𝑆 𝑇 𝑈 𝐶 𝐾

𝑏 𝑒 𝑡

"WELCOME,COMPETITORS, senseis, sponsors, and esteemed guests to Barcelona, this year's home of the world's greatest karate tournament, the Sekai Taikai." Gunther Braun, the host of the Sekai Taikai, spoke into the microphone, his voice booming through the arena and causing the crowd to erupt in cheers. "The Sekai Taikai boasts a rich and proud history..."

Silas let the rest of Gunther's words fade into the background as he found himself lost in his thoughts again.

His eyes roam around the massive arena, taking in the vibrant banners, the excited spectators, and the sheer magnitude of the event. He could hardly believe he was here, standing in the Sekai Taikai, ready to compete.

If someone had asked him a year ago—no, a month ago—if he saw himself here, his answer would have been a resounding no.

Despite all his training, he had always been sidelined, watching others take the spotlight, knowing deep down that he deserved to be up there.

Silas never thought he'd get another chance to fight, especially after the accident that nearly cost him his life and his ability to walk.

The memory of those dark days, filled with pain and uncertainty, flashed through his mind. But here he was, stronger than ever, ready to prove everyone wrong. The journey had been long and grueling, but every moment had led him to this point.

A sudden jab to his side snapped him out of his reverie. He looked up to see Tory, motioning for him to step forward. "He called for captains."

"Shit." Silas mumbles under his breath, quickly moving to take his place next to her. "My bad."

He reaches into the pocket of his Gi and pulled out the captain's headband. With careful precision, he tied it around his head, feeling a sense of pride and responsibility settle over him.

When he was done, Silas let his eyes run over his opponents, taking them in with a mix of determination and nerves. His gaze lingers on Sam and Robby, specifically Robby.

If it came down to it, the two were going to fight head-to-head. Silas really wanted to talk to Robby before anything else happened.

They needed to talk.

Robby had to know that no matter what, Silas loved him wholeheartedly. He wanted Miyagi-Do to understand that he didn't do it to betray them, but to help himself toward a brighter future and finally prove that he was worth something.

The weight of his intentions bore down on him, a mixture of hope and anxiety swirling in his chest.

"Captains, you will have the honor and privilege to compete in our televised tournament of champions." Gunther continues, his voice commanding attention. "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 then rally all the points your dojos have earned. The dojo with the most points wins the Sekai Taikai. Team events begin tomorrow. Each event counts..."

"How you feeling?" Tory asks, her voice barely above a whisper, slicing through Silas's thoughts.

At her question, Silas's eyes fell onto Robby again. "Like I need to talk to him."

"Understandable." Tory responds with a small shrug, her eyes flicking to Robby and back to Silas.

Silas shook his head amusingly, lightly chuckling under his breath. The tension was palpable, but he appreciated Tory's attempt to lighten the mood.

"But today, it's about enjoying our host city and making new friends. Or enemies." Gunther's words lingered in the air for a moment before he continues. "We have a field trip arranged for our competitors. 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!"