MARTIAL HEARTS - Eli Moskowitz

𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐄𝐄

1etherealuniverse™

"Cyber bullying is no laughing matter." Counselor Blatt announced in the middle of the cafeteria, holding up a microphone. "sending a cruel message to someone online could be just as hurtful as to saying it to their face."

Athena sighed as she looked to Eli, who was focusing on the announcement, unlike the majority of the people in the room. "I'm not gonna name names, but the other day a mother called me up because her son was crying after some kids online made fun of his facial deformity."

people started to look at Eli, whispers spreading around the room. Eli hung his head down as he covered his scar, trying to avoid eye contact.

Athena looked at the boy and held his shoulder softly in a way of comfort. "But today, our goal here is to make this school a safe space for all students." Counselor Blatt sent a smile to the room of bored teenagers.

Athena scoffed at the woman. "safe space? I wouldn't be surprised if a riot broke out, it's bound to happen sooner or later." She crossed her arms, readjusting her seat.

"if you're sick of getting bullied, My karate dojo is looking for recruits." Miguel said, turning to the table. "Yeah, right. You hear that, Eli?" Demetri said, catching Eli's attention.

"a little karate training, and you're going to kick some major ass." He said, imitating karate chops with his hands.

"I'm serious, Demetri." Miguel placed his elbow on the table, looking at the boy. "My sensei's the real deal, I'm sure I can get you all discounts."

"as enticing as that sounds, I think we'd rather spend our afternoons playing crucible control than getting hit in the face." Demetri said to Miguel, who had a defeated look on his face.

"don't bother, Miguel. they never want to spar with me either." Athena told him. "don't blame me! i don't know crap about karate, you'd just use me as a personal punching bag." Demetri exclaimed to the girl, who just smirked in response.

"you do karate?" Miguel asked, a happier expression replaced his previously dull one.

"mostly defense." Athena shrugged. "what's your dojo called? I'm sure my little brother would want to sign up." She asked, making the boy quickly reply. "It's called Cobra Kai. I can text you the address."

"one last thing." Counselor Blatt spoke up, catching the group's attention. "while we're all looking forward to the halloween dance, Let's make sure our costumes are culturally sensitive."

"For example, instead of 'sexy nurse', maybe try 'gender-neutral hospital employee'." She said in a positive tone, making the students laugh at her.