At that moment, a pause was announced, and the host walked to the center of the mat, saying: "Yes, a round of applause for all the competitors—every one of them deserves recognition for these incredible matches!"
"We've witnessed great battles today, but now we've reached the end of the qualifiers for the Round of 16. I'd like to give you a closer look at the martial arts schools we'll be seeing in the coming days."
"From the male division with the most participants, we have Cobra Kai, a dojo that, like a phoenix rising from the ashes, has managed to secure a spot in the finals alongside girls from the female division."
The audience cheered as they recognized two finalists from the same dojo, recalling the storied past of this martial arts school that now seemed to be on the right path.
"We also have Topanga Karate, which, despite losing star participants today, still has strong contenders, especially the All Valley Karate Tournament Champion of 2017, who seems stronger than ever."
Max, who had joined his friends to celebrate, glanced toward the Topanga group, recognizing them as formidable rivals to beat—but not the most important ones.
"The next dojo is Miyagi-Do Karate, which, despite having only two practitioners competing, should inspire hope. After all, this dojo's sensitivity with just one student led to back-to-back victories in this same tournament years ago."
Daniel looked at Max with complex emotions. Seeing him now at Cobra Kai, after everything he had endured, was more than enough to worry him.
"The matches will resume tomorrow behind closed doors. Only those who have purchased tickets to continue supporting martial arts will be able to watch the bouts."
…
Later that night, a few hours after the celebratory party for those advancing to the Round of 16, Max and his friends were unwinding with their favorite pastimes.
Max, for his part, was seated on the balcony of his room at the Cobra Kai facilities. Beside him was Devon, sipping a hot drink as they gazed at the stars.
"I guess the eliminations start tomorrow..."
The scent in the air carried a calming effect. The peace Max felt in that moment was something he deeply wished would never end. This was why he had begun to change.
Throughout this journey, he had achieved and experienced things he never thought possible. Losing it all again wasn't something he wanted to face.
He had friends, loved ones, and a family member who never reprimanded or discouraged him from his goals. After enduring so much pain, shedding tears, and sharing laughter, he no longer harbored illusions. This was reality—his own reality, granted to him.
"Do you still have troubles that haunt you?"
"A little, but I think I'm getting over them," Max replied, glancing at Devon, who was still watching the stars.
He had confided in her, sharing all his struggles. That persistent feeling of loneliness had completely disappeared, all thanks to Devon's quiet support.
He never imagined that what he truly needed was simply companionship—a friend to make him feel cared for and loved. Loneliness chills the heart and sours emotions, but here, surrounded by such wonderful people, that feeling seldom surfaced.
"Is fighting still helping you?"
"Although I use it for other purposes, it's been very helpful. I think I would've made a mistake if I had stepped away from martial arts." Max didn't regret returning to the fight.
"Yeah, I think so too..."
Max smiled and asked, "How about you? Talking only about myself makes me feel a bit selfish. Don't you want to share something now?"
"I'm still searching for the words to describe everything we've been living through together. I haven't figured out how to express how I feel..."
As Max watched the fireflies, he felt an inexplicable sense of peace while discussing these things. Hearing Devon's thoughts made him more aware of himself and the struggles others faced.
"I also don't think I can explain just how incredible all of this has been..." Max nodded in agreement.
Devon felt a deep calm sitting next to Max. It was then that she realized she was living a life that few could achieve in such a short time.
"I'm happy. Every breath I take, I'm truly grateful, and I want it to stay that way..."
"Tomorrow, let's dominate that tournament."
"We'll win."