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AUTHORS NOTE: SORRY FOR THE NOTIFICATIONS WATTPAD IS STILL GLITCHING

Belle blinked, her mind spinning as the sight before her sunk in. Among the sea of competitors lining up in the arena stood Tory, unmistakably clad in the red and black colors of Cobra Kai. The emblem on the back of her jacket gleamed under the bright lights, standing out like a beacon of defiance. It was one thing to know Tory would be here-it was no secret she remained loyal to Cobra Kai, no matter how many conversations or arguments Belle and Robby had with her-but seeing her like this, on the opposite side of the line, hit differently.

It felt like the air had been sucked out of the arena. Belle's stomach churned, and her heart sank. Every memory of the moments they'd spent trying to sway Tory, trying to make her see that Cobra Kai wasn't the right path, rushed back. She had fought so hard to believe there was something better in Tory, that she could find a way out. But now, as she stood there, confidently representing Cobra Kai, it felt like all those moments had been for nothing.

Gunther's booming voice echoed through the arena, announcing something Belle couldn't quite register. The words faded into the background as her eyes locked on Tory's. There was something different in her expression, though-her usual sharp, unwavering confidence was still there, but beneath it was something softer. Guilt? Regret?

Tory's lips moved, silently forming the words, "I'm sorry."

The phrase was barely visible, but Belle caught it. The apology hit her like a dagger to the chest, sharp and unforgiving.

Belle furrowed her brows, anger sparking to life inside her. Sorry? What did that even mean? Sorry for standing there, shoulder to shoulder with Cobra Kai? Sorry for the weeks of silence, for ignoring every attempt to reach out? Sorry for betraying their friendship, their trust? The word was meaningless-hollow.

Her chest tightened as her emotions collided inside her like an uncontrollable storm. Anger swirled with confusion, and confusion tangled with something deeper. Was it hurt? Disappointment? She wasn't ready to untangle it all, not yet.

The arena seemed to close in around her. The crowd's energy felt distant, like she was underwater. She clenched her fists to steady herself, but her breathing hitched.

A warm, familiar touch broke through the chaos. Miguel's hand slipped into hers, his fingers intertwining with hers in a steady grip. His touch was grounding, pulling her back to reality. She turned her head slightly, meeting his gaze. Concern was etched in his brown eyes, his silent support radiating through the connection. He didn't speak, didn't need to. His steady presence was enough.

Belle squeezed his hand briefly, drawing strength from him before slowly releasing it. She couldn't let herself spiral, not here, not now.

"The Sekai Taikai boasts a rich and proud history," Gunther's voice boomed, commanding the room's attention. Belle forced herself to focus on his words, though they felt distant. "And if you are here, it's because you embody all that the Sekai Taikai stands for: leadership, respect, sportsmanship. Captains, step forward and tie on your headbands."

The arena stirred as competitors began to move. Belle inhaled deeply, her breath trembling as she exhaled. She stepped forward with Robby, her partner as captain of Miyagi-Do, their movements synchronized. Each step felt heavy, weighted with the gravity of what this tournament meant-not just for the dojo, but for herself.

Across the mat, Tory stepped forward as well, paired with a stern-looking boy from Cobra Kai. Her movements were steady, confident, but Belle couldn't shake the feeling that something about her seemed off. As Tory reached for her Cobra Kai headband, she hesitated for the briefest moment. Their eyes met, and Belle swore she saw it again-that flicker of doubt.

Her hands trembled slightly as she tied her Miyagi-Do headband around her forehead, securing it with deliberate care. The fabric pressed against her skin, a physical reminder of the responsibility she carried. She glanced at Robby beside her-his expression was calm, determined. He was locked in, ready for whatever came next.

Belle's focus shifted back to Tory. The other girl finished tying her headband, her motions slower, almost reluctant. Belle wanted to look away, to ignore the feelings bubbling up inside her, but she couldn't. For a moment, Tory looked like she might say something, like she might explain herself. But the moment passed, and she turned away.

"Captains," Gunther called out, his voice sharp and commanding, "you will have the honor and privilege to compete in our televised tournament of champions. But that is only if your dojo does well enough in our team competitions to make it to the final four. Once the tournament is over, we will tally all the points your dojos have earned. The dojo with the most points wins the Sekai Taikai. Team events begin tomorrow."

Belle leaned closer to Robby, her voice low and urgent. "Did you know Tory was going to do this?"

Robby shook his head immediately, his voice firm. "No. I swear I didn't."

Gunther's voice continued to echo through the arena, but Belle barely registered the words. Her thoughts were still racing, caught between her frustration, her confusion, and the weight of Tory's silent apology.

"But today is about enjoying our host city and making new friends. Or enemies," Gunther added, his tone dropping ominously on the last word.

