Cobra Kai: Under the Cobra Emblem

It is often said that when you're eagerly anticipating something, sleep becomes impossible. But for Max, who had faced death, nervousness, fear, or the strange feeling of failing to meet his own expectations were the last things he felt in this life.

That's why, the day before, Max and the family they had formed at Cobra Kai celebrated with a small meal, enjoying grilled chicken, fish, pork, and a variety of treats they usually avoided while focusing on the tournament.

Earlier that day, Max, Ryan, and their other friends had traveled to several enjoyable spots to spend the morning. They had invited Mr. Johnny, but he declined, saying he had too much to think about.

Under the shade of a large tree, Max stood gazing at the sunset, feeling immensely grateful for the chance to avenge his parents. He didn't know if there would be consequences for his actions—something that might condemn him after death—but he was determined to savor every moment, regardless of what the future held.

Devon had noticed that ever since Max began mentioning the tournament, he had changed drastically. At first, she hadn't seen it, but as they spent more time together, she realized something was different. Over the past months, she had discovered that Max was acting entirely on his own terms, refusing to let anyone sway his resolve.

The Max she once knew had been disinterested in most things, rarely interacting with anyone in class. That had changed. Perhaps this transformation allowed her to talk to him comfortably. They shared many common interests, though their differences were something she appreciated.

The first time they argued for hours was over their favorite cinematic debate scenes. Max had chosen There Will Be Blood, while she went with Fargo. After a long discussion about which was superior, they ended up watching both films and agreeing that both scenes were brilliant.

"Isn't nature incredible? It's as gentle as a soft breeze and as devastating as a fight to the death... Have I ever told you why I push myself so hard in physical training?" Max turned to his friend and asked calmly.

"Besides testing your limits, is there something else you haven't told me?" Devon sat beside Max, curious about what he wanted to share.

Max held a flower in his hand and said, "Back when I couldn't do anything to save my parents, I felt weak—so weak that I vowed to train relentlessly, with vengeance as my sole purpose. Torturing myself for being powerless was my daily routine until a man taught me to channel my rage into a single focus."

"When I felt that weakness again, I asked myself: What do I want most? Like this fragile flower, all I desired was to see how strong I could become. After that, I decided to take Cobra Kai to a place it's never been before. I know the thorns of my past will remain behind me after the tournament I told you about, so don't worry about me."

As Max shared this altered version of his story to reveal a hidden part of himself to Devon, she smiled, feeling closer to him. She had discovered a new emotion after witnessing a fight for the first time. Now, on the eve of a tournament, it felt as though they were living in a fantasy tale.

"Hey, this isn't the time to get sentimental. Tomorrow, we'll kick everyone's butts—no exceptions, got it?" Devon sensed Max's slightly melancholic mood and shifted the conversation.

Standing up, Max nodded, looked at Devon, and said, "I'll win the men's trophy for you. I hope you dedicate the women's to me."

Devon smiled excitedly and said, "In victory and defeat, we'll always be together—as an inseparable team."

From a distance, their instructors observed how their students had formed more than just a purpose—they had built a family, one where the students felt united.

Now, regardless of who wanted to see them fail, it was clear they would have to work hard to break these bonds.

…

California, San Fernando Valley

All Valley Sports Arena

At the entrance of the newly designated tournament venue, banners for the 50th Annual Championship were displayed everywhere, celebrating the milestone year.

After the All Valley committee held its annual meeting to discuss the tournament's structure, Terry proposed a revolutionary change: dividing the competition into two divisions—male and female.

When news broke about the dual championships, many women practicing karate, who had never had the chance to compete, signed up to experience the thrill of a tournament held for over fifty years.

This inevitably attracted even more attention, as the idea of a women's division was unprecedented. The audience, mostly male, filled the venue.

From a high vantage point, Daniel LaRusso observed the packed arena and said, "I had a feeling this would be a good idea. Thanks to new sponsors and the introduction of dual championships, we've drawn a much larger crowd."

"I heard your daughter trains. Is she as skilled in karate as her father?"

Daniel smiled slightly at the question and replied, "She's stepped away from it. Right now, she's focused on school, so we won't see her competing this year."

"A shame. Hopefully, your son will make up for it in the future."

…

Cobra Kai Resting Room

"Alright, everyone, gather up." Johnny addressed his twenty selected students—the maximum allowed for a martial arts school to bring to the tournament.

Among the chosen were Devon, Miguel, Hawk, Aisha, Ryan, and Max, who had been silent the entire time.

Terry glanced at the selected students, but among them, he could only place his full trust in his nephew, Max.

"These are the preliminary matches. You gain nothing by revealing all your skills. Be discreet and quick, understood?"

"Yes, sensei!"

"And don't forget—enjoy the tournament." Terry added, fully focused on ensuring his students had fun and gained valuable experience.