix of determination and nervous anticipation.

As the dojo began to clear out, Belle lingered for a moment, her gaze drifting to Anthony. He looked shaken but unharmed, his frustration evident as he sat on the edge of the mat. She walked over and clapped a hand on his shoulder.

"You held your own out there," she said softly, her tone reassuring.

Anthony looked up at her, his expression softening. "Thanks."

Belle offered him a small smile before turning back to the rest of the group, the weight of the day's events still settling in. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, but for now, she allowed herself to savor the moment. She had made it to Barcelona.

The next morning, Belle and Miguel walked side by side with the other Miyagi-Do students, the crisp air of early dawn clinging to their skin. The forest was alive with the quiet hum of nature waking up: birds chirped from the canopy above, and the soft rustle of leaves whispered through the cool breeze. The sunlight peeked through the trees, painting dappled patterns on the path ahead as they approached the creek.

Belle glanced over at Miguel, catching the faint determination etched across his face. She couldn't help but feel a mix of nerves and anticipation. This wasn't just another drill-it was a chance to prove themselves once again.

The group gathered near the creek, the clear water bubbling over rocks as Sensei Barnes stood atop a weathered picnic table. His imposing stance and sharp gaze commanded the attention of everyone present. His voice cut through the serene morning like a whip.

"Good morning. At least for now," Barnes said, his tone gruff but charged with purpose. He motioned for everyone to come closer. "Gather 'round."

Belle and Miguel exchanged a look, silently reading each other's curiosity and wariness, before stepping forward with the rest. The group formed a loose semi-circle around Barnes, their breath visible in the cool morning air.

Barnes's eyes swept over the students, sharp and calculating. "Is everyone here?" he asked, his voice a low rumble that carried authority.

Daniel LaRusso stepped forward, nodding once. "Yeah, this is everyone," he confirmed.

Barnes clasped his hands behind his back, pausing for effect before clearing his throat. The slight sound was enough to hush the murmurs of conversation among the students.

"Last night," Barnes began, his voice deliberate, "I reviewed my notes. I went over every detail to make sure the remaining five got a fair shake." He let his words hang in the air for a moment, his intense gaze flicking from one student to another.

Belle felt her heart tighten. Was this the moment they'd find out who made the cut?

"But," Barnes continued, his tone shifting to something sharper, "I've decided it's too close to call."

A ripple of confusion spread through the group. Eli furrowed his brow, his arms crossing over his chest. "Wait, that's it?" he asked, the disbelief in his voice mirrored by several others.

Demetri raised a tentative hand, earning a sharp look from Barnes. "Uh, what happens if two of us, hypothetically, find a flag at the same time?" he asked, his nervousness clear.

"You fight for it," Barnes replied curtly, his tone making it clear there was no room for negotiation.

Daniel's concern was written all over his face as he stepped closer. "Are there refs out there?" he asked, his voice edged with caution.

Barnes shook his head, his jaw tightening. "No. They're on their own," he said, his matter-of-fact tone unsettling.

Daniel opened his mouth to protest, but Johnny interrupted. "It can't get any more objective than this, LaRusso. Even Barnes isn't judging this one," he said with a satisfied nod, clearly in agreement with the no-holds-barred approach.

Barnes smirked slightly, glancing at Johnny before addressing the group again. "Winning is everything, plain and simple. No refs. No excuses. Two flags are waiting deep in the forest. Whoever brings them back... wins."

The students exchanged uneasy glances, the weight of the challenge sinking in. Belle felt a shiver run down her spine, not from the cold, but from the realization of what was ahead. This wasn't going to be a test of just skill or strategy-it was survival.

Barnes clapped his hands sharply, breaking the tension. "You've got ten minutes. Stretch. Use the restroom. Call your mothers. Do whatever you need to do to get your head in the game. When you get back, it's go time."

The group dispersed, some muttering nervously while others moved with quiet focus. Belle stayed rooted for a moment, staring at the dense forest in the distance. Her mind raced, planning her strategy, but one thought lingered above the rest: she couldn't afford to fail.