A chill ran down Belle's spine. Her instincts told her that this tournament wasn't just about karate. It was about loyalty. About trust. And about navigating the murky waters of alliances and betrayals.

"We have a field trip arranged for our competitors," Gunther continued, his tone shifting to something lighter. "And for our senseis, a cocktail mixer with our distinguished sponsors, some of the world's finest martial arts brands. It's a beautiful day to make a first impression. And I suggest you enjoy it, because tomorrow, your lives change forever. Good luck, and welcome to the Sekai Taikai!"

The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, but Belle barely noticed. Her mind was too clouded, her emotions too raw. She scanned the arena, taking in the faces around her-friends, rivals, strangers. Her gaze inevitably landed back on Tory.

Tory's eyes darted toward her one last time. This time, the hesitation in her expression was unmistakable. She looked like she wanted to say something, but whatever it was remained unsaid. She turned away quickly, her shoulders tense, avoiding Belle's gaze.

Robby's hand touched her arm, grounding her once more. "You okay?" he asked softly, his concern evident.

Belle nodded, though the words felt hollow. "Yeah," she muttered. "I just... I need a minute."

She inhaled deeply, willing herself to stay strong. Tomorrow, everything would change. For now, she just had to hold it together. For herself, for Miyagi-Do, and for whatever lay ahead.

Devon leaned casually against the hotel lobby's sleek marble column, her arms crossed and her head tilted as she watched the chaos unfold. The boys were locked in yet another heated argument, their voices ricocheting off the grand chandelier hanging above them. Eli and Demetri were in the thick of it, their faces flushed as they jabbed fingers and traded accusations about bunking arrangements. Devon's eyes glimmered with amusement, a small grin tugging at her lips. She shook her head slightly, glancing at Belle and Sam before muttering, "Thank God we aren't boys." Her voice was light, but there was a distinct relief in her tone.

Sam smirked but didn't reply, her attention flickering to Belle, who sat perched on the edge of one of the plush lobby chairs. Belle hadn't moved since they arrived. Her shoulders slumped, her chin tucked into her chest as she stared unblinkingly at the intricate swirls of the carpet beneath her feet. She looked utterly lost, a sharp contrast to the chaos swirling around her.

Belle's fingers fidgeted with the hem of her Miyagi-Do jacket, her knuckles white with tension. "How could Tory go back to Cobra Kai?" she muttered, her voice barely audible over the background noise. The disbelief in her tone was palpable, each word tinged with hurt. "I thought things had changed... I thought she had changed..." Her voice faltered, and the unspoken weight of her disappointment hung heavily in the air.

Sam stepped closer, resting a comforting hand on Belle's shoulder. Her touch was gentle but grounding. "Belle, I know this feels like a betrayal," Sam said softly, kneeling slightly to meet Belle's downcast gaze. "But Tory's choices don't define you. You did everything you could to reach her. That matters."

Before Belle could respond, a sharp clatter of footsteps broke through the tension, drawing everyone's attention toward the entrance of the lobby. A group of Cobra Kai boys sauntered in, their matching black jackets and cocky swagger turning heads. At the front of the group was Kwon, his usual smirk plastered across his face as he scanned the Miyagi-Do group like a predator sizing up its prey.

"So," Kwon began, his voice loud and dripping with mockery, "this is the famous Miyagi-Do? I don't get it. What's the big deal? You don't look like much." His words were casual, but the disdain in his tone was razor-sharp, designed to provoke.

Belle's stomach clenched, her mind snapping back to the present. The heat of Kwon's sneer sent her pulse racing, but before she could react, Eli stepped forward, his jaw set and his fists clenched. The fire in his eyes was unmistakable. "Yeah?" Eli shot back, his voice low and cutting. "You'll see better when you're flat on your back on the mat."

Eli took a menacing step toward Kwon, his entire body tense, ready for a fight. But before he could close the distance, Belle shot up from her seat and placed a firm hand on his arm. "Eli," she said, her voice steady but filled with quiet authority. "Not worth it." Her gaze locked onto his, her expression softening slightly as she added, "Save it for the tournament."

Eli hesitated, his nostrils flaring as he glared at Kwon, but eventually, he took a step back. "Fine," he muttered, though his fists remained clenched at his sides.

Miguel moved to Belle's side, his tone calm yet commanding. "Forget about them," he said, addressing the group as a whole. "They're just another dojo here. Don't let them get under your skin."

Kwon chuckled, clearly amused by Miguel's attempt to de-escalate. "We'll see how confident you are when the matches start," he sneered before turning and sauntering off with his crew, their laughter echoing behind them.

As the tension began to dissipate, the sound of soft footsteps caught Belle's attention. She turned her head just in time to see Tory walking past, her Cobra Kai jacket standing out starkly against the warm tones of the hotel lobby. Tory's expression was unreadable, her gaze flickering briefly toward the Miyagi-Do group.

