Inextricable//A Cobra Kai Story

Chapter 19

AJ didn't realize that she had her eyes closed until the announcer of the tournament began his long speech. She was too focused on trying to keep her nerves at a low level. This was the first tournament that she would be attending since Colorado and if she was being honest she was pretty nervous.

It didn't matter what had happened yesterday or what she was planning to do if everything fell into place, all that mattered was not making a fool out of herself her first tournament back.

She took a long deep breath as the first dojo was announced. AJ could feel Miguels gaze on her but she chose to ignore it for the time being and focused solely on herself. She needed to be the best one out there. AJ had no choice to but to be.

"Ladies and gentlemen, you've been waiting a long time but we're finally here. Dojos from all across the Valley have been training for a year for their shot at glory. You ready to meet them?" The announcer grinned at the large cheering crowd.

The sound of the applause brought back memories of AJ's previous tournaments. Memories of how it felt to win all of the titles. How she felt back then that she deserved to win. That she truly was the best around.

"This sensei and dojo need no introduction..." The man on the microphone began and AJ watched as the members of Miyagi-Do all straightened up into position, "He took the All Valley by storm in 1984 and '85. And quickly became one of the greatest underdogs in the history of the sport."

AJ glanced up at her own sensei who looked annoyed with the introduction that Daniel was getting. She had a feeling that if they didn't get an introduction like that, they would be hearing Johnny complain for a long time.

"Last year, this dojo came out of nowhere and made it to the finals." The speech continued on, "They've got some new fighters, and they're ready to show the world that they're the best around."

"Oh come on." AJ heard Johnny scoff which made her duck her head to hide the smile on her face.

"Give it up for Miyagi-Do Karate! Led by two-time All-Valley champion Daniel LaRusso!" The dojo dressed in all white began to march out to the mats lead by the former champion. They all had looks of intense determination on their faces.

Everyone of them knew what was riding on the tournament. The literal soul of the valley.

"This next dojo took last years title." The next speech was soon beginning and AJ and Miguel both glared as the next dojo slowly made their way to the entrance, "But they're under new management. Can they reign supreme once more? And last year's runner up he may be wearing a new gi, but one thing's for sure, Robby Keene and his team are ready to strike!"

"Clever." AJ muttered to Miguel with an exaggerated eye roll.

The boy glanced over her and laughed softly trying to enjoy the few moments of peace before the tournament began. However, he noticed that she was still looking a little bit on edge. Miguel figured that it was probably because of the conversation that the two had just had.

"Hailing from Reseda, defending champions and still the most badass name for a dojo, here comes Cobra Kai!" The snake like dojo made their entrance looking as cocky and confident as ever. They all had smug smirks on their faces like they had already won the entire tournament.

"And finally this dojo is making their All Valley debut, though you'll recognize a few familiar faces and a notable name." At the second line AJ raised her head in confusion and turned towards Johnny who flashed her a small smile, "Every year, a new dojo rises up the ranks. Does this newcomer have what it takes to win it all? Please welcome Eagle Fang Karate, lead by sensei Johnny Lawerence, three time Colorado state champion AJ Mills, and defending champion Miguel Diaz!"