The gym was packed, illuminated by white spotlights that cast an intense glow over the central mat. The flags of the competing dojos hung high above—among them, the Iron Dragons, with the white dragon on a dark green background, and the Cobra Kai, marked by the iconic symbol of the snake poised to strike. The air was heavy with anticipation and tension, as the sound of gongs and the murmur of the audience echoed through the space. In the left corner, Kovačević adjusted the black belt on her dark green gi. The dragon embroidery on her back seemed almost to come to life under the lights, as if ready to strike alongside her. Her eyes were fixed on her opponent, a tall Cobra Kai fighter in a black gi adorned with the yellow snake. He had a provocative smile on his face, typical of someone who underestimates their opponent.

Axel, her older brother, watched from the sidelines, arms crossed, conveying a silent pride mixed with the certainty that his sister wouldn't back down an inch. Further back, Sensei Wolf maintained a serious posture, but his gaze followed Kovačević with a different intensity—a concern mixed with admiration, something he would never admit aloud.

The referee called the two to the center. Silence fell over the arena.

"Fight!" he shouted.