Robby's head snapped toward her, his eyes widening in recognition. "Tory," he whispered under his breath, the name barely audible.

Before anyone could stop him, Robby was already moving, his stride quick and determined as he followed after her.

Belle sighed deeply, pressing a hand to her temple as she watched Robby disappear into the crowd. "This just keeps getting better," she muttered under her breath, the weight of the day settling heavily on her shoulders.

After settling into their rooms, the competitors were immediately shuffled together for what the organizers called a "mandatory bonding experience." The destination? The city's famous aquarium, renowned for its vast, otherworldly exhibits. While some groaned at the idea, Belle didn't mind. She loved aquariums. There was something deeply tranquil about them-the dim, bluish glow of the tanks, the rhythmic movement of sea creatures, and the way time seemed to stand still within their watery realms. It felt like being transported to a whole different universe, one where she could lose herself completely.

The aquarium's entrance was nothing short of mesmerizing. A massive cylindrical tank stretched from floor to ceiling, filled with darting schools of fish shimmering in hues of silver and gold. Their synchronized movements created a hypnotic dance, and Belle found herself pausing to admire them. Just a few feet away, a pair of seahorses swayed gently, their tails coiled around a strand of seaweed. A faint smile tugged at her lips as she watched.

But her moment of serenity was cut short when a staff member, wearing a wide, overly enthusiastic grin, clapped their hands to get everyone's attention. "Alright, team captains! Over here, please. We're going to take a group photo in front of our grand centerpiece!"

Belle's stomach sank. She loved the soothing ambiance of aquariums, but she wasn't a fan of being in the spotlight-especially not with her competition. Still, she followed the others toward the centerpiece: a towering wall of glass that housed graceful manta rays, sleek sharks, and a rainbow of vibrant fish. The tank glowed softly, casting rippling light patterns on the surrounding walls, creating a backdrop so picturesque it almost made up for the discomfort of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with rivals.

"Alright, captains! Let's get nice and close," the photographer called, his tone exuding the kind of false cheer that only made the situation more irritating. He gestured dramatically for the group to huddle together, as though that would somehow erase the palpable tension hanging in the air.

Belle reluctantly stepped closer to Robby, crossing her arms tightly over her chest. Her eyes scanned the other captains. Tory stood a few feet away, her posture rigid, arms crossed, and her expression utterly unreadable. Belle couldn't help but wonder what was going through her head.

The photographer adjusted his camera and beamed. "Okay, everyone say, 'Barcelona!' One, two, three!"

"Barcelona," the group mumbled in near unison. Some of the captains mustered wide, genuine smiles, while others-Belle included-barely moved their lips. Her attempt at a smile was fleeting at best, her thoughts already drifting elsewhere.

The photographer frowned as he glanced at the screen. "Alright, let's do another, but this time-sexy! And louder!" he chirped, raising the camera once more.

Belle froze, her head snapping toward him. Did he seriously just say that? Around her, a few captains complied with exaggerated voices and smirks, though she caught the eye rolls of others who clearly shared her irritation.

"I'd rather jump into the tank behind me," she muttered under her breath, keeping her arms crossed as she shifted her weight uncomfortably.

Beside her, Robby didn't respond. Curious, Belle glanced up and followed his line of sight. He wasn't looking at the camera, the photographer, or even the glowing tank. No, his eyes were locked on Tory, who stood off to the side, seemingly oblivious to his attention.

Of course.

Belle sighed audibly and gave Robby a light smack on the arm. "Stop that," she hissed, narrowing her eyes at him.

Robby blinked, snapping out of his trance. "What?" he asked, his brows knitting together in confusion.

"You know what," Belle replied, shaking her head.

Before Robby could defend himself, the photographer raised his voice again. "Alright, one more shot! Big smiles!"

But before the next photo could be taken, Tory turned abruptly and walked away without a word. Her departure left the lineup lopsided, and the photographer let out an audible sigh of frustration.

"Alright, forget it. We're done," he muttered, letting the camera hang from the strap around his neck.

As the captains began to disperse, Belle noticed Robby hesitate, his gaze flickering to Tory's retreating figure. Without a word, he took off after her, his strides purposeful and his jaw set with determination.

Belle watched him go, a tightness building in her chest. She inhaled deeply, letting out a sharp exhale as she turned back toward her team. She hadn't taken more than a few steps when she felt the distinct sensation of someone watching her.

She glanced over her shoulder and caught sight of a boy standing awkwardly near one of the exhibits, his eyes fixed intently on her. The moment their gazes met, his expression shifted-his eyes widened, and he quickly shuffled away, as though caught doing something he shouldn't have.

Belle raised an eyebrow, puzzled, but before she could think too much about it, she felt a warm kiss press against her forehead. Startled, she looked up to see Miguel smiling down at her, his expression calm and reassuring.

