Killer

5 years time skip : 

I was sitting cross-legged across from Sam on a wooden wheel floating on a pond. The setting was different from what we were used to. Years ago, Daniel had brought us to this new location, an old yard with a pond that was in terrible condition. Naturally, we had to clean it up. Child labor is truly underrated in 2012! Despite the hard work, I had to admit that the beauty of the Miyagi-Do dojo was mesmerizing. We trained for hours on end, pushing our limits and growing stronger with each session.

The most noticeable change was in our appearance. Both Sam and I had matured significantly, and our physiques had improved remarkably. We were meditating on the wheel, practicing our mindfulness. Sam wore a sports bra and black leggings, her hair cascading beautifully behind her. I was topless, proudly displaying my muscles, and wore only black shorts.

Daniel broke the silence, saying, "Congratulations! You managed to stay on the wheel for an hour." We opened our eyes and stood up. As if on cue, we looked at each other and suddenly dashed toward opposite sides of the wheel, leaping off and executing front flips, landing gracefully on our feet. Daniel smiled and remarked, "You have really grown." Sam returned the smile and said, "I wouldn't be at this level if it weren't for Killer joining us five years ago." The nickname "Killer" had been given to me by Sam after an unfortunate incident during training.

Flashback: A Few Months Ago

We were training on the wheel technique, completely soaked from our repeated failures. As we attempted it for what felt like the millionth time, Daniel interrupted, saying, "No, not like that! You have to find your balance and be aware of your teammate's presence." I retorted, "How the heck are we supposed to do that?" He replied, "Just focus," but we were cut off by the sound of us falling into the pond.

Climbing out of the water, I yelled in frustration. Fueled by anger, I ran and executed a double-legged kick against a wall. I struck the wall with all my strength, then flipped backward and landed on my feet. Turning away, I suddenly heard a loud crack and glanced back at the wall, which was now covered in fractures. Sam exclaimed, "OMG, you're a killer!" And from that moment on, the nickname stuck.

Later, Daniel pulled me aside, wearing an expression only a parent could muster. He said, "I know you have anger inside, but I want you to let it go. Don't let your emotions control you; you must be the one in control. Right now, close your eyes and relax." I followed his instructions. After a moment, he continued, "Stay focused. Breathe in, breathe out. Do you feel any better?" I murmured, "Yes, Sensei." He smiled and said, "Now let's go back." I grinned and followed him.

Present Day

Daniel announced, "Since you have learned the intermediate forms of Miyagi-Do, it's time for the advanced ones." He paused and added, "We are going to learn kata." Sam looked confused and asked, "What are kata, Sensei?"

Daniel explained, "Kata is a Japanese term that refers to detailed patterns of movements practiced either solo or in pairs. Karate kata consists of a specified series of various moves, including stepping and turning, all while striving to maintain perfect form. Mastering kata will help you understand your opponent's fighting style and identify patterns where you can insert your kata, allowing you to overpower your opponent by reacting faster than they expect."

"Cool! Let's do this!" Sam exclaimed, and we eagerly began learning different kata, incorporating them into our fighting styles.

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