Iron Stride

Episode 36: The Truth About Iron Stride

Jaden stood under the dim light near the back gates, his fists clenched. The man in the dark jacket watched him carefully, like a hunter sizing up his prey.

"Iron Stride isn't what you think it is."

Jaden exhaled, his voice calm. "Then tell me what it is."

The man smirked. "A business."

Jaden's stomach tightened. "What kind of business?"

The man took a slow step closer. "The kind that decides who wins and who loses before the game even starts."

Jaden's blood ran cold.

"You think talent is enough?" The man chuckled. "This place isn't about skill. It's about connections. About deals. The players who go pro? They don't just earn it. They pay for it."

Jaden shook his head. "That's bullshit."

The man shrugged. "Is it? Tell me, Carter—how many great players have already been cut? Guys who could've made it, but didn't?"

Jaden didn't answer.

Because deep down, he had wondered the same thing.

The man smirked. "You don't have to believe me. But if you want to survive here? If you want to control your own fate?"

He reached into his pocket and pulled out another card.

This time, it had a name.

Felix Ward.

Jaden took the card, staring at the name.

The man's voice dropped lower.

"Call that number when you're ready to stop playing by their rules."

Then he walked away, leaving Jaden standing there, heart pounding.

This wasn't just a football academy anymore.

It was a rigged system.

And now?

Jaden had a choice.