"Come on," he said softly, wrapping an arm around her shoulders and gently guiding her toward the rest of the group.

Belle let herself relax under his touch, but as they walked, she cast one last glance over her shoulder. The boy was still there, standing awkwardly in the shadows. His gaze lingered on her for a moment longer before he disappeared into the crowd.

The group made their way down the polished floors of the aquarium, their footsteps softly reverberating against the sleek, glassy surface. The dim lighting and the ethereal glow of the tanks bathed everything in a serene, aquatic blue. Belle walked beside Miguel, her eyes darting from one glowing exhibit to another, enchanted by the vibrant colors and the graceful, almost hypnotic movements of the sea life.

She slowed down at nearly every tank, captivated by schools of glittering fish darting in synchronized patterns and jellyfish that floated like otherworldly spirits. Every time she lingered, Miguel would stop as well, smiling softly as he watched her. Her fascination was contagious, and he couldn't help but sneak glances at her as much as the tanks.

Ahead, the rest of the group was moving steadily, their conversation a low hum against the backdrop of bubbling water. But just as Belle turned to rejoin them, a strange sound caught her attention.

It started faint, almost like a distant drumbeat. A rhythmic chant that grew louder with each step they took.

"Vlad! Vlad! Vlad!"

Belle frowned, her gaze flickering toward Miguel, who had also stopped in his tracks. His brow furrowed, his expression mirroring her confusion.

"What is that?" she whispered, her voice low, as though the chant might answer her directly.

"I don't know," Miguel replied, his tone equally puzzled.

The chanting grew louder, reverberating through the hall like an ominous pulse. The group rounded a corner, and the source of the noise came into view.

A large crowd was gathered in front of one of the largest tanks, their faces illuminated by the eerie blue light of the water. The energy in the air was electric, the chant "Vlad! Vlad!" booming now, almost deafening.

At the center of the commotion stood a boy who could only be Vlad, his sharp features accentuated by the confident smirk plastered on his face. His stance was casual, but there was a deliberate swagger to his movements as he stepped back from a small wall where two chalk lines had been drawn.

The taller of the two lines seemed impossibly high, marking what was clearly an impressive feat of athleticism. Belle's eyes widened slightly, her curiosity piqued despite the unease that began to creep over her.

Before anyone could process the scene further, a slow, deliberate clap rang out from the crowd. The sound cut through the chanting like a blade, drawing every eye toward the source.

A boy emerged from the crowd, his expression a blend of smugness and theatrical disappointment. Belle instantly recognized him from the hotel.

"Kwon," she murmured under her breath.

Kwon strutted forward, his every movement exaggerated as he shook his head with mock disapproval. He stopped in front of the chalk lines, gesturing at them dismissively.

"Not even close," he said, his voice carrying easily over the now-silent crowd. "No one beats mine."

The statement hung in the air like a challenge, his smirk widening as he turned to face the assembled teams. His gaze swept over them before landing squarely on the Miyagi-Do group.

"Ah, Team USA," he drawled, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Everyone knows America's the best at everything, right?"

The room erupted into laughter and murmurs, the competitors exchanging knowing looks.

Belle felt the tension shift around her like a sudden drop in temperature. Her stomach twisted as she glanced at Miguel, who stood rigid beside her, his jaw tightening.

Kwon raised his hands, his smirk never wavering. "So, let's see! Let's see!" he taunted, his voice rising.

The crowd roared their approval, the chant morphing into a mocking "USA! USA!" The sound echoed off the walls, each repetition sharper and more taunting than the last.

Belle's heart sank as the jeers and laughter intensified, the hostility in the room growing palpable.

"Are you scared?" Kwon shouted, his grin predatory as he scanned the Miyagi-Do group.

Eli's jaw clenched, his hands curling into fists at his sides. "That's it," he muttered, stepping forward before anyone could stop him. "Give me the chalk."

Belle reached out, grabbing his arm and pulling him back toward the group. "Eli, are you serious?" she whispered fiercely, her eyes wide with concern.

"You'd rather they call us cowards?" Eli shot back, his voice defensive.

Miguel stepped forward, his tone firm. "This isn't a good idea," he said, his gaze locked on Eli.

"Yeah, I'm with Miguel," Belle added, crossing her arms. "This is stupid."

Eli's eyes darted between them, his frustration evident. "What? You want to just stand here and let them talk crap?"

Before anyone could respond, Devon scoffed loudly. "You know what? This is dumb," she declared, turning on her heel and marching out of the room.

Belle watched her go, a flicker of envy crossing her face. "Wish I could do that," she muttered under her breath.

But the moment was cut short as another Cobra Kai member stepped forward, a sneer curling his lips. He tilted his head, his eyes narrowing as he looked Eli up and down.

"Is this really the best your dojo has to offer?" he asked, his tone dripping with mockery.