The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows across the clearing as the remaining competitors gathered for the final challenge. The air was thick with anticipation. This wasn't just any challenge-it would determine who would join Belle, Sam, Tory, Miguel, and Robby in Barcelona for the prestigious Sekai Taikai tournament. The stakes couldn't be higher.

Belle stood beside Miguel, her eyes scanning the faces of the others as they assembled. Devon, Kenny, Demetri, and Eli lined up at the starting point, their expressions a mixture of nervous excitement. The clearing was alive with murmurs and whispers as the students and their friends took their positions, the onlookers ready to cheer them on.

The rustling of leaves and the quiet chirp of birds in the trees seemed to fade into silence as Barnes stepped forward, his imposing presence commanding immediate attention. The group fell into a hush as he raised his hand.

"Go!" Barnes shouted, his voice cutting through the air like a whip. His hand dropped, signaling the start of the race.

Without missing a beat, the four competitors dashed into the woods, their movements swift and determined. The sound of their footsteps pounding against the ground echoed in the clearing as they disappeared into the trees. Belle could feel the intensity building in the air, the competitive energy thick around them.

Sitting cross-legged on the grass, Belle glanced back at Robby and Miguel, both of whom were watching the race unfold with sharp eyes. The tension in the air was palpable, and Belle couldn't help but feel the buzz of anticipation as she exchanged a look with Miguel.

"My bet's on Eli," she declared, her voice full of confidence as she kept her gaze fixed on the trees. A smirk tugged at her lips. "He's been doing this longer than Kenny, Demetri, and Devon."

Robby shot her a quick, offended glance, the muscles in his arms tightening as he folded them across his chest. His loyalty to Kenny, his protégé, was clear in his posture and expression.

"Not even Kenny?" Robby retorted, his voice playful but laced with a touch of seriousness.

Belle raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a playful grin. "Kenny's tough, no doubt, but Eli's stronger and more experienced. It's not even close."

Miguel, sensing the brewing tension between the two, jumped in before things could escalate. "Honestly, I don't care who wins," he said with a shrug, his easygoing nature acting as a buffer to the rising competitiveness. "Whoever makes it, makes it."

Belle and Robby both softened, their competitive streaks cooling for the moment. They exchanged a quick glance, and as if on cue, both of them chorused, "Yeah, true."

But just as they settled back, their attention was abruptly yanked back to the race by the pounding of footsteps. Belle's eyes widened as Kenny broke through the trees, sprinting toward them with incredible speed. The sight of him hurtling toward the finish line made her gasp.

"Holy shit. Hey, Kenny won!" Robby exclaimed, jumping to his feet in surprise.

Belle could barely suppress the smile tugging at her lips, though there was a small part of her that felt a little disappointed. "I guess I was wrong," she muttered, shaking her head with a playful sigh as she stood. The crowd around them began to cheer and clap, but before anyone could properly celebrate, Kenny veered off course, shoving Anthony aside with little more than a grunt as he made a beeline for the portable toilet.

He banged his hand against the door, desperation in his voice. "Open up, please. Please, I gotta... I gotta go. Please!" Kenny pleaded, his face a mask of panic as he shifted from foot to foot.

"Oh my God, he's gonna shit his pants," Belle muttered, her concern shifting from victory to embarrassment.

There was a moment of silence, before a loud fart echoed from the portable toilet. Kenny froze in place, his face going ashen as the realization hit everyone at once.

Belle's jaw dropped in disbelief. "Oh my God..." she gasped, her voice barely above a whisper.

Nearby, Anthony was laughing so hard he could barely stand. He clutched his stomach, tears streaming down his face as his laughter echoed across the clearing. "Poor Kenny," Belle murmured under her breath, a mix of secondhand embarrassment and genuine sympathy flooding her chest.

Robby let out an exasperated sigh, shaking his head. "Man, that's rough," he said with a sympathetic chuckle.

"Somebody just got their brown belt," Johnny called out from behind them, his dry humor cutting through the awkwardness like a knife.

Belle struggled to keep a straight face, but she couldn't help the giggles that bubbled up. The whole situation was too ridiculous, and despite the awkwardness, it was hard not to laugh.