Eli's temper flared. "I'm tough enough to kick your ass," he snapped, stepping closer until they were nearly nose to nose.

Kwon laughed, the sound grating as he rolled his eyes dramatically. "Please," he scoffed. "You're not even the captain!"

The crowd erupted into laughter again, the sound cutting through Belle like nails on a chalkboard.

But then, a calm, steady voice broke through the noise.

"I'm right here."

The laughter died instantly as Robby stepped forward, his expression unreadable but his presence commanding.

Kwon's smirk faltered for a fraction of a second before he recovered. "You always walk away from a challenge?" he called after Robby, his tone laced with condescension.

Belle placed a hand on Robby's arm, her voice low but firm. "Don't let him get to you," she pleaded.

But before Robby could respond, Eli pressed a piece of chalk into his hand, his voice low and steady. "You've got this."

Belle's stomach twisted as she exchanged a look with Miguel, both of them realizing there was no stopping this now.

The room grew silent as Robby stepped forward, his focus razor-sharp. The tension was suffocating, every eye locked on him as he measured his distance from the wall.

With a burst of energy, he sprinted toward the wall, leaping into the air and delivering a powerful kick. When he landed, the chalk mark was three inches higher than Kwon's.

The Miyagi-Do team erupted into cheers, their voices filling the room. Belle clapped her hands to her mouth, her eyes wide with excitement.

But the celebration was short-lived.

Kwon stepped forward, rolling his shoulders and smirking as he prepared for his turn. The room fell silent again, the tension almost unbearable.

With a powerful leap, Kwon kicked the wall, his chalk mark landing just a hair above Robby's.

The Cobra Kai team roared with laughter and cheers as Kwon strutted back, his smirk wider than ever. "Keys," he demanded smugly, holding out his hand.

Robby sighed, pulling out his room keycard and slapping it into Kwon's waiting palm. The Cobra Kai team jeered louder, their victory cemented as Kwon held the keys up triumphantly.

Belle groaned audibly, pinching the bridge of her nose. "This is why I hate bets," she muttered.

Belle sat cross-legged on the corner of the bed, her arms tightly wrapped around one of the spare pillows like it was the only anchor in the storm brewing around her. The room felt stifling, its atmosphere thick with frustration, blame, and unspoken resentment. Tension buzzed like static electricity, ready to spark at the slightest provocation. Everyone was pissed at Robby, and they weren't shy about showing it.

The poorly thought-out gamble at the aquarium had backfired spectacularly, resulting in an uncomfortable new living arrangement. Now, thanks to Robby's loss, he and Demetri were crammed into a room with Eli and Miguel. Four boys. Two beds. Zero personal space.

To no one's surprise, this setup was already a disaster.

But at least Miguel had taken Belle's earlier offer to sneak over and crash in her bed. He'd texted her a quick "thanks" with an apologetic smiley face, and she hadn't minded. Not when the alternative was enduring the volatile energy bubbling between the boys.

The door creaked open, and Demetri trudged inside like a man walking to his doom. His shoulders slumped under the weight of his duffel bag, and he looked every bit like someone who'd just had the worst day of his life.

"Well, this sucks," he muttered, throwing his bag onto one of the beds with an exaggerated huff.

Sam followed close behind, her expression sharp and her arms crossed over her chest. "Not a very smart gamble, boys," she said, her voice laced with judgment as she glared pointedly at Robby.

Demetri shot Robby a look too, wasting no time piling on. "Yeah, somebody said it wasn't gonna be a gamble," he snarked, his tone cutting.

Robby, who had been leaning against the dresser with his arms folded, straightened and clenched his jaw. "I didn't want to get involved," he snapped, defensive.

Sam arched an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "I told you guys to stay away from Cobra Kai. It's that simple," she retorted, her voice biting.

Robby's eyes narrowed, and he folded his arms tighter. "If it's so simple, shouldn't you be following your advice?"

Before Sam could respond, Eli, lounging in the corner with his usual air of superiority, decided to chime in. "Oh, we all saw Robby talking to Tory earlier," he said with a smug grin, as though he were dropping the bombshell everyone had been waiting for.

Robby looked caught off guard, his confusion apparent. "What are you talking about?"

Eli leaned back, crossing his arms, his tone casual but laced with mockery. "Come on. Tory's your girlfriend. Everyone knows that," he said, clearly enjoying the stir he was causing.

Belle rolled her eyes so hard it almost hurt. She let out a sharp scoff and shifted her weight on the bed, speaking up for the first time. "Oh, please. This is ridiculous," she snapped, her voice tinged with irritation. "Robby has every right to be upset about what happened with Tory. She's his girlfriend. Why wouldn't he talk to her?"

Miguel, ever the peacemaker, stepped in quickly. "Yeah, but we're all dealing with what she decided," he said, glancing at Robby with a neutral expression. "It's not just on Robby."