Finally, Bert emerged from the portable potty, his face scrunched in confusion as he sniffed the air. "What's that smell?" he asked innocently, completely unaware of the chaos that had just unfolded.

Kenny, face flushed with embarrassment, shoved Bert aside without a word and rushed back into the bathroom, slamming the door behind him with a finality that left no room for questions.

As the awkwardness of the moment began to settle, Devon suddenly burst out of the woods, a triumphant smile on her face as she held up her flag high in the air.

"Hey, guys! It's Devon! She won!" Sam shouted excitedly from the sidelines, her voice carrying over the cheers of the group.

The clearing erupted in applause as Devon grinned, running toward them with energy and excitement radiating from her every step. Robby clapped for her, but Belle noticed his subdued expression. He had really been hoping for Kenny to win, and that disappointment was written all over his face.

Moments later, Demetri emerged from the woods, his steps slower and heavier. His head hung low as he trudged toward the group, his shoulders slumped with exhaustion. "Demetri," Daniel called out, his voice full of concern.

Belle leaned forward, her heart racing with excitement. "Did Eli win too?" she asked eagerly, her eyes wide as she anticipated the answer.

Demetri stopped in front of them and, with a sigh, held up his flag. The clearing went silent for a moment as everyone processed the sight.

Belle's mouth dropped open in shock. "Oh my God! Demetri!" she squealed, her voice rising with joy as she jumped to her feet. Without a second thought, she rushed forward and threw her arms around him in an enthusiastic hug. "You're going to Barcelona with us!"

Demetri chuckled awkwardly, clearly unsure how to react to the sudden attention. "Yeah, guess I am," he said, his voice still processing the reality of the win.

As the group began to gather around, Sensei Barnes stepped forward, his voice carrying across the clearing. "I give you Miyagi-Do's team for the Sekai Taikai. Miguel," he began, and Miguel stepped forward to stand beside Demetri. "Sam. Belle. Robby. Tory. And now, Devon and Demetri."

The team members moved to form a line, standing side by side with pride. Barnes and Daniel exchanged a solemn bow, a gesture that marked the moment as official. Barnes then extended his hand to Johnny, who shook it firmly in acknowledgment of the new team.

Belle's heart swelled with pride as she stood in line with her teammates. But as she looked down the line of fighters, she noticed Eli standing off to the side, his expression clouded with disappointment. Concern tugged at her chest, and she quietly excused herself from the group to check on him.

"Hey," she said softly, touching his arm gently to grab his attention.

Eli looked up, his face shadowed with guilt and frustration. "I was rooting for you," she said quietly, her voice sincere. "What happened?"

Eli avoided her gaze, his eyes focusing on the ground. "Demetri deserves it," he muttered, his voice heavy with guilt. "I... I've been a terrible friend. I finally told him I didn't apply to MIT, and he got mad. It's a lot, Bells."

Belle blinked in surprise. "Wait, you didn't apply?!" she asked, her voice rising with disbelief.

Eli's gaze snapped up, startled by her reaction. "I thought Demetri would have told you," he said, his brow furrowing in confusion.

"No," Belle replied, shaking her head. "He didn't say a word when he ran out here with the flag."

Eli sighed deeply, his shoulders slumping under the weight of the confession. "I just didn't feel ready for it, you know? And now, I don't know what to do. I feel like I've let him down."

Belle reached out, her hand gently squeezing his arm. "Hey, you can still fix this. Demetri's your best friend-he'll understand if you talk to him. And you didn't let him down. You were honest, and that's what matters."

Eli looked at her, a flicker of hope beginning to shine through the clouded expression on his face. "You really think so?"

Belle smiled gently, her eyes filled with reassurance. "I know so. And hey, Barcelona will be amazing, whether you're competing or not. We'll all be there together."

Eli managed a small, grateful smile in return. "Thanks, Bells."

"Anytime," she replied softly.

ASH SPEAKS!!

ONE MORE CHAPTER UNTIL AXELS INTRODUCEDDD!!!!

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