Before anyone could respond, Sam delivered a sharp revelation that sent a chill through the room. "I wouldn't say that exactly. Robby knew Kreese went to Tory."

The words hit like a lightning strike, and the room froze. Belle's eyes widened, her brows knitting together in disbelief as she turned to Sam. "What?" she whispered, her voice barely audible but filled with shock.

All eyes snapped to Robby, who looked like a cornered animal. His gaze flickered nervously around the room as he ran a hand through his hair. "Yeah, okay, I knew Kreese talked to her," he admitted, his words tumbling out in a rush. "But it was before her mom died. He was trying to trash Miyagi-Do, saying she wouldn't have a fair shot, but she told him to get lost! I didn't think it would go anywhere."

Sam's jaw tightened, her voice slicing through the air like a blade. "Kreese played you. And her. That's what he does, Robby."

Robby's defenses faltered. His voice softened, the edge in his tone giving way to frustration. "Come on, guys, that's not fair. I didn't lie," he said, his tone almost pleading now.

An uneasy silence settled over the room, the weight of the moment pressing down on everyone.

Finally, Robby turned to Belle, his voice quieter but filled with desperation. "Belle?"

He looked at her with the kind of expression that begged for understanding, for someone to see his side. Belle, who always saw the best in people, who always found a way to smooth things over.

But this time, she didn't meet his eyes. She stared down at her lap, her grip tightening on the pillow in her arms.

She didn't say a word.

And in that silence, Robby's shoulders slumped just slightly, the room's judgment pressing heavier against him.

The room was quiet except for the faint hum of the air conditioner, cooling the warm air of the late evening. Belle had just finished brushing out her hair, her fingers running through the long strands slowly as she stood by the small vanity, the golden glow of the bedside lamp casting a warm hue across her face. Her hotel room was a mess-bags half-unpacked, clothes scattered on the bed, shoes in every corner. It was one of those moments where the chaos of the day had settled into a kind of stillness, but it was a silence that didn't feel quite right. There was still too much tension in the air from earlier-arguments, blame, awkwardness.

But now, as she caught her reflection in the mirror, she couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief. The day was finally winding down, and she was ready to escape it all, even if only for a moment.

Belle glanced over at the bed, where the thin comforter was messily tossed aside. Her gaze drifted to the door leading to the small balcony. It was cracked open just slightly, letting in the cool night breeze. That was when she heard it-the soft tap against the glass.

She smiled, knowing exactly who it was. Walking over, she pulled the door open and found Miguel standing there, wearing a casual t-shirt and sweatpants, his eyes bright with mischief.

"The senseis are asleep," he said in a whisper, his voice full of that familiar playfulness that always made her heart skip a beat.

Belle raised an eyebrow, though a grin tugged at the corners of her lips. "Are you sure they didn't hear you sneaking around?" she teased, stepping back to let him inside.

Miguel smirked and shook his head. "Not a chance. I'm pretty quiet when I need to be." His gaze softened as he stepped into the room, closing the door behind him with a soft click.

As he crossed the room, his eyes never left hers. He was close now, so close that she could feel the warmth radiating off of him, the comforting presence she had missed more than she was willing to admit.

"Missed you," he murmured, his voice a little lower now, a trace of vulnerability in his words that made Belle's chest tighten.

She met him halfway, and before she knew it, he had his arms around her, pulling her in tightly. The feeling of his body against hers made her heart flutter, and she pressed her head against his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat under her cheek.

"I missed you too," Belle said softly, closing her eyes and letting herself relax into his embrace. For a brief moment, the weight of the world seemed to disappear, and there was nothing but the warmth between them.

Miguel's hands moved to gently cradle her face, lifting her chin so that she was looking up at him. There was something different about the way he was looking at her now-more intense, more focused. She could see the desire in his eyes, the way he seemed to be caught between wanting to hold her and wanting to kiss her. Without a word, he leaned in, and Belle closed the distance, their lips meeting in a soft, slow kiss.

The kiss was tender at first-an exploration of quiet affection-but as they grew closer, the tension that had built up between them all day came rushing to the surface. Miguel's hand slid to her back, pulling her flush against him as the kiss deepened. She responded in kind, her fingers threading through his hair, pulling him even closer as the world outside of them seemed to vanish.

They stayed like that for what felt like forever, lost in each other, until a loud and unmistakable sound cut through the intimacy of the moment-a throat clearing.

Belle and Miguel pulled apart in an instant, their eyes wide, both of them looking toward the doorway where Sam stood, arms crossed, an amused yet judgmental expression on her face.

"Excuse me," Sam said, her voice dripping with sarcastic sweetness. She stood there for a moment, letting the awkwardness of the situation hang in the air. "You're lucky I'm not telling my dad about this little setup," she added with a raised eyebrow, her voice cutting through the tension. "But let me make one thing very clear: no making out. Only cuddling. And definitely no adding to the population, okay?"

Belle's face turned bright red in an instant, and she quickly pressed her hands over her cheeks, completely mortified. "Sam!" she hissed, her voice a mix of embarrassment and frustration.

Miguel, looking equally flustered, rubbed the back of his neck with a nervous laugh. "Uh... yeah, sure. Cuddling. Got it," he said, glancing at Belle with a sheepish smile that only made her flush more.

Sam smirked, clearly enjoying their discomfort. "Good. Just remember, I'm right next door. If I hear anything suspicious, I'll come knock. I swear, one of these days you two are going to get caught."

Belle groaned, sinking back onto the bed in exasperation. "I can't believe that just happened." She covered her face with her hands, letting out a loud sigh of embarrassment.

Miguel chuckled softly, stepping over to the bed and gently pulling her hands away from her face. "Hey, at least she didn't tell her dad," he teased, his voice light, trying to lift her spirits.

Belle gave him a small, defeated smile. "I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing," she muttered.

Miguel leaned down and placed a soft kiss on her forehead. "It's a good thing. Trust me."

Belle sighed again but couldn't help the small smile that tugged at her lips. "Fine, fine," she said, settling against him as he lay down beside her.

As they cuddled up together, the room felt warmer, quieter, and for the first time all day, Belle could feel her nerves finally beginning to settle. She rested her head on his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart as she let herself relax. Even though Sam had interrupted, even though everything still felt a little chaotic in her mind, she felt safe here, in Miguel's arms.

And for that moment, that was enough.

Belle stood stiffly among her team in the center of the Sekai Taikai arena. The air was thick with tension, crackling with energy as the massive crowd roared, their voices melding into a constant hum of excitement and anticipation. The blinding glare of overhead lights seemed to intensify the weight of the moment, their harsh brightness casting long shadows over the polished mats. Belle did her best to stay composed, her arms crossed tightly in front of her chest as her heart hammered in her chest, fighting the churn of anxiety gnawing at her stomach. Despite her best efforts, the unease was inescapable, and her mind kept returning to the awkwardness that had defined her relationship with Robby the past few days.

And there he was-standing just a few feet away, looking every bit as tense and unsettled as she felt. She hated this. She hated that they were forced to share the role of team captain, hated the forced proximity, and, most of all, hated the fact that no matter how hard she tried to ignore him, she could feel his eyes on her, steady and unrelenting. The night before had only made things worse, and it felt like the weight of it was still hanging in the air between them, thick and uncomfortable. The last thing she wanted was to deal with that while simultaneously preparing for the most important match of their lives.

As the crowd's noise rose to a fever pitch, the announcer, Gunther Braun, stepped onto the mat, his voice booming across the arena like a thunderclap. His charismatic presence seemed to fill the space, drawing the attention of everyone in the stadium.

"The time has come!" Gunther's voice rang out, sending a ripple of excitement through the audience. "Welcome to the first event of Sekai Taikai! I hope you're all well-rested and ready for what promises to be a unique and unforgettable competition!"

Belle clenched her jaw, trying to keep her expression neutral, but the tension in the air was palpable. Despite the noise, all she could focus on was the awkwardness between her and Robby, the unsettled feeling in her chest that she couldn't shake.

"We call this the Captain's War," Gunther continued, pausing for dramatic effect as the crowd hushed in anticipation. "We told you how important your captains would be-now, let's see how well you protect them. Four dojos will take the mat, but only one will be left standing. If you hit the mat, you're out. And if one of your captains hits the mat, your entire team is eliminated from this round."

The words hit like a slap in the face. Belle's stomach twisted. Losing one captain meant losing everything. The weight of the responsibility pressed down on her, and she found herself unable to shake the knot of dread that had formed in her gut.

"Check the boards to see your groups," Gunther announced, gesturing toward the giant screens behind him. "Group A, you're up!"

Belle's gaze flicked to the board, and her heart sank as soon as she saw the matchup. Cobra Kai. Of course. Of course they were up against Cobra Kai.

She scoffed under her breath, shaking her head. Sensei LaRusso muttered from behind her, "Cobra Kai. Naturally."

The team huddled close, the air charged with energy but also uncertainty. Belle did her best to avoid standing directly next to Robby, though she could feel the pull of his presence like an invisible force. It was impossible to ignore. And she hated it.

"Let them come to us," Miguel's calm voice cut through the murmur of the group. His words were confident, unwavering, his steady energy grounding the others.

"Protect the egg," Sam added, her sharp eyes scanning the group. "Make sure Belle and Robby are safe."

Belle's jaw clenched at the mention of her name, her hands tightening around her arms as she tried to steady her nerves. She hated the way everyone was treating her like a fragile object to protect.

Robby shifted, his posture rigid, and the tension in his voice was unmistakable. "I can be on the front line."

Miguel's gaze snapped to him, sharp and deliberate. "No. You stay back and stay focused."

Belle could feel Robby's frustration boiling over at Miguel's command. "Why wouldn't I be focused?" Robby snapped, his voice low but edged with anger.

Miguel's eyes softened slightly as he responded, his voice slower, measured. "You left the hotel room last night."

The words hung in the air, a heavy reminder of the conversation they'd avoided, the unspoken tension between them. Belle's breath caught in her throat, and her stomach twisted painfully. Robby's gaze shifted toward her, searching her face for a reaction. Her heart pounded in her chest, and she froze, her eyes refusing to meet his. The weight of his stare felt suffocating, and she could feel the burn of regret and confusion flood through her. She hated this feeling.

Before she could respond, Sensei LaRusso stepped into the center of the huddle, his voice steady, authoritative, a sharp contrast to the unspoken emotions swirling between the group. "I know it hasn't always been pretty lately, but no one could ever count us out. Do it for each other. Fight for each other."

The team nodded, and a sense of quiet determination settled over them, though Belle could still feel the cracks in their unity.

"And wipe the smirks off their ugly faces," Sensei Lawrence added with his usual gruff tone, earning a few chuckles from the group.

Belle couldn't help but laugh softly, the tension in her chest easing ever so slightly. Maybe they could do this after all.

Gunther's voice rang out again, louder this time. "Ready? Begin!"

The match erupted into chaos almost instantly. Tory charged forward, a fierce predator on the hunt, her eyes locked on the target-Belle's team.

"Protect the egg!" Demetri called out, his voice shaking slightly as he moved to block her advance.

But Tory was faster. She swept Demetri's legs out from under him with brutal precision, sending him crashing to the mat.

"Demetri's out!" Miguel called, barely sparing a glance as he engaged in a fight of his own with another Cobra Kai fighter.

Belle's focus sharpened, and before she could even register what was happening, a Cobra Kai boy charged toward her. Her body reacted before her mind could catch up, every instinct screaming at her to defend herself. He came at her with speed and aggression, his strikes quick and powerful, but predictable.

"Stay on him, Belle!" Sam shouted from behind her, her voice urgent.

Belle didn't need to be told twice. She ducked under a high kick, her footwork light and quick as she sidestepped his next move. With practiced ease, she countered with a sharp kick to his chest, knocking him off balance. But before she could capitalize on the opening, another Cobra Kai fighter charged in, forcing her to split her attention.

Behind her, Robby shouted, "Bellee, watch your left!"

Belle's jaw tightened at the sound of his voice, frustration flaring inside her. She didn't want to listen to him. She didn't want to need him. But the attack was already incoming, and her body moved on autopilot, blocking the strike just in time.

"Guys, protect Belle! We can't have her go down!" Sensei LaRusso's voice rang out, sharp with urgency.

Belle barely heard him as she fought, her mind locked in the present, each movement calculated and precise. She had to stay focused. One wrong move and everything would come crashing down.

The match was a blur of bodies, strikes, and quick movements. It was chaos. And through it all, Belle's mind kept returning to the one thought that she couldn't shake: No matter how much she hated this, no matter how much she resented Robby at the moment, they had to win. For Miyagi-Do. For each other.

"Need some help!" Devon's voice pulled her from her thoughts. She glanced over to see him struggling with Tory, her movements becoming even more aggressive as she locked onto her opponent.

Belle made a move toward them, but before she could intervene, another Cobra Kai boy lunged at her, this time his kick missing completely. Belle quirked an eyebrow, a smirk forming on her lips despite the tension.

"You've got to do better than that," she taunted, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Frustrated, the boy lunged again, but Belle was ready. She blocked his punch, twisting his wrist and flipping him onto the mat in one smooth motion. Her foot connected with his chest, sending him sprawling across the floor.

The fight raged on, and just when it seemed like they might have a chance, disaster struck. Eli, caught in the thick of the action, was flipped onto the mat.

"Lee's out!" Gunther's voice announced, and the arena seemed to buzz with energy.

"Robby's out! Miyagi-Do is eliminated for this round!" Gunther's words rang out, and Belle froze in place, her heart dropping into her stomach.

Robby hit the mat hard, the impact echoing across the arena. His face was twisted with frustration as he slapped the mat angrily, a clear sign of defeat. Belle felt the weight of it hit her like a physical blow.

She stared at him for a moment, her chest tight with embarrassment and regret. She should've tried harder to prevent this.

ASH SPEAKS!!!!

i havent made a new gif yet... but next chapter there should be with axel and belle!!!

belle and axel have (kinda) met!!!

if it says clementine anywhere its because i copied and pasted the scene from cinnamon girl LMFAOOAO

PLEASE DONT BE A GHOST READER!!!
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